20+ Winter Wardrobe Essentials That Will Make the Most of Your Closet

As temperatures drop, it’s time to start updating your winter wardrobe. An excellent place to start is by investing in a few high-quality pieces that you can combine for maximum impact. Whether you are looking for statement outerwear or timeless classics, there are plenty of wardrobe essentials.

As a fashion stylist, I have put together 20+ items that no winter wardrobe should be without. By having the right pieces, you can ensure you look your best throughout the season. Read on to discover must-have items for winter, from cozy knits to versatile trousers. So get ready to update your wardrobe and stay warm this winter! Let’s get started.

20+ Winter Wardrobe Essentials 

Classic Wool Coat

A classic wool coat is a timeless and versatile winter wardrobe essential. Ideal for chilly days, a good quality wool coat can keep you warm without sacrificing your style. Look for a coat with simple lines and neutral colors, such as grey or navy blue, that can be easily worn with various outfits. 

This MaxMara Wool and Silk Coat is an excellent option for a classic winter coat. You can match it with denim jeans, trousers, and skirts for a chic look. Add some extra warmth and protection with a scarf or wool-lined gloves. 

Cashmere Sweater

Add some luxury to your winter style with a cashmere sweater. Soft and lightweight, yet exceptionally warm, cashmere is the perfect fabric for cooler temperatures. The key to creating a stylish look with cashmere is to choose a classic silhouette and neutral colors, such as navy blue, grey, and black. 

This The Row’s Stepney wool and cashmere-blend turtleneck sweater is perfect for creating a timeless look. You can pair it with a skirt or trousers for a chic office look or dress it down with jeans and boots for a more casual style. Add an extra layer of warmth with a wool scarf or a pair of ankle boots. Finish off your look with some statement jewelry for a fashionable winter ensemble. 

Cute Knitwear Set

A cute knitwear set is an essential winter wardrobe staple. Whether you choose a matching two-piece or a coordinating sweater and skirt combo, a knitwear set is a perfect way to stay warm and stylish. Look for a set with classic shapes and neutral colors, such as beige, grey, and navy blue. 

This ASOS DESIGN knit sweater and wide-leg pants set in the cream are the perfect cold-weather option. The style is simple and classic, making it easy to dress for any event. Add a pair of sneakers or ankle boots for a more casual look. Or, if you’re looking for something more formal, slip into some heels and add a pair of earrings for a chic winter ensemble. 

Puffer Coat

No winter wardrobe is complete without a puffer coat. A great way to look stylish and stay warm, a good-quality puffer coat is a must-have for the chillier months. Look for a coat with an oversized fit and classic colors, such as black, navy blue, and grey. 

This Polo Ralph Lauren Leather Puffer Coat is an ideal winter wardrobe essential. It has stylish leather trim and lightweight insulation for maximum warmth. Wear it with your favorite jeans, trousers, or skirt for a cozy and chic look. Alternatively, add some extra layers with a classic wool scarf, gloves, and boots for an ultra-warm winter outfit. 

UGGs

UGGs are the ultimate winter wardrobe essential. Not only do they keep your feet warm and dry, but they also add a touch of style to any look. Look for a classic pair of UGGs in a neutral color, such as chestnut or black that can be worn with various outfits.

These UGG Classic Mini Logo Zip Boots are an excellent option for those chilly days. They feature a genuine sheepskin lining and a zip closure for easy entry. Wear them with jeans, leggings, skirts, or dresses for an effortless winter look. Add a pair of wool-lined gloves and a fashionable hat for extra warmth. 

Go-To Denim

Denim is the go-to winter wardrobe essential. Whether classic skinny jeans or a straight-leg style, denim goes with everything. Look for a pair of dark-wash jeans in a slim or straight fit that you can wear with sweaters, blazers, and jackets. 

