The 10 Winter Clothing Essentials All Women Need

As cold weather sets in, I start thinking about everyday essentials that can be combined to create endless cute winter outfits that are classy, comfortable, and practical. I’ve shared capsule wardrobes in the past, like my summer essentials and my fall essentials, but today, I’m sharing the top 10 winter essentials every closet needs for looking stylish and staying cozy all winter. If you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe, then you may consider getting help from a professional wardrobe company for luxury wardrobe designs.

1. Wool Coat

A great winter coat can truly pull an entire outfit together. I think you can never have too many coats, as seen here in faux fur and here in plaid, but I’m all about a classic camel coat when it comes to winter outerwear. I recommend investing in a longer style that will pair well with jeans, winter dresses, leggings, a midi or maxi dress, and jumpsuits. Below I share a few of my favorites this season from reliable brands like Calvin Klein, Everlane, Mango, and Ann Taylor.

2. Coated Pants or Leggings

Faux leather leggings or coated pants are such a great staple piece for a winter wardrobe. They offer a luxe, elevated look when compared to everyday leggings without sacrificing comfort. For a classic outfit idea, pair coated pants with a cream sweater and knee-high boots, or go casual with faux leather leggings with combat boots, a hoodie, and a peacoat layered on top.

SIMILAR PANTS

3. Sweaters

Cooler weather means bringing out the coziest sweaters, whether you’re lighting a fire at home or out and about in your city. From long sleeve crew necks to v-necks, cowl necks, turtlenecks, chunky knit sweaters, and oversized sweaters, I honestly can’t get enough. See below for a selection of my favorite pullovers and knits that are amazing for layering this season.

4. Winter Boots

For winter boots you can wear year after year, turn to a pair of shearling booties. These are so ideal for comfort after the first frost (or snow) sets in, highlighted in what’s usually a chunky block heel profile and shearling or faux fur padding. If you don’t live in a colder climate, try a high-rise chelsea boot or combat boot instead.

BOOTS

5. Knee-High Boots

Whenever someone asks me what my favorite pair of cold-weather shoes is, I answer my knee-high boots. Like a great wool coat, the right pair will last you years while adding a classic aesthetic and keeping your legs covered and warm. If you tend to wear skinny jeans and midi sweater dresses often, I recommend a knee-high style, but if you enjoy mini skirts or want an edgier look overall, try a great pair of suede over-the-knee boots.

6. Scarves

The difference in comfort and warmth that layering a scarf can make is incredible. I don’t know about you, but when my neck is cold, I’m not a happy lady. I recommend investing in one high-quality, versatile scarf that will pair with hundreds of different outfits. White + Warren, Theory, and Banana Republic all make excellent options. Be sure to choose a neutral color that will go with all of your winter outfits!

7. Beanies

Beanies are so functional, keeping your head warm while lending a classy (or cute!) look to your winter outfits, depending on the style you choose. Go for a pom beanie if you like a cute, laid back look, or opt for a simple ribbed or cashmere beanie if the pom isn’t your style. J. Crew makes adorable pom styles, and my favorite simple beanies are designed by Rag & Bone and Blue & Cream.

8. Puffer Jacket or Parka

Everyone needs a great puffer jacket for running errands and staying warm when it’s freezing out. If you travel often or live in ultra-cold weather, look for a packable, water-resistant, down option. If you live in a milder climate, a thin quilted puffer or even a mini puffer will do. My favorite brands for athletic puffers include Patagonia, North Face, and Lululemon, and for feminine, stylish puffers I really like Cole Haan, Marc New York, Canada Goose, and Moncler at Nordstrom.

9. Hoodie and Joggers

Loungewear is obviously trending in 2020 and I don’t think that’s going away for awhile! I personally love this as there are so many ways to feel comfortable in hoodies, cardigans, and sherpas, while looking “dressed” when they’re paired well. I recommend grabbing a great hooded sweatshirt for starters to pair with high-rise leggings, a coat, and sneakers. Alo Yoga makes amazing soft joggers that can 100% transition from working at home to out and about.

SIMILAR SHERPA

10. Cardigan

Longline cardigans are to winter what a long-sleeve shirt or bodysuit is to fall. They’re so easy to add a baselayer to for some warmth without being too bulky. The right one, like this popular blazer coatigan (A closet must have, and there is almost always a discount code at checkout!) will fit perfectly underneath a wool coat on really cold days. If you live in a milder climate, try a leather jacket and a trench coat as well. Browse some of my favorite cardigans and dusters below…

These are my top 10 winter wardrobe essential pieces! What are yours? Let me know how you plan to stay comfy this season in the comments or on Instagram.