The Go-To Brands For Your Cold-Weather Wardrobe

As the mercury starts to plunge and the fall/winter chill sets in, we naturally start gravitating towards cozy layers that shield us, cocoon-like, from the cooler climate. Heavy-duty fabrics, like sturdy denims, tactile knitwear, buttery leathers and fuzzy shearlings offer us an armor-style take on new-season dressing and provide an opportunity to get sartorially playful — think layering a chunky Aran knit over a business-worthy white shirt or slipping a turtleneck under a chambray button-up for boardroom-to-bar days.

Indeed, fall is the fashion lovers’ playground when it comes to building everyday outfits. While summer is categorized by lightweight layers and minimal hemlines, FW23 is the refresh our minds and wardrobes have been waiting for to hone in on an appreciation for fabrication; employing even the smallest styling trick can elevate a look, creating multitudes of options that makes getting dressed each day a joy.

No winter closet would be complete without some hero investment pieces that promise to be true sartorial allies for the duration of the season and beyond. So, now is the time to let the building blocks of the contemporary wardrobe shine – cue tailored trousers, versatile shirting, and mini dresses that offer a day-to-dark sensibility when paired with flats, heels or boots.

Of course, a good jacket game is essential, and a simple outerwear swap can transform your look — think leather bomber jackets and laid-back denim button-ups from Magda Butrym and Haikure that can dress up jeans or dress down tailoring, and will bring a more casual feel to after-dark looks when paired with mini dresses or silky silhouettes. Elsewhere, Gabriela Hearst’s tactile knit maxi dress is a polished and practical choice that is just as perfect for brunch as it is an elegant evening event.

For fail-safe new-season separates, look to labels like A.L.C. The brand, founded by stylist and designer Andrea Lieberman in 2009, was created to champion hard-working staples that also feature interesting details. The label’s cable-knit sweater is the perfect example: featuring a turtleneck silhouette and crafted using traditional techniques, it looks every inch the classic sweater from the front, but its open-back, lace-up detailing is sure to turn heads. Layer over shirts or T-shirts on cooler days, or wear bare-back to bring a sensual feel to daytime wardrobes.

Slick winter boots will prove an on-rotation hero, too, so choose wisely this coming season because you’ll be rewarded with countless wardrobe mileage. Labels such as Khaite and Staud have your FW23 footwear game all zipped up, with black knee-high boots in leather or suede proving a reliable choice that offers a plethora of styling opportunities. Top tip: opt for a pair with a low, slim heel for an on-trend take that will outlast the current season. Not only are they more easily transitioned from dawn until dusk, but being both comfortable and chic, they also ensure happy feet during days on the go.

No FW23 wardrobe would be complete without a statement overcoat, either. After all, when the temperatures really start to plummet, this is the one closet staple that will be seen by the outer world — and it’s the one garment you’ll want to wrap yourself up in no matter where you’re heading. Coperni’s shearling maxi coat is just the ticket: cozy and undeniably cool, this belted style with oversized proportions will feel suitably slumber while pounding the winter pavements, whether it’s worn over tailoring to the office or slipped over a slinky gown for a refined festive event. See also elongated leather trenches that bring a refined feel to this trans-seasonal staple.

Finally, every capsule closet needs a roster of accessories that can easily transform a look, and an oversized scarf can bring sartorial interest, a pop of color, and added warmth. Meanwhile, a medium-sized handbag from Isabel Marant will prove appropriate on numerous occasions — whether a half-moon, snake-print style or a boxy black number, the Parisian label’s bags are capacious enough to carry essentials on days when you aren’t packing light but can leave your laptop in the office. Slip in makeup and your signature scent to ensure your cold-weather capsule closet really is all wrapped up.

9 closet essentials for chic city style this winter

The FW23 trend report, starring Mette