My Friend Asked Me How I Dress Chic When It's This Cold—These 7 Elegant Items Are the Secret

As I longingly await sunny jaunts, T-shirt weather and longer daylight hours, I still find myself waxing lyrical about the art of layering, chunky knitwear and everything faux fur. Suffice to say, dear reader, we are very much in the depths of cold-weather season, but before you recoil into your sweats, blankets and slippers, I'm here to show you how you can step out in style whilst staying warm, comfy and protected from the elements for the months ahead.

I detest the cold, and often have friends tapping me for tips on how to stay both warm and chic in equal measure. And, I can tell you that it can be done in unison. With clever hacks, investing in the right pieces and layering correctly, you can keep the biting winds and rain at bay, all while smartly improving and honing your hard-working capsule wardrobe.

My key takeaway for staying toasty in these (almost) Arctic-like temperatures is opting for naturally heat-holding fabrics like shearling, wool, merino and leather, which all hold back the cold and ensure your clothing retains the heat inside. Tech fabrics and fleece are specifically built to withstand biting cold, and so pieces in these materials make for great base layers and outerwear.

To withstand the super-cold months ahead, I've prepared a list of seven elegant pieces every discerning dresser should have in their arsenal. From classic wool coats to fleece-lined leggings, sturdy boots and cashmere knitwear, consider this your one-stop shop for looking cool but staying well insulated this season.

Scroll on for my edit and some inspiration from Instagram's most elite dressers. Stay warm out there!

Shop My 7 Key Pieces for a Cold-Weather Capsule Wardrobe:

1. Classic Wool Coat

Style Notes: Great outerwear is a non-negotiable in the cold. Coat trends come and go, but classic long, structured wool coats will never date. Camel coats have been at the forefront of fashion for decades, so they're an apt choice to invest in if you're looking for something to return to, season after season, without the fear of it feeling dated. Go for something a touch oversized in fit so it can comfortably layer over knitwear and thermals.

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2. V-Neck Cashmere Knitwear

Style Notes: Cashmere knitwear is a smart choice for cold weather days, as it just keeps the warmth in so expertly without overheating you. It also has such a luxurious look and feel that every other material pales in comparison. V-neck knits are what the cool girls are reaching for in 2026, so a cashmere V-neck is a no-brainer. Opt for a chunky iteration that sits a little higher on the décolletage, just like the style set has been wearing lately. Simple, chic and infinitely cosy.

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3. Wide-Leg Trousers

Style Notes: Remaining put-together, polished and cosy is easy when you're armed with a solid pair of wide-leg trousers. I say this because you can layer leggings, thermals or hosiery underneath for extra insulation if you so wish, without that feeling of tightness or constriction. They also drape beautifully over chunky boots and loafers, giving your legs and ankles the coverage they need against the cold, wind or rain.

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4. Faux-Fur Scarves

Style Notes: I've been noticing an uptick in all things shearling, faux fur, and fuzzy over the past few months, but the biggest trend I've spotted on the style set is scarves made from tactile fabrics. Faux-fur scarves keep the bitter chill from reaching your neck, and these accessories add a luxurious touch to your ensembles, elegantly sitting atop wool coats and cashmere knitwear. Chocolate brown and neutral tones seem to be the hues of choice amongst fashion people, as they add a timeless, wealth-whispering appeal.

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5. Thermal Leggings

Style Notes: Leggings will always be a staple item in any capsule wardrobe, but to level them up for frosty days, thermal or fleece-lined pairs are my go-tos. You can wear them under trousers or even team them with oversized knitwear, wool blazers or faux-fur coats for that off-duty, just-got-back-from-the-Alps look. Leather knee-high boots pair with them flawlessly, too.

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6. Cosy Hats

Style Notes: Now, this trend is so up my alley. Fluffy headgear has been spotted on almost every stylish Londoner this season, and I, for one, have jumped on the bandwagon. These hats add a rich texture to your look and really do trap in the heat, which is essential for when you dare to step outdoors. I've been eyeing up vintage styles, classic colours and natural fabrics that team with my pared-back wardrobe—just how I like it.

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7. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: So, you want to wear a skirt, leggings or tailored shorts in winter? Best be prepared with a practical pair of knee-high boots, preferably in black leather. They'll retain the warmth in your feet, legs and ankles, and when paired with leggings, tights or wool socks, you'll no doubt be doubly protected from the cold. Look for styles with a rubber or lug sole, so you won't go skidding on the ice or snow!

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