I've always been one of those people who thrives in the colder months. Maybe it's the excuse to hibernate in knitwear, or maybe it's the way a great coat can do half the work of getting dressed. Either way, once the temperature drops, I start to look at my wardrobe differently, not in a "new season, new me" sort of way, but more in the sense of refining. Winter dressing is about texture, weight and tone: swapping crisp cotton for cashmere, suede for leather and rethinking layering so your outfit looks considered rather than bundled. That's what a capsule wardrobe really means to me: keeping only the pieces that make sense when it's cold outside and your outfit has to work hard.
When I'm building this edit, I always seem to end up on NET-A-PORTER. I like the ease of it, how the online retailer's selection has a kind of quiet authority. You don't have to scroll through hundreds of things to find The One; instead, the mix of established labels and newer names already feels edited for you. And there's something about the winter buys that feels particularly strong this year, with rich textures and sharp cuts, they're the sort of pieces that make sense for dinner plans but won't look out of place at 9 am on a Monday in the office. It's that balance between effort and ease that keeps me coming back.
This time around, I've narrowed my focus to five categories: classic coats, cosy knitwear, textured bags, staple shoes and tailored trousers, which in my opinion, are the foundations of any cold-weather wardrobe. Some of these pieces are investment buys (a seriously chic coat by The Row), whilst others are quiet upgrades, like an argyle knit, that will ensure your wardrobe feels current without starting from scratch. They also work with what you might already have—those trousers from last season, that knit you lived in last winter—because that's the real beauty of a capsule: everything connects. Below, find the pieces worth knowing about now.
Shop 5 Key Winter Capsule-Wardrobe Pieces from NET-A-PORTER:
1. Classic Coats
Style Notes: The coat is the first thing people see, so it should feel like an extension of your style, not an afterthought you grab on the way out. This season, I'm gravitating towards long, slightly structured shapes that make everyday outfits look deliberate. If you, too, want a strong coat that can instantly elevate denim and just as easily sit over tailoring, think minimal lines, quality fabrics and neutral tones you won't tire of.
Shop Coats:
The built-in scarf detailing means you can skip accessories and still look well-styled. I love this layered over monochrome looks; it adds just enough interest without tipping into statement territory.
A cosier, more tactile option. The shearling fur has that soft texture that looks even better with wear. I'd wear this open over relaxed trousers for an easy day look.
The silhouette is unmistakably Toteme: clean, structured and quietly confident. It sits beautifully over chunky knits without feeling bulky.
A true investment piece. This is one of those coats that makes everything underneath feel sharper.
2. Cosy Knitwear
Style Notes: If there's one category that defines my winter wardrobe, it's knitwear. I'm leaning into slightly slouchy shapes in elevated materials like cashmere, merino and soft alpaca for layers that feel indulgent but not precious. I've found that the best knits are the ones that work both under polished outerwear and on their own with denim.
Shop Knitwear:
The colour, the check pattern, the material—it's all perfection. A true "buy once, wear forever" piece.
Arch4's knits always feel effortless. This brown cardigan would look so good over a white tee or button-down, and the quality means it won't lose shape after a few wears.
Winter is argyle-knit season! This one from Our Legacy is just stunning.
CO does oversized knits so well. This one's relaxed but never sloppy, ideal for when you want to look like you've tried, but really, you've just rolled out of bed.
3. Do-It-All Bags
Style Notes: A great bag does more than carry your things; it anchors your outfit. This season, suede is having a moment again, but I'm also loving structured leather and smaller shapes that feel considered rather than trend-driven. Each of these can shift between day and night effortlessly.
Shop Bags:
The definition of quiet luxury. It's a forever accessory you can grab with any outfit, and it'll always look refined.
Now, this is a chic winter bag if ever I saw one. Just think of how elevated it'll look paired with a wool coat and tailored trousers.
Simple, structured and perfectly sized for everyday use. My sisters have the original Paddington bags, and the quality has held up impeccably, so I can't wait to join the club.
A more accessible option that looks far more expensive than it is. The muted, mole-hued leather gives it depth, and the shape works with everything.
4. Staple Shoes
Style Notes: Winter shoes are all about striking the balance between polish and comfort. I'm partial to loafers right now (especially penny loafers), but a Mary Jane worn with socks, or a sleek ankle boot, feels very current too. These are pairs that will outlast trends.
Shop Shoes:
Minimalist but strong. Paris Texas is the go-to boot brand for editors.
Still the best in the category, in my opinion. These are comfortable straight out of the box.
The polished buckle detail gives a nod to the ballet-flat revival. These look great with socks and cropped trousers—I've been wearing mine nonstop.
These boots are known to be super-comfortable thanks to their kitten heel, and are so versatile with everything from denim to tailoring.
5. Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Good trousers quietly make everything else in your outfit work. This winter, I'm opting for fuller shapes in wool and crepe blends that hold structure but still move with you. They're the perfect partner to oversized coats and neat knits alike.
Shop Trousers:
Corduroy trousers is a great shout for winter.
The drape is unreal. They sit beautifully on the waist and fall perfectly over loafers or boots.
Smart but not stiff. The pleat gives just enough shape without looking overly tailored.
I love the slightly slouchy fit; it reads relaxed but still put-together. A good balance if you don't want anything too severe.
