17 Casual Winter Outfits That Are Elite in Every Way
Well, friends, it looks like we're gearing up for another season of this new normal, and seeing as certain dressier looks have felt off to us all year, we think it's our duty to serve up a fresh round of outfit ideas that actually feel relevant for the times. I think we can all agree that casual and easy-to-throw-together looks are what we want to wear the most right now, whether it be some elevated loungewear for chilling at home or a composition of cool basics that look chic no matter what.
But just because you're wearing something casual and comfortable doesn't mean your outfit can't also look elevated and cool. In fact, sometimes wearing your standard basics can be really stylish. We've found that the trick comes down to a few key style staples and picking out the right accessories to add in. Yep, even when wearing something as simple as jeans and sneakers. Want to see some chic fashion person–approved ideas? Go on to check out 17 casual winter outfits that are elite in every way.
PSA: There's a new neckline in town, and it's about to replace all your basic tops.
Shop the key pieces:
How to spice up your simplest outfits? Drape a contrasting knit sweater over any outerwear, from a blazer to a coat, for a preppy vibe that feels so right now.
Shop the key pieces:
Lightweight layers are always a good idea, and we're giving this combo of a turtleneck, loose trousers, and a trench coat an A+.
Shop the key pieces:
A not-so-basic sweater and retro sneakers are a surefire way to make your sweatpants look more "fashion."
Shop the key pieces:
Try a ribbed-knit dress when you don't know what else to wear. It's easy and comfortable and always looks so polished.
Shop the key pieces:
Trousers are a winter staple on their own, and we're loving how fresh they look here with a chunky sweater and retro sneakers.
Shop the key pieces:
A blazer-inspired coat instantly makes any loungewear ensemble look more pulled-together.
Shop the key pieces:
Try relaxed leather pants instead of jeans for your next coffee run. A bright puffer coat brings the look to life.
Shop the key pieces:
Since I know you're probably on the hunt for more chic legging looks at the moment, here's another French girl–approved take.
Shop the key pieces:
Knit sets are the loungewear trend the fashion set is obsessed with at the moment.
Throw on a second-skin top to liven up your jeans.
Shop the key piece:
Sometimes, less is more, and this perfect outfit made up of just the basics is proof.
Shop the key pieces:
A grandma sweater is cool and guaranteed to earn your compliments.
Shop the key piece:
Leather pants are the perfect base to all your favorite sweaters right now.
Shop the key pieces:
Shop the key pieces:
Leaving the house in your sweats? A teddy coat and chunky boots instantly add style.
Shop the key pieces:
Layer a plain T-shirt underneath a sweater-vest for a casual take on the trendy knit.
Shop the key pieces:
Next up, 30 Holiday Gifts I Secretly Want for Myself
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFW
Let's dive in.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears Today
A true fashion icon.
By Judith Jones
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% Classic
Just as you are.
By Drew Elovitz
-
I Don't Do Maximalism—6 Quiet Luxury Trends That Are Still Cool in 2025
On-trend, not trendy.
By Natalie Cantell
-
This '70s Coat Trend Was on My "Do Not Buy" List Until Bella, Lila, and Taylor Changed My Mind
It's so Almost Famous coded.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Unlock the Secret to a Chic and Elegant Winter Wardrobe With These 6 Key Pieces
From timeless coats to expensive-looking sneakers.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Scandi Girls Are All About These 6 Minimalist Coat Trends This Winter
Even in subzero temps.
By Ana Escalante
-
I Live in Brooklyn and Am Sure This Is the Only Coat Trend New Yorkers Will Wear Until Spring
I see it everywhere I go.
By Natalie Cantell