These Levi’s 721 High Rise Skinny Jeans in a dark wash are the perfect winter choice. These jeans can be easily dressed up or down and are made with a comfortable stretch fabric. Wear them with a cozy sweater and ankle boots for an easy winter look. Or add extra layers, such as a scarf and beret, for a stylish winter ensemble. 

Cute Beanie

Don’t forget the cute beanie. A great way to top off any winter outfit, a beanie will keep you warm and stylish this winter! Look for a beanie from quality materials such as wool, cashmere, or acrylic. 

Choose a classic and timeless style, such as the Ruslan Baginskiy Hand-embroidered Beanie. Wear it with your favorite coat and scarf for a chic winter look. Or dress it down with jeans and ankle boots for a more casual style. 

Patterned Sweater

Patterned sweaters are a winter wardrobe essential. Look for classic prints in neutral colors like black and white, such as stripes, polka dots, and animal prints. Or go bold with a bright-colored sweater in an abstract pattern. 

This ASOS DESIGN jumper with a scenic pattern is a stylish option for your winter wardrobe. Wear it with skinny blue jeans and UGGs for a casual look. Or dress it up with white tailored trousers and heels for a more polished ensemble. 

Knit Dress

You can’t go wrong with a knit dress for the winter season. Not only is it cozy and comfortable, but it also looks great on its own or layered with an oversized jacket. Look for a classic silhouette that can be dressed up or down, such as an A-line dress or midi-length style. Choose a neutral color, such as black, navy blue, or grey, for maximum versatility. 

This Mango V-Neck Belted Knit Dress is the perfect winter wardrobe essential. The v-neck and belted waist create a flattering silhouette that is sure to be a staple in your wardrobe. Dress it up with heels for a chic evening look, or keep it casual with a pair of UGGs.

Classic Tweed Skirt

A classic tweed skirt is an essential winter wardrobe piece. Tweed material is lightweight and breathable yet extremely warm, making it perfect for the colder months. Choose a skirt with a classic A-line silhouette and neutral colors, such as grey, navy blue, and black. 

This Miu Miu checked tweed skirt is the ideal winter wardrobe staple. It features a flattering A-line silhouette, a high waist, and a zip fastening. Wear it with a crisp white shirt or sweater for an elegant work look. Or style it with a plain t-shirt and ankle boots for a more casual look. 

Trouser-Esque Leggings

Trouser-Esque leggings are the perfect winter wardrobe essential for those days if you need to look stylish yet keep warm. Look for leggings with a thick fabric and a tailored fit that can be worn under dresses, skirts, or tunics. 

These Zella Live In High Waist Leggings are the ideal winter wardrobe staple. They are incredibly comfortable and feature a sturdy fabric with a four-way stretch for a perfect fit. Wear them with a long-sleeved top and ankle boots for an easy winter look. Or style them with a dress or tunic and a pair of heeled boots for a dressier feel. 

Tailored Trousers

You can never go wrong with a pair of tailored trousers for the winter season. Look for neutral-colored trousers and a classic fit that can be easily dressed up or down. Choose wool, tweed, or corduroy trousers for a stylish winter look. 

These J.Crew Full-length wide-leg tuxedo pants in Italian wool are the perfect choice for your winter wardrobe. The full-length and wide legs make them incredibly flattering, while the Italian wool fabric is both luxurious and warm. Wear them with a knitted sweater and ankle boots for a classic winter look. Or add extra layers, such as a quilted jacket and fur-lined gloves, for extra warmth. 

Blanket Scarf

A blanket scarf is a must-have for the winter season. Not only does it keep you warm, but it also adds an extra layer of style to any outfit. Look for a scarf in neutral colors, such as grey or black, that can be easily paired with any look. 

This Brushed blanket scarf in recycled polyester blue is the perfect winter wardrobe essential. It is made of a soft, lightweight fabric with fringe detailing at the edges. Wear it with a long-sleeved dress and ankle boots for an easy winter look. 

Tech Gloves

Tech gloves are a modern winter wardrobe must-have. They keep your hand's warm while also allowing you to use your touchscreen phone or device, making them the perfect accessory for the winter season. Look for gloves in neutral colors, such as black or grey, and a slim fit that can be easily layered under jackets. 

