Whenever I experience trend paralysis—a sense of overwhelm and indecision following a flurry of fresh trends—I overcorrect by focusing purely on classic looks. Basically, I ignore what's ‘in’ and take it back to basics, building outfits around the wardrobe heroes I know and love.
By assembling the outfit foundations with timeless pieces rather than involving trends, you can create a versatile base that allows you to incorporate current touches if desired. In 2024, this could mean adding an oxblood bag or swapping loafers for ballet flats. But at its heart, your outfit will be made up of mainstay items that won't go out of style. Think blue jeans, crew-neck knitwear and black leather boots.
I've come equipped with visual aids in the form of seven polished looks styled by some of Instagram's expert dressers. Take a look at the classic outfits below, then shop the pieces you need to re-create them (if you don't already own them, that is).
7 CLASSIC OUTFITS TO COPY THIS WINTER:
1. Trench Coat + White Tee + Blue Jeans
Style Notes: The trench coat might be enjoying its moment in the trend spotlight, but this is one of those pieces that will never date. History has proven this sophisticated cover-up has enduring appeal—for ease, toss it on over a simple jeans-and-t-shirt formula.
Shop the Look:
When it comes to trench coats, it doesn't get better than Burberry.
A staple for every wardrobe.
I love this mid-blue tone.
Burgundy is another classic that also happens to be on-trend this season.
2. Crew-Neck + Column Skirt + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: It's slouchy sweater season, and we couldn't be happier. Tuck your knit into a straight column-style skirt to create more definition, and add black knee-high boots to elevate the look.
Shop the Look:
This is a sell-out every autumn/winter.
Such a classy piece.
A high-street find you'll be proud to show off.
JW PEI is an editor favourite.
3. Long Coat + Striped Shirt + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: A coat will make up the bulk of your outfit for the next few months, so you may as well invest in a good one. Keep the styling underneath light, comfortable and timeless and you'll be outfit repeating before you know it.
Shop the Look:
From the sharp shoulders to the mid-calf length, I love everything about this coat.
So chic.
An instant outfit elevator.
This cut is so classic.
4. Blazer + Slip Dress + Mules
Style Notes: For winter events, resist splurging on a brand new dress that might feel dated this time next year—instead, stick to a Taffy's fail-safe combo, a boxy blazer contrasted with a pretty slip dress.
Shop the Look:
This pale green shade will be a refreshing addition to your winter colour palette.
We always turn to Omnes for high-quality slip dresses.
Wear these all-year-round.
So sleek.
5. Cropped Jacket + Straight-Leg Jeans + Boots
Style Notes: A cropped jacket with wool in the composition is just the ticket to keeping you warm on milder winter days. Opt for high-waisted jeans and sleek boots to complete this timeless look.
Shop the Look:
The gold-toned buttons complement the cream so nicely.
This is a forever pair of jeans.
I'll be taking a break from black boots with this chic beige suede pair.
6. Turtleneck Jumper + Tailored Trousers + Loafers
Style Notes: I don't believe wearing a loose, chunky-knit jumper necessitates choosing a fitted trouser; lean into the cosy look like Brittany with relaxed silhouettes from top-to-toe.
Shop the Look:
Meet your new favourite jumper.
This colour looks so premium.
M&S has taken the traditional penny loafer and made it even more stylish.
The perfect size for daily use.
7. Wool Coat + Mini Dress + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: When in doubt, a maxi wool coat and mini dress combo will never fail to look chic. Opt for a knitted iteration and add tights and sleek boots to keep you warm.
Shop the Look:
This belongs in every wardrobe.
Wear with boots, trainers or kitten heels.
This burgundy shade looks so expensive.
My dream bag.
-
European Women Rely on This Elegant Coat Trend to Look Polished in Winter—18 of the Best for Every BudgetA modern classic.
-
6 Winter Outfits That Are Guaranteed to Make You Look RichFrom a designer-loving editor.
-
French Women Just Showed Me 5 Flawless Ways to Wear Jeans and Boots This WinterNow you know.
-
I've Just Assembled 4 Chic and Classy Outfits With H&M's Perfect £16 CardiganAffordable and versatile.
-
Sorry, Loafers—Fashion People Think These 6 Chic Winter Outfits Look Even Better With TrainersSorry, boots.
-
I've Worked It Out: Knee-High Boots Look Especially Chic Styled With These Skirt TrendsPerfect pairings.
-
The Elegant Autumn Colour That Celebs, French Women and Fashion Editors Wear to Look RichSerene and sophisticated.
-
If You Love the '90s and French Style, These 8 Outfits Will Speak to YouThe best of both worlds.
