6 No-Brainer Winter Outfit Ideas for When You "Have Nothing to Wear"

I can't be the only one who feels this way, but I hate opening my overflowing closet and thinking I have nothing to wear. Not only does it make me feel like I've wasted a lot of money, but it also makes me late as I stare blankly at my clothes, unsure of what to put on.

Over the years, I've been working on ways to feel this way less, specifically focusing on two new habits. One is making sure I only buy high-quality, timeless pieces that aren't trend-dependent and don't feel "boring" after being worn only twice. The other is bookmarking chic, timeless outfits from fashion influencers I follow. For the latter, it lets me keep a folder of outfit ideas to look back on whenever I need outfit inspiration.

It may not be officially winter yet, but the temperatures are dropping on both sides of the Atlantic, and It girls are already showcasing their elevated winter outfits. So I've been curating a selection of looks I want to re-create this winter, and I'm sharing them with you below. Keep scrolling to see the polished ensembles and shop the winter essentials along the way.

If you want to look expensive with minimal effort this winter, choose a black-and-white outfit. You can opt for something as dressy as a black maxi dress with black knee-high boots and a white long coat, or as easy as a white T-shirt, black wool coat, black jeans, and black ankle boots, as shown here. For the simpler option, the key to making your outfit look elegant and fresh is to pick a long coat with drop or padded shoulders for a nice shape, slim-fitting jeans in either stovepipe, straight-leg, or cigarette styles—trending silhouettes for 2025—and boots with a pointed toe for a sleek and polished look. Bonus points if you accessorize with a brown leather bag from The Row, just like fashion influencer Anouk did.

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If you experience jean or trouser fatigue, there's no need to panic—grab your favorite maxi skirt and style it with tights, slingback kitten heels, and an oversize knit. This cold-weather season has seen an increase in high-V-neck styles and crewnecks with a chunky, ribbed collar among chic dressers. As far as accessories? Finish your look with dainty earrings and a polished handbag, like a croc-effect clutch. This type of look can take you from the office to a work cocktail party.

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I always remind myself that looking stylish in winter doesn't require owning the latest designer items or wearing statement pieces. This simple outfit—turtleneck, jeans, and heels—illustrates that. On the surface, it appears straightforward, but a closer look reveals why it stands out—primarily the dark-wash jeans, which are the leading denim trend for 2025 and 2026. An extra detail worth noting is the vanity case bag Sylvie paired with her ensemble, adding a touch of sophistication to the casual denim.

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Black trousers are timeless, but this winter, those in the know are opting for tailored khaki pants. This subtle, wealth-evoking tone has an understated feel that elevates any look and is highly versatile. It pairs perfectly with neutrals like chocolate brown and black, which ground it, but also with shades like cherry red, cerulean blue, and pale pink. So come December, pair yours with any of your elevated wardrobe staples, such as a belted coat, a knit top, and a leather belt.

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Sometimes in winter, an unexpectedly warm day can catch you off guard—don't panic, but enjoy it by wearing a cute outfit that doesn't need a heavy coat. Follow content creator Abi's example: layer a chunky cardigan over a turtleneck sweater and pair it with black trousers and brown suede loafers.

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At Who What Wear, we've discussed how a chic coat can be your outfit. However, another winter staple that can make a look is a scarf. Whether it's a faux-fur scarf, which fashion people everywhere are obsessed with right now, a chunky plaid design, or a beautiful cashmere style, the impact a scarf has on a winter outfit is undeniable. As seen here, it doesn't matter what jeans or top content creator Nnenna is wearing because my eyes are drawn directly to the scarf and how it complements the coat.

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