These UGG Women’s W-Seamed Tech Gloves in black are ideal winter wardrobe essentials. They are made of a wool blend fabric with a touchscreen-compatible lining and elasticated cuffs for added comfort. Wear them with any winter ensemble to stay stylish and warm. 

Teddy Coat

You can never go wrong with a teddy coat for the winter season. It adds an extra layer of style and warmth to any outfit, making it the perfect winter wardrobe essential. Look for a coat in neutral colors such as brown, grey, or black and a classic silhouette that can be easily dressed up or down. 

This MaxMara Teddy Beat Coat is the ultimate winter wardrobe essential. It features a soft, comfortable material, an oversized silhouette, and side pockets. Wear it with a long-sleeved dress and ankle boots for an easy winter look. Or style it with tailored trousers and a shirt for a more sophisticated ensemble. 

Statement Pearl Necklace

Complete your winter wardrobe with a statement pearl necklace. Pearl necklaces are classic, timeless pieces that can instantly add an elegant touch to any look. Look for necklaces with classic silhouettes and bold colors like grey or black. 

This Winter Pearl Necklace silver is the perfect winter wardrobe essential. The necklace, made with delicate, interwoven silver droplets, is a show-stopping piece of jewelry from the Art by Kalevala collection. The locking mechanism is artfully blended into the design as a seamless part of the jewelry. Wear it with a crisp white shirt or sweater for an elegant winter look. Or style it with a long-sleeved dress and ankle boots for a more casual style. 

Practical Carryall Bag

A practical carryall bag is essential for completing your winter wardrobe. Look for spacious yet stylish bags that can easily match any outfit. Choose bags in neutral colors such as black, brown, or grey, and look for ones with multiple pockets and plenty of space for all your belongings. 

This Cuyana Classic Easy Tote is the perfect winter wardrobe essential. The spacious tote is made from high-quality leather and lined with luxurious suede. You can fit everything you need, from your laptop and books to your phone and umbrella. Wear it with a long-sleeved top and jeans for a casual winter look, or wear it with a knit sweater and ankle boots. 

Holiday Dress

No winter wardrobe is complete without a festive holiday dress. Look for dresses in bold colors and patterns that will stand out during the holiday season. Choose dresses in classic silhouettes that you can wear year after year and accessorize with statement jewelry to complete your look. 

This MaxMara Stretch tulle dress with sequins is the perfect holiday dress. The dress is made from a lightweight fabric and features fringe detailing at the edges. Wear it with an elegant coat and heeled boots for a classic winter look to celebrate New Year’s Eve!

Winter Pearl Earrings

Complete your look with a pair of winter pearl earrings. Pearl earrings are the perfect accessory for adding a touch of elegance to any outfit. Look for earrings in classic shapes, such as teardrops or rounds, and neutral colors. 

These Mikimoto’s Four Seasons Winter Pearl Earrings are the ideal winter wardrobe essentials. The earrings feature a classic round shape and are accented with white Sapphires for a hint of sparkle. They are made from 18k white gold and have a four-prong setting for a secure fit. Wear them with any winter ensemble to finish your look with subtle elegance. 

All-Black Sunglasses

Finally, no winter wardrobe is complete without a pair of all-black sunglasses. They are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun and add a stylish touch to any look. Look for sunglasses with a classic shape and an all-black frame to keep you looking chic this winter. 

These Celine Triomphe 08 sunglasses are the perfect winter wardrobe essential. The sleek and stylish frames feature black lenses and a silver-tone logo detail at the temple. Wear them with any winter look for added sophistication and protection from the sun. 

Bottom Line

So, what are you waiting for? Start shopping and add these 20+ winter wardrobe essentials to your closet. With the right clothes, you’ll be able to make the most of your existing wardrobe and stay stylish all season long. Do you have any other must-haves that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!