Happy Friday, friends! Winter weather is in full swing here in Philly, and with all of the after-Christmas sales happening right now, it’s the perfect time to update my Winter Wardrobe Essentials for 2025 with fresh links and ideas.
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To be clear, this is different from the Winter Fashion Trends that I shared a few weeks ago. Those are the colors, styles, and silhouettes that are having a moment this season, and they’re good to keep in mind as you shop. But this list focuses on the timeless staples that form the foundation of a stylish and functional winter wardrobe. If you’re missing any of these (or if they need a refresh), you might struggle to put outfits together. I hope this is helpful as you’re shopping those after-Christmas sales!
10 Timeless Pieces to Keep You Warm and Chic All Season
NOTE: This post is geared to those of us who live in colder climates. If your weather is more moderate, my Fall Wardrobe Essentials might be more relevant, but you may still find some helpful tips here.
We all have different lifestyles needs, so I try to keep this list fairly general, but feel free to tweak these items to suit your needs. I spend most days at home, so my winter wardrobe leans more casual, with just a few dressier options for special occasions. And remember: considering cost per wear helps you make smart choices and get the most out of your budget!
1. Classic Wool Coat
J.Crew Daphne Topcoat (6) // Vince sweater (M) // MOTHER Weekender (29) // Veronica Beard booties (8.5)
A classic wool coat earns the top spot on this list for its versatility and ability to elevate almost any outfit. It’s perfect for layering over workwear or a sweater dress, but it’s equally chic with jeans and a sweater. You can even throw it on with leggings and a hoodie for that effortless off-duty vibe. Whether you’re heading to the office, out to dinner, or running errands, adding a wool coat will keep you looking polished and put together.
STYLE TIP: Matching your coat to your hair color is an easy way to elevate your look. I tend to favor black coats because they complement my hair, while blondes might prefer camel or winter white. Of course, there’s no reason why you can’t have both! I wear my camel J.Crew Daphne Topcoat quite a lot, but I wouldn’t want to be without my black Andrew Marc Bouclé Wool Coat.
Shop Wool Coats:
2. Parka or Puffer Coat
similar The North Face parka (M) // UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie – on sale // MOTHER Dazzler (29) (similar on sale) // camel turtleneck (M) – on sale
When it comes to staying warm and dry in messy winter weather, a parka or puffer coat is indispensable. While technically two different types of coats, the terms are often used interchangeably, so I’m grouping them together for the purposes of this post. (For more details, check out my 2025 Winter Outerwear Guide.)
Puffers and parkas are the most practical outerwear choice for wet or snowy days and pair best with casual looks. They come in a variety of lengths, and I like to have both a full-length option for the coldest days and a shorter style for milder weather.
I rely on my full-length The North Face down parka for the coldest days, and I just got the Aritzia The Super Puff™ Mid in the Fluent Taupe for Christmas; I can’t wait to add it to my rotation. The Gap Factory ColdControl Puffer Jacket is a solid budget-friendly option, and my Abercrombie vegan leather puffer is my go-to for winter date nights.
Shop Puffer Coats:
3. Weather-Proof Boots
similar Blondo boots – on sale at Nordstrom! // Sanctuary Luxe Faux Fur Jacket (S) – on sale // black sweater (S) – on sale // PAIGE denim (29) // Blondo boots (8) – on sale
Cold climates call for weather-resistant boots that can handle snow and rain. Blondo makes waterproof leather and suede boots that are both practical and stylish, while Sorel offers rugged, functional designs with a modern edge for ultra-casual looks. For ultimate warmth and comfort, the UGG Adirondack is a standout—it’s lightweight, incredibly cozy, and currently on sale!
When it comes to colors, I like to keep a mix of neutrals on hand—black, grey, taupe, and cognac are all versatile options. Similar to the coat tip, matching your boots to your hair color is an easy way to create a cohesive look by “bookending” your outfit. But as always, these are just suggestions—wear what makes you feel good and fits your personal style!
Shop Weather-Proof Boots:
4. Leather or Suede Sneakers
adidas Spezial (9) // Jenni Kayne Fisherman Sweater (S) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) (similar on sale)
For those winter days when you don’t feel like wearing boots, sneakers are perfect for casual looks. Leather and suede sneakers hold up better to the elements than canvas, and they’re warmer and look more seasonal.
