Winter outfit ideas are all about balancing the practical with the stylish. Whilst it might be tempting to reach for the same chunky knit and legging combo on repeat, there are plenty of other styling tricks that will help you freshen up your winter look.
Freezing temperatures offer up a whole new styling conundrum. How do you look stylish and stay snug? Luckily there’s heaps of style inspo out there whether you want to tap into the fall 2022 fashion trends or invest in classic pieces to expand your winter capsule wardrobe.The easiest place to start is with the basics - think the best jeans, dresses and winter boots, wardrobe essentials that you can then build layers upon.
Unlike summer when you can throw on a dress and go, there are so many elements to winter dressing, making it the perfect opportunity to play around with your wardrobe and create endless looks. Fabric plays an important role too. From cozy cashmere to cuddly teddy bear textures, these materials will keep you warm and feeling polished. And let’s not forget winter accessories - blanket scarves, the best winter hats and glamorous gloves will help elevate your winter outfit ideas in an instant.
Winter outfit ideas as chosen by a fashion editor
From coats to sweaters and every layer that gets slipped on underneath, winter outfit ideas are rooted in practicality. While it might be cold outside, inside heated offices and homes can have us toasty in minutes, meaning layering is key to nailing what to wear in the winter. We’ve rounded up our favorite fail-safe winter outfit ideas to get you started.
1. Dress + longline knit
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We’ll never tire of the timeless midi dress and just because the temperature’s dropped, it doesn’t mean we have to ditch it. Thanks to its longer length, the best midi dresses allow you to skip the tights entirely if you wish, especially when teamed with some long boots. To up the cozy vibes, layer a longline cardigan or oversized turtleneck sweater over your dress for an effortlessly elegant daytime look. Worried the sweater will swamp your figure? Finish with a belt to define the waist.
Fashion editor’s picks…
Nobody’s Child Felicia Midi Dress
RRP: £49 (International Shipping Available) | A dainty floral print and a figure-skimming silhouette, this dress ticks all the boxes. We love the frill details for extra interest. Add strappy heels or a pair of must-have stompy boots.
Cos V-Neck Patch Pocket Cardigan
RRP: $135 / £79 | No longer reserved just for Grannies, cardigans are big when it comes to the fashion trends 2022. This cozy number from Cos is crafted from a wool and alpaca blend and is ideal for what to wear over a dress as a winter outfit.
Loewe Embellished Leather Belt
RRP: $490 / £325 | This designer belt from Loewe is guaranteed to add some luxe to your look. Made from premium soft leather, it features the signature emblem on the buckle. A sure-fire way to highlight your waist, it's available in a black and tan.
2. Sweater dress
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A sweater dress is the perfect piece to keep you feeling glamorous whilst remaining cozy too. Maximum impact, minimal effort, the best jumper dresses have that throw on and go appeal that’s a sartorial saviour when you’re pushed for time. Opt for a mini length and offset the shorter hem by teaming with the best knee high boots for a retro-inspired look or take it to the max and team a midi or maxi sweater dress with the best loafers or ankle boots.
Fashion editor’s picks…
H&M Knitted Turtleneck Dress in Khaki
RRP: $49.99 / £34.99 | We’re going to be cocooning ourselves in this chunky sweater dress all winter long. Available in three chic neutral shades, all equally versatile, the heavy knit fabric is guaranteed to keep you toasty. Add leggings for extra coverage.
LK Bennett Jesse Faux Fur Hiking Boots
RRP: $645 / £359 | Embrace that outdoorsy look with these stylish yet practical hiking boots. No actual hiking required (phew!) With a faux fur lining for an extra snug fit, this boots will help you discover what is Gorpcore and why it's trending right now.
All Saints Balfern Leather BIker Jacket
RRP: $529 / £319 | All Saints’ leather jackets are iconic for a reason so if you’re yet to invest, now’s your chance. Made from super soft leather, it’ll give dresses a tough moto-inspired edge. High quality leather will improve with age so don't be afraid to rock it.
3. Jeans + statement coat
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Of course jeans are a year-long staple but they really come into their own during the colder months. Look for relaxed styles such as a straight-leg or boyfriend cut for a cooler finish that also allows room to slip on a pair of tights underneath for extra warmth. For an effortless look that still packs a punch, team with the best winter coats and look for wintery textures such as leather, faux fur and shearling to champion this season's coat trends. Complete the look with some stylish ankle boots and voila! You have your off-duty winter outfit ideas sorted.
Fashion editor’s picks…
Everlane The Way-High Jean
RRP: $98 / £103 | When it comes to flattering denim, Everlane has you covered with this pair. The ultra high waist will cinch you in and help to elongate your pins. Made from organic cotton the jeans have a small amount of stretch for the perfect fit.
M&S Faux Shearling Coat
RRP: $155 / £89 | Give your outfits a '70s twist with this retro-inspired textured coat. It has statement toggle fastenings, a smart collar and it’s fully lined to ensure stay comfy during a cold spell. Get it or regret it, this one won't hang about for long.
J Crew Ribbed Mockneck Sweater
RRP: $98 / £110 | Breathe new life into your basics with this super soft sweater. Slim enough to layer under clothes as well as over, opt for the bold red hue for a pop of mood-boosting color. Crafted from a merino wool and alpaca mix for extra warmth.
