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You can always count on an assortment of staples to put together a reliable uniform look. That’s the thing about everyday pieces, they can be worn with just about everything in your closet. When it comes to a capsule winter wardrobe, the same rules apply, though the essentials are a bit different–more suited to braving strong winds and freezing temperatures.
Vogue’s Capsule Winter Wardrobe Wishlist:
- The Fabulous Faux Fur: The Frankie Shop Joni double-breasted faux fur coat, $485
- The Warming Winter Dress: Mango knitted turtleneck dress, $100
- The Fair Isle Sweater: Polo Ralph Lauren Fair Isle knitted sweater, $430
- The Puffer Jacket: Tory Burch classic down puffer, $498
- The Classic Yet Cool Corduroy: Agolde low-slung baggy corduroy pants, $250
- The Lug-Sole Boot: Ganni recycled-rubber Chelsea boots, $295
- The Heavyweight Wool Pant: Favorite Daughter The Agnes wide-leg pants, $258
- The Après-Ski-Approved Legging: Toteme Cork stretch-jersey leggings, $200
- The Slim-Fitting Turtleneck: Everlane The Supima® Micro-Rib Turtleneck, $50
- The Winter Accessory: Loewe fringed color-block mohair-blend scarf, $390
A roster of versatile sweaters and foundational layering pieces, like a turtleneck, is key for cold days. And like your pleated trousers for spring and fall, a pair of tailored pants made from warmer materials (think: wool) will be your new go-to. You’ll also want to have a dress that can extend itself into many outfits, think: a sweater dress great for a soirée and a snow day, plus outerwear that can comfortably sit atop even your heaviest layering. Our favorites include fabulous faux fur coats from Toteme and The Frankie Shop for instant chic, plus glossy puffer jackets From Tory Burch and The North Face that transition from the streets to the slopes seamlessly. Après-ski-approved leggings from Leset and Uniqlo are easy yet elegant, whether tucked into a winter boot or worn underneath a baggy pair of corduroys as an extra base. We can’t forget about those classic winter accessories, either, like a chic leather glove from Banana Republic or Loewe’s fringed mohair scarf. Did we also mention that either of these also make a can’t-go-wrong gift this holiday season?
Complete your capsule winter wardrobe with our guide to winter’s must-have style essentials, below.
Fabulous Faux Fur Coats
This winter’s ultimate It item is undoubtedly the fabulous faux fur coat, worn adoringly by both fashion girls and Vogue editors alike. Options from Toteme and H&M are true-to-the-classics, while belted faux furs from The Frankie Shop and Mackage offer up a cinched-waist silhouette that brings definition to an otherwise voluminous silhouette.
Warming Winter Dresses
A casual knit or wool dress is a one-and-done piece that makes everyday winter dressing effortless. Opt for Mango’s turtleneck dress or Toteme’s flannel frock, both of which go from commute-to-cocktail all too chicly. For more of a splurge, consider Khaite’s festive Fair Isle find or even Proenza Schouler’s striped style.
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Festive Fair Isle Sweaters
The Fair Isle sweater is never not in style. Khaite’s button-up cardigan is snuggly as it stylish, while Gap’s funnel-neck find is a great under-$100 find. With a pop of cherry red, Polo Ralph Lauren’s crewneck is sure to brighten up any winter blues, while &Daughter’s cardigan is a minimalist must-have.
Puffer Jackets
Padded-to-perfection, blanket-like puffer jackets from Banana Republic, Moncler, and The North Face are sure to fit your every winter dressing need. The latter is especially beloved by celebs and fashion girls for its generously-sized, extra-warm design. Also on our winter wish list is Tory Burch’s bright red puffer, which comes complete with a glossy finish to standout on the slopes or the city streets.
Cozy, Chic Corduroys
A slouchy pair of corduroys is not only cozy, but super-chic, too. Dark brown pairs from Agolde and Dries Van Noten can transition seamlessly from work to weekend, while options from J.Crew and Everlane will appeal to the trend-curious shopping on a budget.
Stompy Lug-Sole Boots
Beloved for its toothy rubber sole, the lug-sole boot is ideal for navigating inclement weather. And while it does have roots in functionality, that doesn’t mean lug-soles aren’t great for everyday wear or even special occasions, say with a tailored trouser or knit dress. Highlights include Chloé’s shearling-lined pair, The Row’s zip boot—an editor favorite—and Ganni’s waterproof ankle bootie.
Heavyweight Wool Trousers
The pleated tailored trouser is still a wonderful option for the winter months, as it wears well with boots and sweaters. We recommend, however, styles in heavier and warmer fabrics like cozy flannels or brushed wool to keep the cold air out.
Après-Ski-Approved Leggings
A sleek pair of black leggings is a foundational layering essential in any winter-in-the-city outfit. Classic ankle-grazing pairs from Toteme and Uniqlo are après-ski-approved, while Leset’s stirrup style is effortlessly cool for the workplace. We can’t forget about Nili Lotan’s cashmere leggings either, a stylishly warm staple.
Slim-Fitting Turtlenecks
Don’t start an outfit without one. A close-fitting soft cotton jersey or cashmere-blend turtleneck will ensure a warm base with a stylish layering component underneath a button-up.
The Accessories Station
No capsule winter wardrobe would be complete without a cold-weather accessory (or two…or three). You’ll find us slipping into Banana Republic’s burgundy leather gloves during the week, then Rag & Bone’s printed mittens on holiday. Complete your look with Loewe’s viral mohair-blend scarf and a chic cashmere beanie from Johnstons of Elgin.
