In case you just realized that it's almost November and the need to find a new pair of boots is getting more urgent by the day, step into my office. Fact: A great pair of boots is the key to a great fall and winter outfit. And there's one flat-boot trend in particular that'll upgrade any outfit and make it look especially fresh this season. The trend is soft-leather flat ankle boots, and every fashion person I know has it on their radar right now.

Given the enormous popularity of soft-leather ballet flats and glove pumps this year, it's hardly surprising that boots are next. The current iterations on the market call to mind sock boots, but the latest versions are made of leather or suede, and they aren't quite as foot-hugging as typical sock boots. The options I'm seeing have a sleek, minimal vibe, and they look chic with both cropped and full-length (or even puddle-length) jeans and pants.

The bottom line is that soft-leather flat ankle boots is the boot trend of the season thus far, and placing an order now is a decision you won't regret. Keep scrolling to shop my picks.

Shop Soft-Leather Flat Ankle Boots

Anyone who knows me well knows I hate being cold, and I live in New York… I have a very low tolerance for the winter, and for many years I almost acted in denial of it. But in the last few years, I decided to take my winter dressing more seriously, finally getting a warm wool coat, a pair of proper boots, and thermal layers.

This winter, I'm looking to expand my cold-weather essentials with accessories and more variation in coats—chic, neutral ones; statement, fun ones; and functional ones. I recently got a new wool coat from Rue Sophie; I'd love a faux fur coat to add into the mix, such as the Blair from Apparis; and I've also been eyeing a vintage Isabel Marant puffer or Paloma Wool's Pruit.

As for accessories, my wish list includes scarf, leather gloves, cashmere gloves, a balaclava, and earmuffs. I also finally caved and got my first pair of adult Uggs last winter, which won me over and made me want another pair. Ahead, get ready for winter ahead of time with 9 items to brave the cold.

Scarves

Gloves

Balaclavas

Ear Muffs

Uggs

Wool Coats

Faux Fur Coats

Puffer Coats

Thermal Layers

When it comes to shopping for winter staples on the high street, we've all probably felt the frustration of trying to hunt down elegant, expensive-looking items that don't break the bank. With temperatures dropping, there's a lot to contend with as we put together our winter outfits, but there's one particular high-street hero that does premium-looking winter basics that exude all the elegance of designer buys. Enter Zara’s winter basics collection.

You see, as someone with luxury taste on a very modest budget, I’m extremely particular about investing in my cold-weather staples, but time and time again Zara focuses on creating refined-looking items at accessible price points that also manage to stand the test of time in your wardrobe. From timeless designs that will never go out of style to those slightly trendier silhouettes and colours that feel fresh for 2026, Zara’s current winter basics selection is filled with new-in buys that could easily pass as triple their price tag. But the best part? Each and every piece sits well below the £150 mark that you’d usually find yourself paying for high-end staples.

Now, I'll be honest: the sheer number of items on the website can feel extremely overwhelming, so I decided to narrow my search down to nine stand-out pieces from the brand that will bolster my winter capsule wardrobe. So if you too are looking to add to your elegant but elevated basics collection ahead of winter 2026, keep scrolling to discover the nine designer-passing Zara buys that I’m considering investing in.

9 Zara Winter Basics That Will Be Gone Before November

Shop More Zara Winter Basics We Love

It feels as though overnight we've stepped out of autumn and straight into winter. With every seasonal shift, our wardrobes need to adjust, especially when the coming days bring dropping temperatures. Winter demands that we find a balance of style and warmth, and with dark mornings rolling in, the idea of putting together outfits each day can feel a little tedious. Thankfully, there's a simple answer: great basics. A series of sleek pieces that can be quickly thrown together and instantly create polished outfits you'll be excited to wear, and every winter I find myself depending on these nine winter basics.

The brilliance of basics is in their reliability. Set apart from the trend cycle, these are the kinds of pieces that feel like worthwhile investments at any point in the season, whether you're working on a budget or ready to invest in your forever wardrobe. With warmth front of mind right now, I'm looking to basics with quality compositions, with sumptuous cashmere knits, wool coats and cosy gloves and accessories bringing a warm infusion to elegant looks.

