"Hate" is a strong word, which is why I never use it lightly. In fact, there are only two instances in which I can say it with conviction. One is regarding bananas. (I'll never understand how anyone can eat them.) The other? Being cold. I hate being cold. However, one thing I do like is dressing for the cold.
Curating an outfit for sub-zero conditions is often regarded as one of the biggest fashion dilemmas going. But with a bit of advice from yours truly, you can take on the elements with all the knack of a pro snowboarder but with all the sartorial prowess of a pro street styler.
Be it a cable-knit, a roll-neck or one of Zara's bestsellers, jumpers are a winter-style given. Keep scrolling to see the other unexpected but also the best cold-weather clothing items I swear by. How do I know? Because I live in Scotland, I pull these items out of hibernation every year as soon as the centigrade drops. No need to thank me, but should you feel so inclined, please don't do so with banana bread.
The Best Cold-Weather Clothing to Keep You Cosy This Winter:
1. THE PADDED COAT
Style Notes: As far as I'm concerned, the risk of winding up looking like the Michelin Man is worth taking in the pursuit of warmth in winter. But with the fashion seal of approval, you can now pop on a padded coat with new-found pride.
Shop the Staple:
Cosy and chic.
This also comes in four other versatile shades.
This colourway looks so luxe.
2. THE ROLL-NECK
Style Notes: A wool or cashmere roll-neck jumper is extremely effective at keeping in the heat, but more importantly, it's great at keeping the chill out. Opt for a neutral iteration you can layer under all your coats and jackets.
Shop the Staple:
I love the simplicity of this one.
Stripes are timeless.
The perfect layering piece.
3. THE LEATHER TROUSERS
Style Notes: We all remember the episode of Friends where Ross gets too hot in his leather pants, so he takes them off, only to find that they won't pull back on. Amongst the hilarity, there's an element of truth: Leather keeps you warm. I suggest investing in pair of leather trousers stat.
Shop the Staple:
I love the subtly flared fit of this pair.
This slightly more matte finish is perfect for minimalists.
Stella McCartney does excellent vegan leather.
4. THE KNITTED VEST
Style Notes: We all have those coats that are too tailored to wear chunky knitwear under. The solution? A knitted vest. And this year, there are plenty of incredibly chic iterations to be had.
Shop the Staple:
The relaxed fit is perfect for layering during the colder months.
This looks incredibly expensive.
You'll never regret investing in cashmere knitwear.
5. THE JUMPER DRESS
Style Notes: As I said, jumpers are a cold-weather given, but jumper dresses? Previously, they were less commonplace, but in recent years, they're all the sartorial rage. Choose a midi style for maximum warmth.
Shop the Staple:
The V-neck is perfect for layering turtlenecks underneath.
This is sure to keep you cosy and looking chic.
Try belting this dress to change up the overall fit.
6. THE FLANNEL OVERSHIRT
Style Notes: Thick flannel shirting is one of the top trends of the season and, handily, is incredibly toasty, too. We love how influencer Monikh Dale wears hers open over a simple tee and knitted joggers for a comfy at-home ensemble.
Shop the Staple:
Just look at this colour combo.
Uniqlo always comes through.
Just add jeans and ankle boots.
7. THE BLANKET SCARF
Style Notes: Okay, so not quite Lenny Kravitz–scarf proportions, but these knitted beauties are still pretty supersized. Wear one slung over your shoulder or belted in place over your coat, or simply lie on the ground and roll yourself into a very chic cocoon.
Shop the Staple:
This is at the top of my wish list.
The two tone checks are such a nice touch.
This stylish scarf is sure to keep you warm.
8. THE KNEE BOOT
Style Notes: It's not often that the latest It shoes are also ones you could actually wear in subzero temperatures so I'm elated that knee boots (usually found modelled in leather) are on winter's style index.
Shop the Staple:
I've had my eye on these for weeks.
How sleek are these?
The colour makes these feel even more premium.
9. THE LONG-SLEEVE BODYSUIT
Style Notes: Though I always wear them in the summer with jeans, it's only recently that I've realised just how toasty bodysuits can be in the winter months. I find they help me preserve my body heat, keeping me toastier in lighter knits. Think of the below pieces as stylish alternatives to thermals.
Shop the Staple:
This Wolford bodysuit is beloved by celebrities.
Square necklines always look elevated.
This will look so chic tucked into the leather trousers above.
10. THE DARK DENIM JEAN
Style Notes: As we adjust to darker days, it's natural for our wardrobes to follow suit with deeper, richer hues. Indigo denim offers an effortless update that will give your outfits that moody winter feel.
Shop the Staple:
The contrast stitching really elevates this pair.
Set to be the foundation of so many great outfits.
The barrel-leg trend has lasting appeal, if you ask me.
11. THE LEATHER SNEAKER
Style Notes: While cotton canvas trainers mightn't be appropriate for single-digit temperatures, leather pairs are another story. Where knee-high boots are your smart footwear choice for the months ahead, sneakers will serve you well on low-key winter days.
Shop the Staple:
Suede trainers add a touch of luxury to every outfit.
The hint of gold is so fun.
Your new everyday shoe.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
-
Suddenly, Every Classy Fashion Person in Paris Is Wearing This Elegant Heeled-Shoe TrendA fresh take on the classic Mary Jane.
-
Simone Ashley Is in the Fast LaneSince her breakout role in Bridgerton, our Spring Issue cover star has quickly risen to A-list status. Up next, she masters the rom-com leading lady.
-
I Hate to Admit It, But After Purging My Closet, I Had to Rebuy These 8 Hero PiecesHere's what I learned after my closet identity crisis.
-
I Asked Women Whose Style I Admire About Their Capsule Wardrobes—They Shared These Golden RulesHere's the tea.
-
Jamie Mizrahi's World: The Celeb Stylist's Favorite Red Carpet Look, Most Worth-It Shoe, and Album She Listens to on RepeatA modern-day style expert.
-
I'm Telling All My Friends About the Elevated Brand NYC's Coolest Fashion People Already Know AboutNow you're in the loop too.
-
How Everyone Will Be Wearing Their Non–Skinny Jeans This SpringHere's your outfit inspiration.
-
I'm Ready to Embrace a Capsule Wardrobe—29 Madewell Items I'm Starting WithIt has nonbasic basics on lock.
-
Suddenly, Women With The Row Style Are Breaking This Fashion RuleYou should too.
-
It's Only February, But Parisians Have Already Chosen Their 5 Go-To Wardrobe Staples of 2025Chic on repeat.
