I've Been a Stylist for Over a Decade—8 Winter Outfit Formulas I Recommend If You Want to Look Polished

Forgotten what to wear when it's this cold? Us too. The perfect winter outfit for this kind of weather needs to marry fashion with function. That means it's all about layering. Some of the chicest winter outfits work so well because they feature classic wardrobe staples in of-the-moment layering combinations that bring both a forward feel to the looks and a practicality for keeping up with the roller coaster of the day's temperatures.

While there are plenty of tried-and-true layering combinations that always work—think a T-shirt underneath a cardigan underneath a trench coat—I've sourced a number of key outfits that'll never fail. The looks in question are all especially relevant for autumn/winter 2024, and I also think said outfits could earn you compliments thanks to their more creative feel. Some people might even go so far as to assume you started working with a secret stylist to amp up your wardrobe. And you know? I say let them. With that, keep scrolling for a few winter layering outfit ideas, complete with shopping inspiration.

EASY LAYERING OUTFITS THAT MAKE YOU LOOK POLISHED:

1. Leather Trench + Roll Neck + Jeans

Style Notes: Freshen up a casual jeans outfit by layering with a cosy roll neck and leather coat combo. There's something about the material that always looks effortlessly polished, and the belted style will stop you from feeling swamped under tonnes of layers. See how Sylvie has added tights underneath her jeans? That's a winter layering hack to remember.

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2. Waistcoat + Blazer + Maxi Coat

Style Notes: Waistcoats are still key for winter, and one cool way to wear yours is to layer it underneath a coordinating blazer. For added warmth depending on the forecast, throw a maxi coat in a tonal colour on top to keep the look polished.

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3. V-Neck Knit + White T-shirt + Leather Jacket + Jeans

Style Notes: Layering a crisp white tee underneath your jumper, especially a V-neck that shows off the contrasting colours, is the coolest way to wear your basics right now. Pair the combo with '90s-inspired denim and a leather jacket for the freshest everyday outfit that's secretly so easy to throw together. You could also add a long coat for exta chilly days.

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4. Double Jumper + Tailored Trouser + Suede Bag

Style Notes: Double the knits equals double the fun (and warmth). Tap into the monochromatic trend by wearing a knit and tying another one in the same hue over your shoulders to match. Wear with matchy-matchy trousers for the full tonal vibe.

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5. Jumper + White T-Shirt + Delicate Skirt

Style Notes: For a party season look that'll still keep you reasonably warm, it's all about balance. Layer on top so that you can brave being bare legged on the bottom. Layering a sweater over a white T-shirt is an easy way to add a forward feel to your everyday basics—and the combo works with everything from jeans to a sequin skirt.

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6. Trouser Suit + Button-Down Shirt + Tank Top

Style Notes: The savviest layering techniques are all in the details. Next time you wear a collared shirt and blazer, add it over a vest or T-shirt. Leave the collar out over the blazer's lapels for some added interest––hello, Christmas party look.

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7. Maxi Coat + Cardigan + Jeans

Style Notes: The humble cardigan is having quite the moment. The hero piece that's become the starting point to many chic outfits, invest in a grey style and it'll see you through so many seasons. Layer it over a T-shirt, roll neck or another jumper and bundle up under a maxi coat.

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8. Roll Neck Dress + Collarless Jacket

Style Notes: Collarless, structured jackets are arguably *the* It piece to know for winter. Of all the ways to wear one, we love the idea of layering it over a long ribbed dress—bonus points for chic stripes. Switch loafers to boots for when you have to venture outside of the office.

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