Looking to the most stylish people around, there are nine basics that will make winter dressing simpler as well as seriously elegant. There's the classic coat that can be thrown over any outfit and look sleek, whether it's a carefully composed tailored look or a relaxed jeans and jumper outfit. If there's any time to consider your knitwear collection, it's right now. A great cashmere knit can be a worthwhile investment, as you know you'll call upon it every single year. Alongside, there are year-round staples that can be restyled throughout the different seasons, from great denim to classic shirts that can be layered up now or worn loosely over swimwear in the summer months. Whether you're updating your work looks or simply bringing a touch of polish to your weekend attire, these are the elevated winter basics that will make cold-weather dressing easy, cosy and chic.

1. The Classic Coat

2. The Cashmere Knit

3. The Dark Wash Denim

4. The Winter Boots

5. The Merino Top

6. The Tailored Trousers

7. The Everyday Bag

8. The Staple Loafer

9. The Final Touches

I'm not trying to brag, but I get a lot of compliments on my winter outfits. To me, there's an easy elegance to cold-weather styling, and as someone who works in fashion, I'm often asked for advice on building the perfect capsule for polished winter dressing that feels effortless. Of course, every wardrobe edit needs its slightly “trendier” pieces, and even as a minimalist, I like to dip my toes into trends now and then to add interest to my looks. However, I’ll forever be a classic dresser at my core, and whilst it's all well and good to hop on the latest fad, the most put-together collections are built on those ageless staples that can be relied upon time after time.

Most recently, some of the women in my life wanted my help curating a winter capsule wardrobe that's versatile, easy to throw on and timeless enough to stand the test of time. And after a quick browse of my saved folder on Instagram, I was able to create an easy but chic winter wardrobe that feels fresh for 2026 but remains classic enough to wear on repeat for years to come. Think elevated basics that can be dressed up and down with ease, mixed and matched to create a wide range of looks and, most importantly, will never look tired.

The best part? I'm sharing the exact edit below—shopping links and all! So if you, too, are in the mood for an elegant wardrobe refresh for the new season, keep scrolling to discover my seven-piece winter capsule wardrobe. From designer outerwear investments you’ll reach for year after year to affordable accessories that look way more expensive than their high-street price tag, below you’ll find the staples that will see you through the rest of 2026 (and way beyond).

I Just Built a Polished Winter Capsule Wardrobe With These 7 Staples

1. Boxy Wool Coat

Style Notes: I’ve spent this unusually long autumn longing for the days when my heavier outerwear styles can act as the focal points of my outfits, and for winter 2026, there’s nothing that will bring instant polish like a boxy wool coat. Not only is this more tailored silhouette a proportional dream, bringing definition to an outfit, but the sharp shoulders will look considered and intentional, even when paired with the most casual of staples. Personally? I’ll be using this all-round excellent outerwear style to dress up my jeans and relaxed jumpers for the office.

Shop the Staple:

2. Crew-Neck Jumper

Style Notes: No knit feels quite as versatile as a crew-neck jumper. The rounded shape helps to balance out shoulder width without making, plus this smooth neckline fits seamlessly under coats, jackets and blazers. Not to mention, they can be dressed up and down for any occasion with ease, from pairing well with jeans and ballet pumps for the day to a slip skirt and knee-high boots for an evening out with friends. Of course, you can find expensive-looking iterations at every price point; however, to keep your outfits looking polished, prioritise natural fibres and muted hues.

Shop the Staple:

3. Straight Jeans

Style Notes: I was very grateful for my linen and cotton trousers earlier in the year, but as soon as temperatures started to drop, I packed them away to make room for my trusty denim. Comfortable, easy to style and timeless, a pair of jeans has a place in my capsule wardrobe no matter the time of year. My silhouette of choice for winter 2026? Elegant straight and stovepipe cuts that feel smart enough for the office and also bring that ‘90s edge that I love. And the best part is that this staple looks expensive at any price point, from budget-friendly H&M buys that can easily pass as designer to investments from Khaite and Saint Laurent that you’ll keep forever.