4. Pants + Knitwear
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For an office-appropriate aesthetic that you can wear through the weekend, this is a no-brainer. Wide-leg trousers have a sense of understated elegance about them and are universally flattering too. For winning winter outfit ideas keep your look tonal and team your wide leg pants with a color coordinating knit for a seamless head-to-toe look. Lean into heavier fabrics such as corduroy and wool to add a wintery finish. A spot of dopamine dressing will boost your look and your mood.
Fashion editor’s picks…
Me + Em Tailored Check and Side Stripe Man Pant
RRP: $345 / £195 | Embrace boyish tailoring, with these wide-leg check trousers. When it comes to what to wear with wide leg pants, keep your top half fitted to let the leg lengthening trousers do the talking. The hem vents will drape effortlessly over shoes.
Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Crew Neck Sweater
RRP: $49.90 / £29.90 | A crew neck sweater is well worth having in your wardrobe rotation and Uniqlo are pros at creating fashionable and functional pieces. Super soft on the skin with a relaxed fit, it’s a forever classic. Slip on over a collared shirt.
Massimo Dutti Crackled Leather Loafers
RRP: $169 / £119 | A sleek pair of loafers embodies a smart/casual dress code and these stylish beauties are at the top of our wishlist. With a modern square toe and a statement gold buckle detail, they’ll go with all your winter outfit ideas.
5. Skirt + Long Boots
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Who doesn’t love a knit and skirt combo and this preppy look is just made for a winter outfit ideas. When it comes to how to wear a skirt and boots this winter, it’s all about balance, so the shorter the skirt, the longer the boots to ensure your legs get the coverage they need. Give feminine pleated skirts a grungier edge by teaming with stompier styles that tap into the boot trends 2022, while directional minis will look fantastic paired with directional over-the-knee boots. Winter dressing is all about mixing textures too - think a leather skirt and one of the best John Lewis coats, with a pair of sleek boots for a winning combination.
Fashion editor’s picks…
Mint Velvet Faux Leather Pleat Mini Skirt
RRP: $155 / £89 | Feminine pleats in a tough faux leather fabric, this skirt has a rebellious edge to it that gives a nod to '90s fashion trends. Style with a cream chunky cable knit sweater and knee high boots for an effortlessly glam look.
Boden Embellished Fair Isle Pink and Green Jumper
RRP: $198 / £140 | Give the best Christmas jumpers a grown-up spin with this cute fair isle knit. The crystal embellishments add an extra layer of luxe and the ribbed hem makes it easy to tuck or half tuck into an A-line skirt for a cute winter outfit idea.
Mango Knee-Length Boots in Black
RRP: $119.99 / £69.99 | Every shoe-drobe needs a pair of flat black boots and these, for us, are a front-runner. Finishing at or just above the knee, they’ll look just as good with your best jeans tucked into the leg as they do with skirts and dresses.
6. Knitted co-ords
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If it’s wardrobe mileage you’re after, a knitted co-ord has got you covered for those winter outfit ideas. Creating a plethora of style opportunities you can wear the coord pieces together for a chic tonal look or mix and match with other wardrobe staples - a smart shirt or the best leggings. This look is super easy to dress up too - just add a sparkly clutch and the best designer heels to render it dinner date ready or keep it relaxed with sporty sneakers for your Sunday getup.
Fashion editor’s picks…
Zara Wide Sleeve Knit Sweater
RRP: $49.90 / £32.99 | The wide sleeves gives the classic cream knit an added dose of drama. Half tuck into the matching skirt to help streamline your shape, you can even highlight the waist with a belt.
Zara Long Knit Skirt in Ecru
RRP: $49.90 / £32.99 | This simple, yet stylish knitted skirt has a flattering A-line silhouette for a ladylike finish. There’s a slit at the back for easy movement and the length looks great with boots or heels.
Malone Souliers Frankie Mules
RRP: $636 / £475 | Add some shimmer to your step with these chic mules. In shiny gold leather, the low heel makes them easy-to-wear from day to night and the slimline strap keeps them secure,
7. Jumpsuit
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Guaranteed to keep you warm and stylish from head to toe is the trusty boilersuit. Even more so if you stick to thicker fabrics such as leather and denim. Not only is this look achingly cool, but it requires little effort as the all-in-one means little is needed in terms of added styling. A flattering jumpsuit works with a plethora of footwear too, from the best winter boots to some sparkly sandals. If you need an extra layer, slip a fine-knit turtleneck underneath.
Fashion editor’s picks…
Aspiga Victoria 3/4 Sleeve Corduroy Jumpsuit
RRP: $355 / £250 | The fine corduroy fabric gives this all-in-one a wintery feel. Considered details such as the frilly cuffs and a figure flattering fitted waistband and wide-leg offers a high-end finish, ensuring this jumpsuit is ideal for Christmas party outfits.
Ted Baker Leyanni Studded Bow Court Shoes
RRP: $225 / £140 |In a classic court silhouette, the statement bow adds a dramatic finish. The thicker heel keeps these heels sturdy, while the stud detail gives a directional finish. A worthy addition to your work Christmas party outfit, it's time to shine.
Accessorize Harlequin Beaded Shoulder Bag
RRP: $73 / £55 | This colorful bag will add a playful spin to any party look this festive season, particularly to little black dresses. Roomy enough for all your evening essentials, it has an inside zip pocket and a magnetic snap to keep your belongings more secure.
