I'm a Fashion Expert—Here Are 30 Elevated Pieces Worth Buying This Winter

I've worked in the fashion industry as a stylist and editor for close to a decade, so I’d say by now I’m pretty confident in spotting a great wardrobe buy when I see one. Over the years, I’ve seen trends and cult items come and go, experimenting with some along the way. No doubt they were fun while they lasted, but these days, I’m much more about elevated pieces that I know will stand the test of time, whether that means pinpointing the most expensive-looking high-street finds or saving up for luxury pieces I truly love. Each season, I curate my ultimate wish list of classic items worth investing in and share it with you here. So, as we head into the depths of winter, keep scrolling to see my classic picks for the months (and years) ahead. 

I have to say I think winter is my favourite season of all. The crisp blue sky days, and the chance to wear all my beloved coats (I'm outerwear obsessed). Not to mention the festive period and all that comes with it. It’s also the season in which classic wardrobe pieces really shine. In summer it's all about pretty dresses and experimenting with brights, but I take so much comfort in returning to a neutral colour palette of browns, greys, creams and black in autumn and winter—it’s much more me. Not only do these tonal shades reflect the cosy feel of the season, but they also make your wardrobe work harder since they work as a capsule and can be layered up pretty effortlessly. 

Speaking of layers—they are, of course, the key to chic cold-weather dressing. And if you invest in good classic layering items like polo necks, blazers, jeans, coats and boots you'll be able to rewear them in different ways year after year, and through other seasons separately as well. That's why it’s often in winter that I end up investing the most in key buys because I have confidence I'll get my wear out of them over the years. 

This year, I’m especially taken by all the gorgeous wool coats around (I told you I'm a woman obsessed), and it might be finally time for me to invest in Totême's newly restocked fringed jacket before it sells out again. If it’s not that, then it will certainly be one of Raey's oversized numbers, which I continue to see on the best-dressed influencers year after year. For 2023, I'm also in the market for a new handbag—one that elevates all my outfits, and makes my high street pieces look expensive. I can't stop thinking about Loewe's Luna in particular—it's roomy yet sleek, and it's not been overexposed on my Instagram feed, so it won't date quickly. 

On the high street, everyone in the industry is talking about how great Arket's knitwear collection is (I can attest to the quality myself), and H&M's latest minimalist drop also has my full attention. As these affordable brands consciously lean into timeless style, I can tell you that team Who What Wear's saved folders continue to grow daily. 

Keep scrolling to see what else is on a fashion expert's wish list as we head into the new year. Of course, I won’t be buying all of this myself, but rest assured even just one of these items will add timeless value to your existing wardrobe. 

Shop My Autumn Wish List

Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week