If, like me, you've been reading Who What Wear religiously for the past decade, then you know that nothing is boring about great basics. Just a bit shy of "uniform dressing," without committing completely to a capsule wardrobe, a closet full of just a few winter basics is all that's needed to get through the season in style.
That's not to say you need to wear them all at once—in fact, we suggest mixing at matching these key winter basics with whatever you already have on hand. That's the point, right? Great basics go with everything and can be worn regularly without compromising your personal style.
This season, we recommend shopping for (and perhaps investing in) these five simple wardrobe staples: a camel-colored coat, a classic black blazer, a chunky white knit sweater, straight-leg jeans, and Chelsea boots. That's it! And if you already have a few of these items at your disposal, great—do some quick "girl math" and use that savings to invest in a top-quality piece that you'll be happy about wearing for years to come. Ready? Let's shop.
1. White Chunky Cable-Knit Sweater
Style Notes: A cable knit jumper is such a core piece in any winter wardrobe. Usually in a cream colour way, it's a classic style that never goes out of trend. I tend to size up a couple of sizes for a more chunky, oversized feel.
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Cozy, oversized sweaters comprise approximately 50% of my winter wardrobe.
I look forward to Cos's knitwear every year.
The matching trousers are so chic.
This entire look is so chic and proves ecru tones don't have to be reserved for summer.
A cable knit jumper is such a good piece to invest in, it never goes out of style and will be worn for years.
2. Camel Wool Coat
Style Notes: The camel coat is long been considered the reigning hero when it comes to outerwear. It's chic, flattering and versatile, allowing it to be styled with so many different outfits and easily dressed up or down.
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Mango is my go-to high street brand for outerwear each year with good reason, their coats always look so much more expensive than they are.
This is made from 100% responsibly sourced wool.
You don't have to spend hundreds to get a great looking camel coat.
Max Mara are known for their gorgeous, high quality coats.
A scarf coat is at the top of my wishlist right now.
3. Black Blazer
Style Notes: If there's one thing in my wardrobe I wear year round, it's a black blazer. Sleek and timeless, it instantly elevates any outfit. In the winter months, I size up one or two sizes to ensure I can easily slip it on over a chunky knit.
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Toteme have perfected key minimalist pieces.
A leather blazer instantly brings texture to your look.
Boxy, oversized blazers are ideal in winter for layering.
To make a double breasted blazer feel more casual, roll the sleeves up.
So sleek.
4. Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Straight-leg jeans have such a timeless appeal and are universally flattering on any silhouette. They are one of those styles that can easily be dressed up or down, think trainers during the day and a pointed slingback heel at night.
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You truly cannot go wrong with an excellent pair of jeans from Aligne. This is a favourite of mine with its high waist and sky blue wash.
Dark blue denim is always a winner in winter.
I own a lot of jeans and my favourite pairs are from Citizens of Humanity.
Indigo denim is making such a comeback right now.
Agolde jeans are well worth the investment.
5. Chelsea Boots
Style Notes: A perennial fashion favourite, the Chelsea boot has seen many iterations throughout the years but has always remained a core classic boot that we always gravitate back to time and time again.
A cult classic.
For those in the market for a more chunky style.
This is such a good price for 100% leather.
A brown iteration for a softer finish than black.
Ganni's Chelsea boots are so popular year after year.
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