I'm a Fashion Expert—Here Are 30 Elevated Pieces Worth Buying This Winter

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

I've worked in the fashion industry as a stylist and editor for close to a decade, so I’d say by now I’m pretty confident in spotting a great wardrobe buy when I see one. Over the years, I’ve seen trends and cult items come and go, experimenting with some along the way. No doubt they were fun while they lasted, but these days, I’m much more about elevated pieces that I know will stand the test of time, whether that means pinpointing the most expensive-looking high-street finds or saving up for luxury pieces I truly love. Each season, I curate my ultimate wish list of classic items worth investing in and share it with you here. So, as we head into the depths of winter, keep scrolling to see my classic picks for the months (and years) ahead. 

I have to say I think winter is my favourite season of all. The crisp blue sky days, and the chance to wear all my beloved coats (I'm outerwear obsessed). Not to mention the festive period and all that comes with it. It’s also the season in which classic wardrobe pieces really shine. In summer it's all about pretty dresses and experimenting with brights, but I take so much comfort in returning to a neutral colour palette of browns, greys, creams and black in autumn and winter—it’s much more me. Not only do these tonal shades reflect the cosy feel of the season, but they also make your wardrobe work harder since they work as a capsule and can be layered up pretty effortlessly. 

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing )

Speaking of layers—they are, of course, the key to chic cold-weather dressing. And if you invest in good classic layering items like polo necks, blazers, jeans, coats and boots you'll be able to rewear them in different ways year after year, and through other seasons separately as well. That's why it’s often in winter that I end up investing the most in key buys because I have confidence I'll get my wear out of them over the years. 

This year, I’m especially taken by all the gorgeous wool coats around (I told you I'm a woman obsessed), and it might be finally time for me to invest in Totême's newly restocked fringed jacket before it sells out again. If it’s not that, then it will certainly be one of Raey's oversized numbers, which I continue to see on the best-dressed influencers year after year. For 2023, I'm also in the market for a new handbag—one that elevates all my outfits, and makes my high street pieces look expensive. I can't stop thinking about Loewe's Luna in particular—it's roomy yet sleek, and it's not been overexposed on my Instagram feed, so it won't date quickly. 

On the high street, everyone in the industry is talking about how great Arket's knitwear collection is (I can attest to the quality myself), and H&M's latest minimalist drop also has my full attention. As these affordable brands consciously lean into timeless style, I can tell you that teamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing 's saved folders continue to grow daily. 

Keep scrolling to see what else is on a fashion expert's wish list as we head into the new year. Of course, I won’t be buying all of this myself, but rest assured even just one of these items will add timeless value to your existing wardrobe. 

Shop My Autumn Wish List

Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing brand.

Emily has worked forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, teamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.