Fashion - Winter Wardrobe Essentials

At first glance, the day seems warm, the sky blue, and the sun looks set to shine. Then you step foot out the front door and the gust of fresh air reminds you that winter’s arrived and it’s time to start wrapping up. But where do you begin? Every season, fashion trends change. Keeping up can leave you feeling pressured or penniless. The answer is simple: build on essentials, choose classic garments with a modern twist and add a small amount of on-trend pieces to keep you looking superlatively stylish.

And never doubt how important comfort is; comfort is luxury.

Your undergarments are the first essential. Since they are closest to your skin, you need them to be warm. Long-sleeved, fine merino singlets are a great choice. If you dislike the extra bulk of layering, these will keep you so warm you only need to put a shirt over the top, finishing with your winter coat and a scarf. For those who feel the cold to the core, add merino underpants to your list – Icebreakers are divine.

Like them or loathe them, leggings are a season-less staple, transcending all age groups. They are easy to wear, can be dressed up or down for work or play, and they look good with boots, heels and flats. If leggings are not your style, try substituting them with thick opaque tights. Choose black, charcoal or navy tights to go with anything in a textured pattern to keep on trend. Always remember that neither leggings nor tights are replacements for trousers. Both should be worn with a layer over the top that finishes at the most flattering part of your leg; ideally wear leggings with tunics and tights with skirts or dresses.

While on your lower half, the next essential item you cannot go past is a good pair of black tailored trousers in a wool fabric. If you find wool irritating, chose a pair in thick cotton that will keep you warm. Straight and bootleg cuts will compliment most body shape, and if you buy your trousers as part of a suit, you will have the extra bonus of a jacket that can be worn with jeans at the weekend.

Jackie Kennedy Onassis was famous for her classic turtleneck knits. She’d team them with tailored coats and wide-leg pants: a stylish combination that will never date. For those with a short neck or a large bust, it’s best to wear a V-neck sweater instead.

A white shirt is classic all year round, but a long-sleeve version will give you the most versatility during winter. Wear it under a sweater or cardigan showing off the cuffs and collar or under a shift dress team with a long-length coat… the options are endless. A long-length wool coat and a good raincoat are also absolute musts in winter; invest in good-quality, classic-cut coats in a neutral colour to ensure they last a few seasons.

The most stylish people always complete their look with fabulous accessories, and winter is the perfect time to pull out all stops – scarves, hats, boots, gloves and belts. Experiment with them all, choosing interesting colours to compliment your skin tone and brighten up a grey winter’s day.