Shop the Staple:

4. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: Boot season is finally here! And the first pair I'll be reaching for is sleek knee-highs that practically create my outfit for me. Heels or flats, leather or suede or croc, I know I'm going to live in this footwear staple from now until next spring. Not only will they look extremely chic with a pair of leggings or straight-leg jeans tucked into them, but they’ll also bring a sense of comfort when I’m wearing a miniskirt and want slightly more coverage. The gorgeous burgundy Jimmy Choo pair below has been on my wish list for years now, but there are also plenty of more affordable options that I currently have my eye on.

Shop the Staple:

5. Bowling Bag

Style Notes: If you appreciate a good handbag as much as I do, you probably agree that the right bag has the power to completely change your outfit. And after hours of browsing the feeds of my favourite fashion influencers, it turns out the trending silhouette for winter 2026 is not actually new by any means, but rather the classic bowling bags that have dominated the wardrobes of chic dressers for years. It’s timeless, elegant, and roomy enough to fit all of my essentials. To keep your outfit looking expensive, stick to natural materials like leather and suede, as well as neutral hues that won’t date.

Shop the Staple:

6. Pleated Skirt

Style Notes: When jeans feel a little too casual, I always reach for a midi skirt, and pleated iterations in particular have found their way back into the wardrobes of elegant dressers for winter 2026. Gone are the days when this preppy style was considered "dated"; now, pleated skirts are very much appreciated for their ability to bring an instant sense of polish to an outfit, pairing well with boots, heels and loafers alike. They’re sleek and polished, and the length sits well within my comfort zone as someone who tends to stick to the more modest side of dressing.

Shop the Staple:

7. Fringe Scarf

Style Notes: Every capsule wardrobe needs at least one trend-led item to keep things feeling fresh and current, and for winter 2026, I’m all about the fringe scarf. A statement accessory that somehow also manages to feel inherently sophisticated, a fringe scarf will look good draped around the neck or waist this season. It’s the perfect staple for minimalists, bringing texture and movement to an otherwise pared-back outfit without the need for the bold colours or busy patterns that feel a little too out there for pared-back dressers like me. Not to mention, it gives a subtle nod to the "opera dressing" aesthetic that’s set to dominate this season.

Shop the Staple:

It's almost November, and that means goodbye for now, bare legs. Pants are waiting in the wings, and it's becoming increasingly clear that the style Kristen Bell just wore while doing press for Nobody Wants This season 3 in NYC is *the* pant trend of winter 2026. (Disclaimer: Bell was technically wearing a chocolate brown jumpsuit, but as you'll see, it was styled as though she were wearing pants for her arrival at the Empire State Building for an appearance.)

The pant trend in question is a bit dramatic (in a good way), and it's best paired with heels, for maximum effectiveness. The style is sash pants, which are basically trousers with a long scarf belt attached. You'll want to wear it with something that ensures the belt is visible, such as Bell's leather bomber jacket. The heels Bell went with were a perfectly chosen pair of chocolate brown satin pumps. And I have no notes.

Keep scrolling to shop Bell's look and a handful of sash pants to wear with heels this winter.

The Trend on Kristen Bell

On Kristen Bell: Elie Saab jumpsuit; FoundRae jewelry

Get the Look

Shop More Sash Pants

Every morning, I scour the new arrivals at all my favorite retailers, and this week, I've been particularly captivated by the latest lineup from Shopbop. Its fall and winter pieces have been rolling in, and I find myself getting excited for upcoming holiday parties and cozy winter outings bundled up in sumptuous sweaters and gorgeous overcoats—all thanks to the retailer's chic and fashion-forward offerings.

After scrolling the new-in pieces for an entire morning, I'm sharing the absolute chicest winter pieces that instantly say *It girl.* Below, you'll find a list of pieces that any chic fashion person would approve of, from opulent outerwear and accessories to must-have color trends and elevated cold-weather staples. Keep scrolling to get ready for the upcoming holiday and winter season in style.

My friends have joked that I'm a "fake Gen Zer" despite being born in 1995. Admittedly, they're not wrong. I'm always in tune with what's happening among 20-somethings, watching the same shows and listening to the same music. Yes, I'm obsessed with Sterling Point and Olivia Rodrigo. I'm equally fascinated by Gen Z fashion, specifically the trends they're adopting. Most recently on my radar? Winter's buzziest silhouettes. Sure, I may be a millennial, but that's not stopping me from trying a few of these looks on for size.