I still love my VEJA Esplars this time of year, but I’ve also added the adidas Spezial and Vince Oasis to my rotation, and I really like having a suede option for winter. Sneaker boots are another great choice for colder climates, combining the warmth and protection of boots with the comfort of sneakers. I’ve rounded up a variety of options below.
Shop Leather & Suede Fashion Sneakers:
5. Non-Distressed Jeans
AG Mari (on sale at Saks) (29) // Jenni Kayne Flynn (S) // similar loafer mules
Jeans are a year-round wardrobe staple, so of course they earn a spot on this list. In the winter, I gravitate toward full or ankle-length styles since they feel more seasonal and pair easily with boots and sneakers. I also skip ripped or distressed styles this time of year, as they’re not as practical in the cold and can look out of place with winter footwear.
When it comes to washes, I like to keep a variety of blue shades in rotation, but I always include black and usually grey denim in my winter wardrobe. These darker tones feel more seasonal and are incredibly versatile. Black jeans offer a sleek, polished look that works for both casual outings and dressier occasions, while grey jeans have a softer, more relaxed vibe that still feels modern and fresh. If you don’t already own a pair of black or grey jeans, they’re a great way to add depth and versatility to your winter wardrobe.
Shop My Favorite Jeans for Winter:
6. Cozy Sweaters
A quality sweater is one of the most versatile pieces in a winter wardrobe. Pair 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.
In fall and winter, a sweater with jeans and boots or sneakers is my daily uniform, so I’ve built up quite the collection. 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. (Check out my Cashmere Sweater Reviews from last year for more details!) For those sensitive to wool, I’ve included some great non-wool options below.
Shop some of my favorite winter sweaters:
7. Sweater Dresses
Sanctuary So Soft Sweater Dress (M) // Dolce Vita Raj Boots (8) // Spanx tights (C) // Andrew Marc Bouclé Wool Coat (S)
When I want to wear a dress in the winter, sweater dresses are my go-to because they’re warm, stylish, and so easy to wear. Unlike lighter fabrics, sweater dresses provide the coziness you need on cold days without sacrificing polish. Pair them with knee-high boots for a refined look, or with ankle boots and tights for a more casual vibe. On especially chilly days, layer a long coat over top for added warmth.
TIP: I always wear 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.
Shop Sweater Dresses:
8. Tights & Socks
J.Crew cashmere blend trouser socks // VEJA Esplar (39)
Tights are a must with dresses in the winter, and they can also be layered under jeans for extra warmth. For an opaque look, 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 lovely 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 on hand for when I want to add some texture.
As for socks, I usually wear the J.Crew cashmere blend trouser socks or Smartwool cable crew socks with ankle boots, and even with sneakers on especially cold days. For a sockless look, the Sheec Ultra Thin Quarter Socks are a game-changer.
9. Scarves
Andrew Marc Bouclé Wool Coat (S) // Burberry scarf (budget option) // ivory sweater (option) (S) // similar jeans (29) // LØCI sneakers (8)
One question I often get this time of year is: Are scarves in style? As an outfit accessory, scarves can go in and out of fashion, but as a cold-weather essential, they’re always appropriate. Of course, as with anything fashion-related, styles do evolve, so it’s worth checking out what’s trending in stores that reflect your personal style.
Scarves come in a range of price points, but wool and cashmere are usually the warmest options. For those with wool allergies, I’ve also included a few non-wool alternatives to consider.
Shop Winter Scarves:
10. Tech-Friendly Gloves
U|R W Spliced Leather Gloves // old Rebecca Minkoff bag // old scarf & coat
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.
Shop Tech-Friendly Gloves:
Bonus Mention: Non-Denim Pants
Vince Stitch Front Seamed Pants (M) // similar booties // AllSaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket (8) // similar turtleneck
While I often wear jeans seven days a week, I wouldn’t want to be without a pair of black pants in the winter. And if your workplace doesn’t allow jeans, you might need more than one pair of non-denim pants to get through the season.
In order to cap this list at 10 categories—or 11, if you count these pants—I left out leggings and loungewear since they’re not a big priority for me. That said, I know many women like to have a good assortment of those as well. Depending on your lifestyle, you might also want to add blouses, button-ups, or elevated sweatshirts and pullovers to your list. I don’t rely on them much, but I keep a few on hand for variety.
I hope this post is helpful! It’s not an exhaustive list, of course, but it’s a good place to start.
