8 Closet Essentials For Chic City Style This Winter
On cold, dark mornings, there’s nothing quite like embracing fashion’s power to lift your spirits. From blissfully soft wardrobe foundations to trending finishing touches, these eight seasonal staples will make light work of winter dressing, says COLLEEN ROSS
An oversized coat
When it comes to forever buys, a winter coat is often the biggest. Trust us: something flawlessly tailored in an oversized shape and long in length is the answer. Keep things cool, classic and refined with Toteme’s refined shearling design – the cocooning shape and versatile funnel-neck collar will add polish to any outfit. Elsewhere, fans of earthy neutrals will love the forest-green hue of Róhe’s wool and alpaca-blend ‘Leandra’ coat – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive. As always, the timeless shade pairs effortlessly with blue jeans, but it also looks chic with chocolate-brown tailoring.
A suede bag
If you’re looking for a new-season investment bag, there’s really only one material to consider – suede. Not only does it look and feel beautiful, but it adds texture and depth to outfits, elevating everything from knitwear to denim. Bottega Veneta’s prized ‘Campana’ bag comes in a seasonless tan hue, while Métier’s classic ‘Private Eye’ tote comes in a generous size with clever internal and external pockets to keep your daily essentials organized. Perfect whether you’re traveling or commuting, Saint Laurent’s ‘Jamie’ style is the epitome of pared-back luxury and a sophisticated choice for the office.
A maxi skirt
Even in the face of blustery weather, the street-style set is remaining loyal to maxi skirts, from A-line to figure-skimming. Both styles are just the thing to wear with sweaters or fitted jersey staples, and pencil skirts – such as Khaite’s zebra-print ‘Loxley’ design (as seen on Shailene Woodley) and Tom Ford’s satin-crepe style – are dominating social feeds. Another stunning day-to-night option is Alaïa’s navy rib-knitted style. Wear yours to dinner with a buttoned cardigan and heeled knee-high boots.
Knee-high boots
Boots are essential for any cold-weather wardrobe, and this season, animal-print styles specifically are reigning supreme. Exclusive to NET-A-PORTER, Jimmy Choo’s ‘Maxima’ pair are crafted from snake-effect leather and rest on kitten heels, while Bottega Veneta’s suede ‘James’ boots feature braided straps and silver-toned triangular accents – both styles are perfect for everyday. Alternatively, for something with after-dark appeal, look to Saint Laurent’s ‘Jill’ style in glossy burgundy leather. Pull on yours to wear with a split-hem denim skirt, or a mini skirt and sheer tights.
Straight-leg jeans
When it comes to finding your go-to denim, you can’t go wrong with straight-leg jeans in tried-and-tested washes. Agolde’s mid-rise style features light distressing for a vintage feel, while Frame’s ‘The Vertical’ pair come in a trending dark-indigo wash. Set to be a bestseller, Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Delfina’ pair have a vintage black wash that’s easy to dress up or down. Remember, every wash cycle affects the fit and feel of denim – that’s why aficionados (and sustainability experts) swear by freezing their jeans between laundry days.
A classic turtleneck
The late Diane Keaton was the ultimate poster girl for this knitwear staple, both on screen and in real life, once revealing to fans that she “forever and always will be a turtleneck kind of gal”. Taking the icon’s fashion legacy as proof, it’s an easy mindset to back. Plain, striped, colorful… there’s no hard-and-fast rule this sweater season, except that materials matter. La Ligne’s timeless ‘Archie’ sweater is spun from a blend of wool and cashmere for warmth and softness, while Altuzarra’s traditional black-and-white Fair Isle sweater has a relaxed fit. Style yours beneath a chic blazer.
A winter dress
A knitted dress will slot right into any capsule closet. The best part? They’re so easy to style. Proenza Schouler’s ‘Romi’ dress has been crafted in an off-the-shoulder silhouette in classic beige that’s great for day events and will go with all your favorite accessories. Elsewhere, Alaïa’s burgundy-red maxi dress falls to a sweeping mermaid hem, making it a gorgeous choice for evening and winter weddings. Alternatively, Tove’s ‘Eira’ maxi is made from soft jersey that’s gathered through the bodice and looks equally chic styled with knee-high boots or elegant pumps.
Essential winter accessories
Come winter, the finishing touches are non-negotiable – as well as adding color and texture to a look, they are crucial for braving the elements. We love practical yet pretty scarves, which instantly lift a wintry color palette. Loewe’s cashmere-blend style, for example, is patterned with the brand’s tonal Anagram emblems. An alpaca-blend beanie, such as The Elder Statesman’s vibrant ‘Thistle’ style, is a sensible yet joyful choice that will brighten up cold dark morning commutes. Finally, for a little evening glamour, Nour Hammour’s tactile suede gloves are ultra-sophisticated and feel like an indulgent treat for cold hands.
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