If, like me, you’ve been reading Who What Wear religiously for the past decade, then you know that nothing is boring about great basics. Just a bit shy of “uniform dressing,” without committing completely to a capsule wardrobe, a closet full of just a few winter basics is all that’s needed to get through the season in style.
That’s not to say you need to wear them all at once—in fact, we suggest mixing at matching these key winter basics with whatever you already have on hand. That’s the point, right? Great basics go with everything and can be worn regularly without compromising your personal style.
This season, we recommend shopping for (and perhaps investing in) these five simple wardrobe staples: a camel-colored coat, classic black blazer, chunky white knit sweater, straight-leg jeans, and Chelsea boots. That’s it! And, if you already have a few of these items at your disposal, great — do some quick “girl math” and use that savings to invest in a top-quality piece that you’ll be happy about wearing for years to come. Ready? Let’s shop.
Cozy turtleneck sweaters comprise approximately 50% of my winter wardrobe.
When shopping for a classic cable knit, choose a slightly more oversize fit so you can layer as needed.
This classic cable-knit gets bonus points for blouson-inspired sleeves.
I’m obsessed with this eye-catching sweater from the recently launched Anna October x J.Crew collab.
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a great-looking camel coat.
But you totally can if you want to…
Ralph Lauren’s top coats are a classic winter staple in the north east.
J.Crew makes excellent coats; we love the leather collar detail on this one.
Find a fitted blazer in a fabric that can be worn year-round.
Relaxed-fit blazers are ideal for wearing over thicker sweaters.
Double-breasted designs deserve the best buttons.
Think a blazer feels too corporate? We love this more casual design styled with rolled-up sleeves.
You truly cannot go wrong with an excellent pair of jeans from the Gap. We are especially fond of the ’90s style in a dark wash.
There are so many different sizes and shapes of Madewell jeans that you’re sure to find the perfect fit in any category.
Try tucking thinner sweaters into the front of high-waist jeans for a simple styling trick.
