There are plenty of winter trends to get excited about, but personally, it's always the more classic pieces that linger in my mind. A perfect-fitting pair of jeans, for example, or an artfully tailored blazer that looks like it should hang in a museum. And right now, there are seven items in particular which I've either worn non-stop or have eagerly added to my wish list.
Most trends are transient by nature, but some pieces have been in circulation for decades, making them a wise investment if you're planning on updating your wardrobe. We're more almost at the end of 2024, and a new season is on the horizon, so there's no better time to evaluate the gaps in your closet and add clothing and accessories which will make getting dressed easier—and more satisfying. Prioritising versatility and honing in on the styles you already wear a tonne is one way to ensure you always feel like the chicest version of yourself. For me, this means pressing pause on trends (however hard this may be) and making sure the foundations are in place first.
With that, the following seven categories are where I'll be focusing my shopping energy this season. I know that each will be a worthwhile purchase that I'll still wear in two, five and ten years' time. From the simple dress style I reach for daily to the fail-safe blouse that I always fall back on, take a look at the classic pieces below.
7 Classic Pieces to Add to Your Winter 2024 Wish List:
1. Silk Blouse
Style Notes: For dinner parties and date nights, a silk or satin blouse is an elegant option that can easily be chucked on with jeans. I already own one, but given how frequently I reach for it, I plan on picking up another soon.
Shop Silk Blouses:
Made from sustainably sourced silk.
Just add a black slip skirt and slingbacks.
Simple but oh-so classy.
This is the style I'm coveting most right now.
2. Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Wide-leg trousers are a staple in my wardrobe every single season. Now, there are so many iterations out there, from classic neutral styles to stripes and bold hues.
Shop Wide-Leg Trousers:
The ultimate wide legs.
The perfect affordable pair.
A slightly more relaxed version.
The Frankie Shop does tailoring so well.
3. Pearl-Adorned Jewellery
Style Notes: They say diamonds are forever, but I'm convinced pearls are just as enduring. Choker-style pearl necklaces are one of the most timeless trends of the year, alongside hoop earrings featuring this sophisticated stone.
Shop Pearl Jewellery:
A unique piece you'll cherish for years to come.
All our editors rate Zara's jewellery.
Everyday earrings.
This is basically a work of art.
4. Black Dress
Style Notes: Arguably the most versatile item you can own, the black dress is an autumn/winter staple we all keep coming back to. With the ability to be dressed down with ballet flats or trainers for casual days or up with mules or heeled boots for more formal events, this is a piece you won't regret investing in.
Shop Black Dresses:
This is at the top of my winter wishlist.
Midi dresses will never go out of style.
A versatile item that you can wear to the office or out with friends.
Add a leather jacket and knee-high boots and you're set for the winter.
5. Burgundy Bag
Style Notes: Bright red was the colour of 2023, but for winter 2024, burgundy has become an unexpected frontrunner. I was already planning to add a merlot- or ruby-hued bag to my collection, so this is music to my ears.
Shop Burgundy Bags:
Bottega Veneta bags are always worth the investment.
Large enough for all your essentials, and more.
Such an iconic shape.
The perfect on-the-go accessory.
6. Camel Trench
Style Notes: Camel trenches are the ideal layering piece thanks to their versatility. Make it work at the weekend with your leggings and trainers, layer it over a midi dress for an event, or take it with you on a night out. It always works!
Shop Camel Trenches:
You can't go wrong with a MaxMara trench.
Wear this over everything.
A gorgeous high-street number.
The lapels and sleeves on this coat are spectacular.
7. Longline Waistcoats
Style Notes: Waistcoats are timeless, but they're definitely having a moment right this year. For winter, wear yours over a turtleneck knit with jeans, like Anna, trousers or a skirt.
Shop Longline Waistcoats:
Aligne's waistcoats are iconic.
The perfect balance between classic and trend-led.
A camel shade will work hard in your capsule wardrobe.
Beige looks lovely with dark-wash denim or brights.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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