Top 8 Winter Essentials
This is your guide to the top winter essentials you'll rely on for the cold months ahead.
Ever wondered how some people manage to look warm and stylish all winter long? The secret is simpler than you think: a well-curated cold-weather capsule wardrobe. It’s the quiet hero of personal style.
With a handful of versatile pieces that work across different moods, outfits and temperatures, you’ll suddenly find your wardrobe doing a lot more for you. Think cosy textures, easy layering and endless mix-and-match possibilities. From standout coats and chunky knits to hardworking boots and the layering heroes you’ll reach for time and again. Here are the top eight winter essentials that will see you through the season in style.
Written By: Giuliana Biondi - Published 24.11.25
1. The Statement Coat
When it comes to dressing for the cold, winter coats are high on the list. Investing in a selection with a range of fabrics, silhouettes and lengths is a cornerstone of any winter wardrobe; and it’s more than just practicality. A good coat can transform an outfit, keeping you chic and comfortable all season long.
As temperatures drop, it’s time to pull out your padded puffer jackets, perfect for staying cosy when the cold bites, without feeling bulky. Their lightweight insultation makes layering over chunky knits a breeze. A further classic is a trench coat; the kind that never goes out of style. Ideal for those milder winter days or rainy spells, it offers lightweight coverage while elevating your outfit. And when the wind picks up, a long winter coat becomes your go-to. Offering extra warmth and coverage, keeping you protected on winter walks or city commutes.
This season’s coveted piece? A wool coat. Whether worn over cosy knits or simple polos, it instantly smartens up any outfit. From longline belted styles to double-breasted peacoats, a wool coat will see you through crisp autumn days and chilly mornings with ease. One of our favourites is the BOSS X BECKHAM Wool Coat. Made from a wool and cashmere blend, it delivers both warmth and lasting durability, while the knee-length cut creates a flattering silhouette.
2. The Cosy Scarf
No winter wardrobe is complete without a few scarves to mix and match. From cosy textures and varying lengths to a palette of shades and patterns, they’re the easiest way to add warmth, personality and an extra finishing touch to any outfit.
This season, wool and cashmere are back in the spotlight, bringing a rich, tactile feel to your outerwear. Oversized shapes in classic shades like brown, cream or grey are perfect for effortless versatility, while patterned scarves - from animal prints to playful checks - are a fun way to mix things up. A winter scarf is one of the simplest ways to layer in cosy warmth while giving your outfit a touch of character.
A cold-weather favourite: the leopard print wool scarf from Anine Bing. Made from a soft wool blend and finished with a bold leopard print, it’s a functional accessory that bring warmth and personality to your winter wardrobe. Wear it casually draped over a coat for easy, relaxed style or wrap it around your neck for that cosy, winter-ready feel.
3. The Chunky Knit
When curating your knitwear collection, it’s important you choose pieces that combine quality, versatility and style. With their mix of texture and warmth, having a thoughtfully curated collection of knits is failsafe for the winter season. Beyond keeping you warm, they add instant style and offer endless layering options, taking you from casual weekends to smarter winter looks.
If you’re wanting your knits to last, wool, specifically merino wool, is a firm favourite thanks to its durability and insulating properties. Cashmere offers a soft, lightweight warmth that’s ideal for layering over shirts or under jackets, while mohair brings exceptional warmth without the weight and adds a soft, textured feel. Whether you opt for a cable knit, rollneck or quarter zip, these fabrics are your go-to. Dress up or down, chunky knitwear is an essential part of any winter capsule wardrobe.
A must-have for this winter is the mohair knit sweatshirt by Off White. Crafted from a blend of mohair and wool, it feels soft against the skin and offers warmth on chilly days. Its relaxed yet refined silhouette makes layering over tees or shirts easy, while the bold gradient effect and oversized arrow logo on the reverse adds a fun twist, making this winter jumper a standout piece of the season.
4. The Winter Bag
A bag is a year-round essential, the finishing touch that pulls an outfit together no matter the season. But in winter, we naturally reach for styles with richer textures and cosier finishes that play into the layers we’re already wearing. This is where the winter bag really comes into its own.
Structured leather bags bring shape to chunkier silhouettes, giving oversized coats an elevated feel, while shearling bags add warmth and softness, creating that plush contrast we crave in the colder months. Then there’s the fun of texture play - buttery suede, quilted panels and croc embossing - materials that add depth and a little extra personality to any winter look. Practicality matters too: a crossbody bag keeps your hands free on frosty mornings, while sturdier shapes hold your belongings without losing their structure.
