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9 Cold-Weather Staples for a Timeless, Wearable Winter Closet

NOTE: This roundup is geared toward those of us who live in colder climates, where winter really shows up and sticks around. If your weather is more moderate, my Fall Wardrobe Essentials may be a better fit—but you may still find some helpful ideas here. Okay, let’s get to it!

1. Classic Wool Coat

J.Crew Chiara Topcoat (6) – splurge option (spend option / save option) // Nordstrom cashmere crewneck (M) (option) // Gap Factory Favorite Crewneck T-Shirt (M) // MOTHER The Bookie Sneak Bootcut Jeans (29) (option) // Dolce Vita Faint H20 (8.5) // Clare V. Midi Sac

A classic wool coat earns the top spot on this list for its versatility and ability to elevate almost any outfit. It works beautifully layered over workwear or a sweater dress, but it’s just as chic with jeans and a sweater. You can even throw it on over leggings and a hoodie for an effortless off-duty look. Whether you’re heading to the office, out to dinner, or running errands, a wool coat instantly pulls an outfit together and adds a polished finish.

While this isn’t a winter trends list, it’s worth noting that long, relaxed wool coats (such as the one I’m wearing above) are having a major moment right now—especially in chocolate brown. If you’re looking to refresh yours, consider a slightly more relaxed silhouette in a rich brown shade for a modern update that still feels timeless.

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2. Parka or Puffer Coat

Aritzia The Super-Puff Long (M) – splurge (spend option / save option) // Jenni Kayne Flynn (S) (budget option) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (30) // La Canadienne Kiki Boots // similar bag // Burberry Scarf // Tom Ford Sunnies

When it comes to staying warm and dry in messy winter weather, a parka or puffer coat is indispensable. While they’re technically two different styles, the terms are often used interchangeably, so I’m grouping them together here.

Puffers and parkas are the most practical outerwear choice for wet or snowy days and work best with casual outfits. They come in a range of lengths, and I like to have both a full-length option for the coldest days and a shorter style for milder winter weather or everyday errands.

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3. Weather-Proof Boots

La Canadienne Kiki City Dry^™ Waterproof Booties

Cold climates call for weather-resistant boots that can handle snow and rain. I like to have a few pairs of fashionable boots with weather-resistant finishes that still feel polished enough for everyday wear. Brands like Blondo, Aquatalia, and La Canadienne are known for their waterproof leather and suede styles that strike a nice balance between practicality and style.

For more rugged, ultra-casual days, brands like Sorel and UGG offer functional designs with a modern edge. I rarely need full-on snow boots, but I always keep a pair on hand just in case.

UGG Adirondack Boots (8) // North Face Metropolis Parka (M) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) // similar turtleneck Sweater

When it comes to color, I like to have a mix of neutrals—black, grey, taupe, and shades of brown are all versatile options that work with a wide range of outfits.

Style tip: matching your boots to your hair color is an easy way to create a cohesive look by “bookending” your outfit. And as always, these are just guidelines—wear what makes you feel good and fits your personal style.

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4. Leather or Suede Sneakers

adidas Handball Spezial (8) // Madewell The Alonzo Coat (S) // Jenni Kayne Fisherman Sweater (S) (budget option) // MOTHER Lil Kick It (30)

For winter days when you don’t feel like wearing boots, sneakers are a great option for casual looks. Leather and suede styles tend to hold up better to the elements than canvas, and they’re warmer and feel more seasonally appropriate. Sneaker boots are another great choice for colder climates, offering the warmth and protection of boots with the comfort of sneakers.

While there’s always a place for classic white sneakers, shades of beige and brown feel especially current this season and pair beautifully with winter neutrals. Shearling lining and shearling accents are also popular, adding extra warmth while still keeping the look casual and wearable.

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5. Non-Distressed Jeans

AGOLDE Harper Straight (29) // EVEREVE Wesley Plaid Coat (S) // similar cashmere crewneck (M) (budget option) // Sam Edelman Saige Bootie (8.5) // Clare V Petite Moyen Messenger // Tom Ford Sunnies

Jeans are a year-round wardrobe staple, so of course they earn a spot on this list. In winter, I gravitate toward full-length or ankle-length styles since they feel more seasonally appropriate and pair easily with boots and sneakers. I also skip ripped or distressed denim this time of year—they’re less practical in the cold and can feel out of place with winter footwear.

When it comes to washes, I like to keep a mix of blue shades in rotation, but I always include black and usually grey denim in my winter wardrobe. These darker tones feel especially seasonal and are incredibly versatile.

