Why is it that we're surprised by the lower drop in temperature every December? I mean, It's as predictable as Anna Wintour wearing sunglasses on the FROW, yet we exclaim at its coming all the same. If you're like me, what typically ensues is a last-minute scrabble to find the winter coats that have lain dormant in your wardrobe for the last nine months and a hurried reacquainting with the art of layering. Well, as always, we're here to give you a helping hand in the fashion department. And now that the temperature has dropped even lower (and a snow forecast is on its way, eek), our first port of call is always winter basics.
We all know that staples are an important part of a wardrobe, yet we find that during the colder months, having your foundations in place is more important than ever. It's all about simple pairings: a chunky knit and straight-leg jeans, a long-line puffer and lace-up combat boots. Minimal effort, maximum impact. To get you started, we've rounded up the seven winter staples that we personally turn to year after year and never fail to give our cold-weather capsules a boost. From Arket's staple puffer coat to Uniqlo's time-tested knitwear, scroll down to see and shop our edit.
7 Winter Wardrobe Staples
1. Chunky Knit
A sleek addition to any capsule wardrobe is this rich chocolate brown funnel-neck jumper.
A crew neck is such a classic style to see you through the seasons.
Reformation's knitwear is irresistible right now.
Mango's knitwear is of such a high quality at a sensible price point.
2. Sturdy Boots
The Row iconic boots are such a worthy investment, they'll be a piece that stay forever in your wardrobe and will be brought out year after year.
A lace-up boot is a classic style that can easily be worn with jeans to dresses.
You can always rely on Chelsea boots come winter. They're practical, stylish and weather-wicking.
Jimmy Choo's Noemi boot is very utilitarian style meets fashion - the soft leather with platform sole and combat style is adorned with a pearl strap.
3. Chic Coat
Scarf coats are such a big trend this winter and this H&M piece is so affordable and looks so luxe. This is available in beige and grey and I really can't choose my favourite.
In the depths of winter, sometimes it really does just call for a puffer coat.
This sleek Toteme coat will easily take you from day to night.
This comes in five different colourways.
4. Tights
M&S is my go-to for tights.
A pack of three for £10 is a steal.
Not only are Swedish Stockings a sustainable brand (crafting tights from 100% recycled nylon) the tights also have a comfortable anti-slip high-waist band.
I couldn't be without these thermal tights from Calzedonia.
5. Leather Skirt
Chocolate brown is so on trend this winter and gives a softer finish to black.
A black leather mini skirt, tights, a chunky knit and boots is one of my go-to looks in the winter.
I adore the A-line silhouette and exposed stitching.
Burgundy is a chic alternative to the usual blacks and browns we usually see when it comes to leather.
6. Cosy Cardigan
The cinched waist gives such a sleek, structured silhouette.
This Aligne cardi is as classic as they come.
This looks so much more luxe than the high-street.
Sézane's knitwear is some of my favourite on the high-street right now, this comes in 11 different colours.
7. Woollen Accessories
TBCo. is one of my favourite brands at the moment.
These gloves look so cosy.
I absolutely adore this olive hue.
The balaclava may have divided opinions, but one thing is for sure, it's guaranteed to keep you warm.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.