Topping off this winter’s wish list is the Coach Quilted Tabby 26 Shoulder Bag. Blending two popular styles, quilted detailing and velvety suede, it’s an accessory that’s both tactile and chic. A modern take on a classic 1970s Coach design, the structured 26 bag brings back the brand’s heritage with a contemporary feel. The gold-tone hardware adds that signature touch of luxury, while the long leather chain strap lets you wear it crossbody or double it up for a shorter, dressier look, taking you from day to night in one swoop.
5. The Layering Hero
To master the art of layering, start with hero pieces that combine fashion with function. Investing in well-considered layers creates a strong foundation for dressing through winter’s shifting temperatures. And while they certainly keep you warm, they also bring a mix of texture and shape that elevate your everyday looks, making each outfit feel more intentional and a lot more comfortable.
Gilets, quilted vests and shackets are taking centre stage this winter, offering the ideal in-between layer for those milder days. Lightweight yet warm, they add just the right amount of insulation without the bulk of a full coat. By stacking these pieces, you introduce depth, dimension and an extra level of comfort to any outfit. Whether styled over knitwear or layered under outerwear, these versatile layers bring both practicality and style to your cold-weather wardrobe.
Brave the cold in comfort with The North Face Limbara Insulated Gilet. Crafted with lightweight synthetic insulation, it delivers warmth without adding weight or bulk, so you can keep moving with ease. And with its stowable hood, you’re always prepared for unpredictable weather. It’s the kind of layer you’ll reach for on crisp morning walks, weekend adventures and everything in between.
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6. The Knit Dress
In the world of knitwear, having one piece that does the hard work for you is key. Enter the knit dress - the all-in-one hero that takes away the guesswork of pairing tops and bottoms. It’s easy, effortless, and one of those pieces you can throw on and feel instantly put together, whether you’re heading to the office, running errands or out for date night.
From playful minis to elegant midis, there’s a length to suit every mood and occasion. Textures range from sleek, figure-hugging ribbed knits to chunky weaves that wrap you in warmth on chilly days. You can opt for a classic jumper dress for everyday wear, a chic turtleneck for a polished finish, or a relaxed, oversized fit for a cosy look. With so many choices, a knitted dress is a wardrobe staple you can rely on season after season.
Step out in style with the Kaia Knitted Midi Dress from Barbour International. In a rich chocolate brown, with a ribbed texture and a flattering, figure-skimming silhouette, it’s the perfect fashion-forward winter dress to carry you through the colder months. Pair it with boots for the office or dress it up with kitten heels and statement accessories for special occasions. A piece that’s as versatile as it is timeless.
7. The Winter Boot
When it comes to winter footwear, boots are your best friend. There’s something about a great pair that can carry you through the season in both comfort and ease. They key is having a few reliable options that keep your feet warm, weather-ready and put-together.
Chelsea boots are a great starting point. Sleek yet practical, their low heel, ankle height and easy pull-on design make them a go-to shoe. Ugg boots continue to hold a special place in our hearts (and wardrobes) for a reason. With their cosy shearling lining and a variety of lengths and designs, they're the ultimate in comfort-meets-cool. And then there are combat boots. Tough, versatile and practical, they’re a must-have for braving cold, wet days while adding edge to any outfit. Whether it’s leather, shearling-lined or fully waterproof winter boots, the right pair will keep enhance your winter looks with ease.
For a fresh take on a classic, look to the Dr. Martens 2976 Faux Fur lined Chelsea Boots - a familiar favourite reworked for winter. Made from Valor WP, a heavyweight, water-resistant leather with a slightly tumbled finish; they’re designed to handle the elements while still feeling easy to wear. Warm, hardwearing and winter proof, they’re lined with soft fleece throughout, so every step feels snug, supported and suited to colder days.
8. The Finishing Touches
Last but certainly not least are the finishing touches. No winter wardrobe is truly complete without a cold-weather accessory (or two). Think soft beanies, warm gloves, snug hats and playful earmuffs; pieces that not only protect you from the chill but also add personality to any outfit.
Slip into a pair of gloves, whether leather or knitted, to keep your hands warm on frosty days. And don’t underestimate the power of a good hat. From classic beanies to ribbed wool styles, a hat is one of the most practical winter accessories. Alternatively, a pair of fluffy earmuffs is a cosy option that keeps your ears warm with a fun twist. Together, these winter accessories not only enhance warmth but also elevate your winter style with minimal effort.
Rounding out our winter lineup are the Barbour Faux-Fur Trimmed Leather Gloves. Made from supple dark brown leather, they feel as luxurious as they look. The soft faux-fur trim at the cuffs adds a cosy, stylish touch, while the versatile colour makes them easy to pair. With their mix of texture and warmth, these gloves keep your hands warm without compromising on style.