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6. Cozy Sweaters

Gap Factory Fair Isle Mockneck (S) // MOTHER Dazzler (30) // Tom Ford Wallace Sunglasses

Of course, you’ll need something on top to pair with your jeans, and cozy knitwear is my go-to because it keeps me warm and is incredibly versatile. Wear it with trousers or a skirt for work, jeans and sneakers for the weekend, or jeans and heels for date night—you get the idea. It’s also easy to layer under or over, depending on the style.

I like to keep a variety of necklines on hand, and I’m a huge fan of cashmere—nothing compares to its softness and warmth. That said, for anyone who’s sensitive to wool, I’ve included some great non-wool options below.

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7. Sweater Dresses

similar sweater dress // Andrew Marc Wool Coat (S) // Spanx tights // similar knee high boots // similar hoops

When I want to wear a dress in the winter, sweater dresses are my go-to because they’re warm, stylish, and incredibly easy to wear. Unlike lighter fabrics, they provide the coziness you need on cold days. I like to pair them with knee-high boots and tights for a refined look, and on especially chilly days, layering a long coat over top adds warmth and a polished finish.

Tip: I always wear a this slip under my sweater dresses. It helps them skim the body for a smoother silhouette, prevents clinging, and keeps them from sticking to tights.

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8. Tights & Socks

Target Striped Crew Socks // Birkenstock Boston Rivet

Tights and socks may seem like small details, but they make a big difference in how wearable your winter outfits feel. I especially like the striped crew socks from Target this year; I wear them regularly with clogs and sneakers.

I also keep a pair of knee-high Smartwool socks on hand for ankle boots. They prevent the top of the boots from chafing against my legs, add warmth, and don’t make my feet feel sweaty. And for a sockless look, the Sheec Ankle Boot Socks are a game-changer.

Tights are a must with dresses in winter, and they can also be layered under jeans for extra warmth on especially cold days. For an opaque option, I like the Spanx Shaping Mid-Thigh Tight-End Tights (size up if in between; I wear the C). For a splurge, the Wolford Individual 10 are beautiful for a sheer black or skin-tone option, and the Falke Shelina 12-Denier Ultrasheer Tights are perfect for formal occasions. I also keep a pair of nude fishnets for when I want to add a little texture to an outfit.

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9. Scarves, Gloves & Hats

similar coat here and here // Barbour Tartan Cashmere Scarf // Madewell Shopper Tote // AG Brinley (29) (budget option) // Dolce Vita Faint H20 (8.5) // Tom Ford sunnies – ON SALE!

Scarves, gloves, and hats play a big role in making winter outfits feel both warm and pulled together, but they’re an easy category to overlook. I recommend setting aside a little time to go through what you already own—pull out anything that looks tired or isn’t serving you anymore, and consider adding a couple of fresh options to your lineup.

This time of year, I often get asked: Are scarves in style?

While scarves as a fashion accessory can go in and out of favor, as a cold-weather essential, wool and cashmere scarves are always appropriate—and often necessary. Styles do evolve, of course, so it’s worth paying attention to what’s showing up in stores, especially if you’re looking to refresh yours. I rounded up a bunch of current options below.

Gloves are another winter must-have, and tech-friendly styles are truly one of those small upgrades that make a big difference. Leather gloves—especially cashmere-lined pairs—add a classic, refined touch, while knit gloves are great for everyday wear and easy to toss in a bag. Having both on hand makes getting out the door in winter that much easier.

Hats and beanies are also worth keeping in the mix, especially on really cold or windy days. A simple wool beanie or a classic knit hat adds warmth without overpowering an outfit and is an easy way to finish off a winter look.

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10. Tech-Friendly Gloves

similar gloves

Tech-friendly gloves might just be one of the best inventions of the 21st century! Not only do they keep your fingers warm and connected, but they’re also a stylish way to finish off a winter look. I personally love cashmere-lined leather gloves like the ones linked above, but knit gloves are another great option to keep on hand.

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To keep this list focused, I left out categories like leggings and loungewear, since they’re not a big priority for me personally. That said, everyone’s lifestyle is different. Depending on how you spend your days, you may also want to include non-denim pants, blouses, button-ups, or elevated sweatshirts and pullovers in your winter wardrobe. I don’t rely on these pieces as heavily, but I keep a few on hand for variety.

I hope this post is helpful! It’s not meant to be an exhaustive list, but it is a great place to start when building or refreshing a winter wardrobe.

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