As fashion editors, one of the questions we are asked the most is how you can look expensive and elevated on a high-street budget. Whatever price bracket you are working with, the key is to invest in a few versatile, beautifully-made pieces that will form the backbone of your everyday looks, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve this.
In winter it can be easy to put practicality first and hibernate in fleece fabrics and quilted coats, however if you are wanting to embrace an elegant aesthetic over the coming months I have assembled a list of sophisticated pieces that will keep you warm without sacrificing on style. An elegant mood swept the autumn/winter 2025 collections, with rich chocolate tones, knee-length skirts, rippling knee-high boots and sweeping maxi coats featuring in our seasonal trend report.
“Elegance isn't going anywhere, but it's loosening up,” Who What Wear's Maxine Eggenberger explains in the feature. ”This season's take feels lived-in and a little frayed at the edges, like a rich English woman got dressed in a hurry before dashing out the door… There's something about this new elegance that feels human. Relatable.” It’s not about all-cream outfits that require you to never step foot on public transport and to commit to eye-watering dry cleaning bills, this is a more grounded take on elegance. Stick to an indulgent colour palette (chocolate, burgundy and oatmeal reign), a mix of textures and oversized cocooning shapes, with pieces that can easily slot into your everyday rotation.
Keep reading for my edit of 52 pieces that will add a touch of elegance to your winter wardrobe. There is a lot, but my hope is that you find just one piece you truly love.
The Elegant Winter Buys I think Are Chic, Stylish and Worth Considering
1. Outerwear
The in-built scarf gives this a beautiful silhouette that will waft as you walk.
The cape detail is detachable, which is a thoughtful design feature.
This silhouette is a classic, while the shawl lapels add a touch more elegance.
Brown is the colour of 2025, and we love this boxy shape that will fit many layers of knitwear underneath.
This coat is also available in black.
Single-breasted car coats are popular this winter, and this olive green shade is an indulgent alternative to black.
Nothing looks as expensive as a light, cream coat.
The oversized, cocooning fit is perfect for winter layering.
2. Tops and Knitwear
You can always rely on Arket to craft high-quality knitwear.
The funnel neck creates a striking shape, and this cardigan shows it's not just reserved for outerwear.
Upgrade your cotton T-shirt with a knitted version.
The deep chocolate shade is a shortcut to elegant style.
The fine knit makes this an ideal layering piece.
Add some colour to your capsule with this mossy shade.
Draped knitwear instantly looks expensive.
Navygrey's chunky knits are ideal for tackling bitter winters in style. This is also available in a bright, punchier blue.
3. Trousers and Skirts
These have just the right amount of slouch.
Lace-trimmed slip skirts have dominated this summer, and this indulgent chocolate shade is ideal for all winter evening plans.
This has been a street style hit this fashion month.
These have a comfortable elasticated waist, however the barrel-leg gives them an almost architectural, smart look.
You might want to buy the matching cardigan too.
Every capsule needs a pair of neutral, wide-leg trousers.
The gold buttons are a stylish design detail.
Classic flared cords are given a modern update in this olive colour.
4. Bags
Seriously stunning.
This is also available in a lighter, oat shade.
The perfect black shoulder bag does exist.
Fashion editor secret—Massimo Dutti creates the best oversized tote bags.
Suede adds a beautiful texture to any outfit.
The perfect plus one to any festive event.
Upgrade your canvas bag with this oversized beauty.
5. Dresses
Wear in the day with a chunky knit or at night with heeled boots.
This won't stay in stock for long.
We'd style this with flat knee-high boots and tights.
A shirt dress is given a contemporary update with an asymmetric hemline.
Reiss's dress game is particularly strong right now.
White dresses aren't just for summer, as this Massimo midi proves.
Nighties and slip dresses are poised to be very popular this winter, and this blush version is a romantic take.
6. Shoes
Reformation's shoe department is well worth a browse.
The toffee suede elevates a classic loafer.
These streamline trainers are smart enough for the office.
So lovely.
Penny loafers will go with any of your winter outfits.
The 6cm heel makes these a practical everyday option.
Me + Em thinks about every tiny detail, and these have an inside elastic dart which makes them easy to slip on and off.
7. Jewellery and Small Accessories
Faux fur was all over the autumn/winter 2025 runways.
This adds an elegant spin to even the most simple of outfits.
A chicer alternative to a beanie hat.
The green stones make this a unique twist on a classic tennis bracelet.
Layering knitwear is the easiest way to look elegant.
The varying agate beads make this look extra unique.
The dark red strap stands out beautifully against darker washes of denim.
-
Elegant Dressers Can't Stop Wearing This Polished Colour This Winter (and It's Not Black, Brown or Cream)It's inherently polished.
-
I Only Buy My Winter Basics During Black Friday—17 Expensive-Looking Pieces to Keep You Warm and ChicI'm stocking up.
-
If You're Going to Wear Tights This Winter, Choose These Exact Styles to Look Your ChicestStep away from the 50 deniers.
-
I Have a Knack for Spotting Trends, and These Unlikely Colour Combinations Are About to Be BigSo many options.
-
Boots, Tights, Dress: Amal’s 3-Piece Winter Outfit Formula Looks Chic Every TimeIt will never let you down.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor Who Refuses to Be Cold—21 Chic Zara Basics I'm Shopping to Stay Warm This WinterWinter chill? Don't know her.
-
These 2 Winter Wardrobe Staples Are the Keys to One of the Most Elegant Outfit Combos EverPerfect pairings.
-
5 Winter Airport Outfit Ideas From Fashionable Frequent FlyersCosy, comfy and chic.