Honestly, many influencers I follow for fashion inspiration fall into the Gen Z camp. Think Ruby Lyn, Hadley Greene, and Lucy McFadin. After taking a quick scroll through their profiles and others, I have a pretty good idea of which cold-weather trends will be a hit among this age group. But I have a feeling they'll resonate with other generations too, or at least, that's what I'm telling myself.

Without further ado, check out six winter trends endorsed by Gen Z fashion people.

Military Jackets

For millennials, military jackets are by no means new, having been a sought-after staple in the early aughts. (Even Beyoncé was a fan.) Gen Z, though, is likely trying the trend for the first time. Rather than pairing the outerwear with 2000s-inspired skinny jeans, the Gen Z style set is opting for baggy denim. I'm so on board.

Shop Military Jackets

Leather Pants

Most of us own a leather jacket, but how about leather pants? Sure, the bottoms may have a rock 'n' roll reputation, but Gen Z fashion people are taking them in a more polished direction this winter. Up top, a silk cami or crisp white button-down softens the edgy silhouette.

Shop Leather Pants

Faux-Fur Scarves

From what I've observed, Gen Zers tend to be practical dressers, often prioritizing comfort. As such, it's no surprise 20-somethings are keeping warm in style this winter. Enter faux-fur scarves. Whether in classic black or rich brown, the accent strikes the perfect balance between functional and fashion-forward.

Shop Faux-Fur Scarves

Flannel Tops

In high school, I had quite the collection of flannels from Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch. Though I don't think I've owned one since, I'm now tempted to welcome the cozy shirt back into my wardrobe thanks to Gen Z's newfound affinity for the checkered shirt.

Shop Flannel Tops

Camo Print

Suddenly, I'm spotting camo print everywhere, including on the feeds of my favorite Gen Z influencers. A jacket in the utilitarian pattern makes perfect sense for chilly weather, but don't sleep on camo pants, either. They're sure to get just as much wear.

Shop Camo Pieces

Slouchy Boots

The slouchier, the better seems to be the motto among Gen Zers. Many are gravitating toward suede designs, though leather slouchy boots are equally chic. When the weather is unbearably cold, tuck your pants into the roomy shoes for a cozy, effortlessly cool look.

Shop Slouchy Boots

It felt like skirts were on the back burner for a minute there, but if you love them as much as I do, then I come bearing good news: spring/summer 2027 runways have spoken, and skirts are officially back in the fashion zeitgeist! The likes of Prada, Chanel, Miu Miu and Tommy Hilfiger all showcased several skirt trends set to dominate next season, and trust me when I say they’ll all make you want to pack away your jeans, shorts and tailored trousers to make room for these pretty styles.

As someone who works in fashion (and takes their work seriously), I’ve made it my goal to get ahead of the pack and incorporate these chic skirt trends into my winter 2026 outfits. Of course, it’s too chilly to pair them with the open-toe heels and sandals spotted on the runway, so I decided to hunt for cool boot styles that pair well with them until the temperatures rise. And after hours of scrolling Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok, I managed to narrow it down to six ultra-sleek skirt-and-boot combinations to wear now and well into next season.

And the best part? I’ve rounded them up for you below. From classic black skirts worn with cool biker boots to give them some edge to preppy pleated midi skirts refined by minimalist sock boots, keep scrolling to discover the six skirt-and-boot outfit ideas to copy this winter. And rest assured: these pairings will put you firmly ahead of the pack, well before the skirt trends become big fashion players next spring/summer.

1. Pleated Skirt + Sock Boots

Style Notes: If you were savvy enough to hang onto your pleated midi skirts, even through the many years they were considered "dated", congratulations! This preppy trend is officially back for spring/summer 2027. Now, we all probably know that this elegant skirt style pairs well with pared-back shoes such as ballet flats and loafers, but if you really want to make yours look sleek this winter, look no further than the minimal leather sock boots. Not only are they a proportional dream when contrasted against the A-line silhouette of the pleated midi, but their refined nature will keep your outfits looking neat and polished no matter the price point you invest in.

