7 Winter Colour Combinations That Will Instantly Make You Look Put-Together
With the days getting shorter and greyer, we increasingly have to rely on our wardrobes to provide a dopamine hit. Which is why, however tempting it might be to stick to a black-and-white rotation (I'm definitely guilty of this, so no judgement from me), now is the time to explore some fresh, seasonally appropriate colour combinations and stylish winter outfits.
As our favourite influencers know, mastering the art of pairing different colours instantly makes you look like a style pro. Some are classic combinations that come back year after year—brown and ivory, for example, and black and navy (yes, they really do go together). Mixing complementary beiges is also a brilliant way to pull off the "quiet luxury" aesthetic, and is a great entry point for black-and-white dependents to introduce different tones into their winter dressing.
This season, however, there are some key trending colours that keep popping up on my feed. Top of the list is burgundy, which has quickly gone from the runway to the wardrobes of the fashion set. While any tone will work, a Bordeaux red tone seems to be top of the stylish list. And for those who thrived in the Barbiecore era, you'll be happy to hear that soft pinks are also a popular colour this season.
Whether you're a colour enthusiast or a relative novice, any one of these combinations is sure to inspire a wardrobe refresh. Here are some of the best I've seen.
1. BURGUNDY + BLACK
Style Notes: Leather trenches always pop up in the fashion set's winter looks, but pairing it with this season's trending burgundy colour makes it feel fresh. I love how Lauren tied her jumper for a unique and cosy look.
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Leopard print has been everywhere this autumn and winter.
A great option if you don't want to splurge on expensive real leather styles.
2. RED + GREY
Style Notes: Red is undoubtedly the trending colour of the season, and Annabel proves that the best way to introduce it into a minimalist's wardrobe is by pairing it with softening grey tones.
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Midi skirts are a cold weather must-have, and this style is particularly versatile.
Yep, the New Balance dad sneaker really is here to stay.
3. BLACK + NAVY
Style Notes: I've often been told to never wear black and navy together, but that is seriously bad advice. The best way to pair the two tones is by using black accessories to subtly offset the navy pieces.
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This is the kind of jumper that just gets better with age (as long as the moths stay away).
Straight leg jeans can form the foundation of so many different looks.
It's the coat that just keeps coming back, season after season.
4. PINK + GREY
Style Note: Barbiecore was a good reminder of just how versatile pink can be. Create a polished yet effortless look by pairing pink tailored trousers with a grey cable-knit and trainers.
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Such a sleek silhouette (but I love the comfortable drawstring waistband).
5. BROWN + WHITE
Style Notes: Nothing screams "quiet luxury" like wearing white in winter. Styling it with a rich brown instead of black creates a really soft, indulgent look.
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6. CREAM + OLIVE
Style Notes: Slip skirts always look stylish, and this olive version looks extra sophisticated when paired with a bouclé jumper.
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Sadly, the Adidas x Wales Bonner collab Sambas that Francesca is wearing are sold out, but these would look equally chic with this outfit.
7. BEIGE + BEIGE
Style Notes: One of the simplest and most effective colour combinations is contrasting light and dark beige tones. Effortlessly chic.
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This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.