If the weather outside is anything to go by, it's safe to say we're now in "proper autumn", which means it'll be time to switch to winter mode soon. One day, you're living in your trench, and the next, you're questioning whether your scarf is thick enough. I'm in that rotation phase: daylight in transitional layers, and evenings in something decidedly more cosy. The trick is having a few hero pieces that can nudge your wardrobe from crisp-leaf season into freezing-rain season. Think a snuggly cable-knit sweater over a tee, a jacket that's layering-friendly and a warm beanie you don't mind wearing on repeat. These aren't just pretty extras—they're the pieces I'll be reaching for when mornings bite and nights stay long. This is why Free People is my secret weapon.
Yes, Free People is fun, but what I love is how many of the brand's pieces feel like they were made for these exact transitional periods. The brand's jeans and trainers regularly show up in our shopping edits (and on a few of our editors, too), and the knitwear and jackets mix personality and practicality in a way that gives them longevity in a wardrobe. I'm not just window-shopping here, I'm curating. I'll be leaning on these pieces when my diary fills with dinners, chilly walks, cosy weekend plans and festive nights out.
I've spent the morning perusing the Free People site and found more than a few items that hit the mark for me. Some are investment pieces, others are gentler on the wallet, but all of them speak to the seasonal wardrobe shift I'm making. There's a knit that will layer beautifully under your existing autumn wool coat, a faux-shearling reversible jacket to snuggle up in with your trusty scarf and loafers that will elevate your denim rotation. I've picked every single buy with versatility and stylish energy in mind. Without spoiling too much more (we'll get there), these 18 pieces are forming the backbone of my winter-forward plan. Scroll down to see what made the cut.
Shop My Favourite Winter Pieces From Free People:
This reversible jacket is at the top of my winter wish list.
A French-woman staple I think every wardrobe needs.
Dark-wash denim will see you through this season and beyond.
A winter wardrobe staple.
Just add a pair of ribbed socks, and you're good to go.
This bag will go with so many of my winter looks.
The blazer that I know I'll be reaching for all season.
Cashmere jumpers are the real MVP item of the season.
We're all about to see the return of the pirate-boot trend this winter.
A brown suede bag? Count me in.
I clicked on these so fast.
Winter is incomplete without a neutral cable-knit jumper.
If you ask me, these are some of the best barrel-leg jeans in the business.
This looks so designer.
Blazers are a capsule-wardrobe essential, and I especially love this cropped version.
These are so designer-coded.
So chic.
The chunky laces are so fun.