Shop the Pairing:

2. White Skirt + Black Boots

Style Notes: Contrary to popular belief, white skirts are not just for spring and summer. It’s true; they do come into their own throughout the warmer months; however, there’s something that feels particularly fresh when worn with the darker palette we really lean on throughout autumn and winter. And the best boot style to pair them with? Classic black iterations, of course! This contrasting pairing comes with the unexpected appeal associated with an elevated outfit, but the two neutral hues remain wearable and well within the comfort zone of a minimalist like me.

Shop the Pairing:

3. Miniskirt + Riding Boots

Style Notes: I have to admit: miniskirts have always felt very hit or miss to me, someone who tends to stick to the more modest side of dressing. However, for winter 2026, I’ll be wearing the trusty shoe style that chic dressers have been relying on for years: riding boots. Of course, this pairing is not technically new, but it’s a foolproof combination that works every time, not only providing me with the coverage I prefer but also tapping into the "equestrian-chic" aesthetics that keep my winter outfits looking elegant and expensive.

Shop the Pairing:

4. Wrap Skirt + Chunky Boots

Style Notes: With the ability to be dressed up or down with ease, if you don’t already own a wrap skirt, I’d highly recommend investing in one. Whilst linen and cotton fabrics come into their own when it's warm, until then you cannot go wrong with a thicker wool or jersey iteration that will keep you cosy from now until next spring. And the ideal boot to pair them with? A chunky style that will give this more refined silhouette an elevated touch. They’ll not only look incredibly considered when worn together, but the chunkier sole is a stylish way to ensure your feet are comfortable all day long.

Shop the Pairing:

5. Check Skirt + Brown Boots

Style Notes: Typically a print we see throughout autumn/winter, I was shocked by the sheer amount of check and plaid skirts I spotted on the S/S 27 runways. Of course, as someone who very much leans into the dark academia aesthetic throughout the chiller months, I’m not in any way complaining, and I’ll be taking a cue from chic dressers and styling them with warm espresso-brown hues as a less harsh but no less versatile alternative to the black shoes I typically reach for around this time of year.

Shop the Pairing:

6. Black Skirt + Biker Boots

Style Notes: Timeless, versatile and so easy to style, black skirts aren't really a trend, but they are a staple that you’ll find on the runway year-round. And when the fashion girls want to give them some edge, they use cool biker boots to make their winter outfits look slightly more elevated. The perfect balance between a little edgy and extremely wearable, biker boots bring just the right amount of attitude to a classic black skirt.

Shop the Pairing:

Don't come for me but, as much as I love a good pair of boots, I do start to tire of wearing them on repeat once winter rolls around. The solution? A chic pair of flats to break up the inevitable monotony.

There's something about a great flat shoe that makes an outfit feel a little fresher, offering a welcome alternative to the knee-highs and ankle boots we'll be living in for the next six months. The trouble is, most flats aren't exactly designed for a British winter (or, frankly, any winter that requires you to leave the house). Which is where shearling loafers come in.

Loafers have long been a fashion-person favourite, and it's not hard to see why. They're polished without being overly formal, have a little more structure than your average ballet flat and somehow make even the most basic jeans-and-knitwear combination look like you've put some thought into getting dressed. A high priority in the months where you'd rather be hibernating. They're also remarkably versatile, working just as well with wide-leg trousers as they do with mini skirts. In other words, they've well and truly earned their place in the capsule wardrobe hall of fame.

But with colder weather on the horizon, stylish types are giving this tried-and-tested silhouette a cosy upgrade. And, honestly, I'm all for it. There was a time when I'd happily head out on a Saturday night in the highest heels I could find and absolutely no coat, apparently under the impression that being cold was simply part of the experience. Thankfully, I've grown out of that particular fashion phase. These days, I'd much rather find a way to dress appropriately for the weather without sacrificing the outfit, and shearling-lined loafers feel like a rather clever compromise. Warm toes and good taste? Turns out you really can have it all.

Gucci's Princetown backless shearling-lined loafers were a standout in the 2010s, and I've spotted that style cropping up again recently. But this time around, the trend has spread well beyond one designer's interpretation, with everyone from Chanel and The Row to Prada, UGG and Zara getting in on the action. I've learned that when a shoe idea makes sense at both the luxury end of the market and the high street, it's probably worth paying attention.

