These Are The 8 Items You Need To Build A Winter Capsule Wardrobe
Building the ultimate capsule wardrobe is no small feat. Indeed, curating a thoughtfully edited collection of clothing and accessories that seamlessly mix and match, and cover any occasion, can be a challenge even for the seasoned pros among us – and even more so in the winter.
But with the right knowledge, you too can get your wardrobe rotation down to a T, making leaving the house on a chilly day as swift and easy as possible. From the wide-leg jeans that’ll go with every nice top and the perfect weather-proof boots, to the most sumptuous knits and accessories that will actually keep you cosy, these are the building blocks for every good outfit.
Whether reviving some forgotten items nestled in the back of your wardrobe or making some conscious investments in pieces you’ll wear again and again, here’s how to master the art of an capsule winter wardrobe that will stand the test of time.
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The Warm Coat
Let’s start with locking in that all-important warmth. We all know that a cosy coat is an absolute winter necessity, something you can swathe yourself in when heading out the door to face the elements. From a classic herringbone wool overcoat to a shearling-lined jacket, striking the right balance of cosy and chic will guarantee a coat’s place in your daily rotation. Look to Arket for timeless investment pieces or Uniqlo for polished affordability.
Waxed Trench Coat
Down Belted Long Coat
Long wool blend herringbone coat
Shearling Jacket
The Winter Skirt
A winter skirt are a feminine alternative to trousers in the colder months. Opt for fabrics like wool or denim in maxi and midi lengths that will insulate from within. Le Kilt is our favourite for classic Scottish tartan, while Damson Madder’s sustainable denim skirts make a fitting choice for eco-conscious wardrobes. Pair with knee-high boots and a proper pair of tights to weigh up warmth and style.
Midi Kilt
Pleated Wool Blend Skirt
Raye Denim Skirt
Balloon Hem Maxi Skirt
The Winter Boots
To complement your winter get-ups, boots are a must. Chunky styles offer practicality and will keep your feet high (and dry) off the ground, while sleek pointed pairs will add an air of elegance to any outfit. Brands like Clarks and Dr Martens win at delivering footwear that feels timeless without breaking the bank.
Edina Tall
Maybole Square Toe Leather Chelsea Boots
Khaki Hatton Chunky Chelsea Boot
Remy Knee Boot
The Wide-Leg Jeans
A true capsule wardrobe staple, wide-leg jeans bring easy versatility to winter dressing – as perfect under a crisp shirt with heels, or with a cosy knit and a pair of chunky boots. Look for heavyweight denim from brands like Agolde or Weekday to ensure quality and warmth. Choose a classic indigo wash or a muted black for maximum wearability.
Duchess Low Loose Baggy Jeans
Low Slung Baggy 30.5 Jeans
Wide Leg Jeans With Pockets
Cloud Low Loose Jeans
The Cosy Knits
A winter wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without an arsenal of cosy knits. Think cashmere jumpers, turtlenecks, and cardigans in neutral tones and basic shapes. Everlane offers a brilliant range of sustainable cashmere, while Ami Paris’ playful heart knits can inject some subtle fun into your layering game.
The Boxy Turtleneck in Cashmere
100% Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper
Brown CashSoft Long Sleeve Crew Neck Cardigan
Red Ami de Coeur Turtle Neck Sweater
The Cult Trainer
For those in-between weather days, or when you need a break from boots, a pair of cult trainers is key. Collaborations like Wales Bonner x Adidas are a solid choice, while New Balance’s retro-inspired designs work seamlessly with winter skirts, wide-leg jeans and tailored trousers alike – the ultimate footwear multitaskers.
1906r Trainers
Cecilie Bahnsen x Gel Terrain
Superstar Sneaker
Xt-6 Low-Top Sneakers
The Smart Trouser
Tailored trousers in wool or thick cord are a winter wardrobe essential for an more elevated look. They're perfectly paired with trainers for casual outings or loafers for smarter settings. Look to The Row for luxe options and & Other Stories for great tailored fits.
Wide Trousers
Wide Trousers
Eglitta Straight-Leg Corduroy Trousers
Ellis High Waist Trousers
The Winter Warmers
Accessories are the unsung heroes of a winter wardrobe. Think snuggly scarves, wool beanies, and leather gloves to add that final flourish to your winter capsule. Acne Studios if your go to for luxury scarves, while Uniqlo’s HeatTech gloves are a budget-friendly staple.
HEATTECH Lined Soufflé Yarn Mittens
Wool Mohair Scarf
Alpaca Merino Blend Beanie
Long Leather Gloves
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