We’ve made it to a brand-new year, and if—after a week of relaxing and indulging (as we hope)—updating your winter wardrobe is the last thing on your mind, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Enter the January starter pack: all the fashion staples you need to get through the month feeling both cosy and chic. Icy temperatures and grey days aren’t exactly inspiring when it comes to outfit planning, but with these pieces on hand, you’ll feel ready to take on whatever the month throws your way.
What does it take to be a winter staple? Let alone one for January? Well, it needs to tick two boxes: 1. It adds to your outfit in a stylistic sense and 2. It's functional. It's just a fact that we don't have as much free rein in the first months of the year—so if we have to err on the side of functional, it might as well look cute too. The best way of embracing this is through items like puffer coats and hats that have a fashionable twist (like coats featuring a fresh pattern or hats in a sleek material). You also want pieces that fit the season and the rest of your closet, such as cashmere jumpers and dark-wash jeans that match your winter palette. It might feel like a lot, but we've selected just five pieces to do the job.
Ready for your January 2026 starter pack? Scroll on for the five staples you’ll be reaching for all month.
5 Staples for Your January 2026 Starter Pack:
1. A Chic Hat
Style Notes: I love a beanie as much as the next person, but when you're wearing some kind of head covering all winter long, it's nice to switch it up. Pill box hats, fur-lined caps and bouclé bucket hats are all fun ways to make your winter accessories feel more exciting throughout January and into February. I personally love Marianne's sleek leather hat with black shearling—it looks perfect with black wool coats and leather jackets.
Shop Chic Hats:
Just like Marianne's chic hat.
I love the retro feel of this hat. It's very 1960s.
I've been leaning into snoods and hoods this winter too. They're functional and stylish at the same time.
2. Cashmere Jumper
Style Notes: Nothing brings warmth and a luxe touch to your outfit quite like cashmere. There are so many options nowadays from both the high street and designers. You can opt for something like COS's iconic cashmere chunky crew neck or copy Anouk's look and choose a brushed cashmere jumper.
Shop Cashmere Jumpers:
This iconic jumper from COS is a must for any January capsule wardrobe. It comes in so many colours.
If you love Anouk's brushed jumper as much as I do, this version from Hush is a chic option.
Rise Fall is another brand to have on your radar when it comes to excellent cashmere knits.
3. Printed Puffer Coat
Style Notes: A quick way to make January feel more fun and joyful is through a printed puffer. This cuts through the sea of black and navy winter coats that, although are just as great, aren't nearly as interesting. Jessica's cropped gingham version is so stylish and has a timelessness to it. But there are numerous prints and patterns to choose from that fit your personal taste.
Shop Printed Puffers:
Varley has some of the cosiest outerwear, and this check puffer is now on my wish list.
Checked puffers are a micro trend that has staying power.
Another checked one I love.
4. Dark Wash Denim
Style Notes: What white jeans are to summer outfits, dark indigo jeans are to your winter ensembles. A deep shade of denim pairs well with outerwear and jumpers in similar shades, but they're equally as nice with a bright white cardigan or colourful knit. Plus, as Lizzy's look shows, dark denim feels so elevated and chic in an outfit. They're the kind of jeans you can wear for errands and going out.
Shop Dark Wash Denim:
Wide leg is always a good idea, and I like the pockets on the front of this pair.
I've owned this pair for several years now and they still have their deep colour.
I'm a huge fan of this almost-black blue shade from Reformation.
5. Go-With-Everything Boots
Style Notes: There are boots, and then there are versatile, go-with-everything boots, of which Marilyn's are the latter. They're an essential for January, and to ensure they fit under this category, I recommend choosing boots with a low-to-medium-sized heel and in a neutral tone. You'll get the most out of these styles, whether you decide to keep them more casual and pair them with jeans or elevate them with a knit dress or tailored suit.
Shop Boots:
Forever boots.
A gorgeous pair if you prefer a square toe.
An investment that will absolutely pay off over the years.