The colour palette is pleasingly understated, too. Alongside classic black and rich cappuccino brown, I'm seeing plenty of tan leather paired with cream shearling, which creates a particularly stylish contrast. Sandy neutrals, beige and the slightest hint of butter yellow are also making an appearance, lending the shoes a softer, luxury-looking finish. There's a mix of suede and leather, too, while the choice between backless styles that show off the fluffy lining and full-coverage loafers really comes down to personal preference (and just how committed you are to keeping your feet warm).

Either way, it's a trend that makes a convincing case for putting your boots to one side every now and then. With that, scroll on to shop my edit of the chicest shearling loafers around.

Shop the Shearling Loafers Trend

After an unusually warm autumn here in the UK, I can't wait for winter to fully kick into gear. This is because I'm someone who takes cold-weather dressing very seriously—so much so that my search for the most polished winter capsule staples is already underway. The top of my priority list? Finding a polished and expensive-looking jumper that I can rely on day after day without having to splurge hundreds of pounds. You see, despite having high-end taste on a very modest high-street budget, I hate looking scruffy, and I think we all probably know by now that a knit can make or break an outfit.

Well, luckily for me (and now you), I recently purchased a jumper on the high street that could genuinely pass as designer, and sitting under the £100 price mark, it isn't completely unattainable, either. Enter COS’ Rounded Wool Crew-Neck Jumper.

Made from 100% wool, available in sizes XS (UK 4) to XL (UK 18) and with five versatile colours to choose from, COS’ Rounded Wool Crew-Neck Jumper might be my first purchase of the season, but it’s already set to be the smartest investment I make this winter.

With a slouchy, relaxed fit that feels effortlessly chic and laid-back, as well as a versatile rounded neckline, this is the type of knit that can easily be dressed up or down for a wide range of occasions. I invested in the black hue, and the styling possibilities are truly endless. I’ve already worn it with a pair of black barrel-leg trousers and animal-print accessories to the office as well as with a polka-dot slip skirt and kitten heels for a dinner date. Not to mention that its natural fibre composition means that it’s not only biodegradable but durable, ensuring it will last in my autumn/winter 2026 capsule for a significantly longer time than synthetic knitwear.

And the price? At £95, I appreciate you can find more affordable jumpers on the high street; however, for a versatile piece that you'll wear from now to well into early spring for many years to come, as well as the 100% wool composition, I personally think this jumper is well worth the money and genuinely rivals some luxury finds in this aspect.

Keep scrolling to see and shop COS’ Rounded Wool Crew-Neck Jumper for yourself, and then browse some more designer-passing COS jumpers I currently have my eye on.

Shop COS' Rounded Wool Crew-Neck Jumper

Shop More COS Jumpers I Have My Eye On

We've officially entered cold-weather territory. I've been contemplating what pieces to add to my wardrobe to get me through the chillier seasons ahead. Well, if your goal is also to look elevated this fall and winter, you've landed in the perfect place. I've done my shopping-editor due diligence and combed through the latest arrivals at top retailer hot spots—COS, Shopbop, and Zara—so you do not have to.

Yes, you've read that correctly. You can expect the latest and greatest shopping picks worth adding to your cart expeditiously. In the mix, you'll find a variety of sophisticated-looking jackets, coats, sweaters, and more that'll give you an overall elevated appearance. Keep scrolling to uncover these luxe-looking finds ahead.

Shop COS New Arrivals

You can count on COS for a range of elegant pieces to carry you through the fall and winter. I'm partial to its famous chunky sweaters, but the Scarf Jacket and Croc-Effect Leather Loafers are perfect pieces to add to your wardrobe too.

Shop Shopbop New Arrivals

Shopbop is not messing around with these latest additions. If you want boots that'll make people stop you in the street, the perfect dark-wash jeans, or chic dresses, look no further.

Shop Zara New Arrivals

If your budget is $100, then try these Zara clothing picks. I've also thrown in a few footwear styles that are all under $200 that you'll surely wear for many months to come.