Winter outfit ideas: 7 looks that are cozy and chic

Winter outfit ideas are all about balancing the practical with the stylish. Whilst it might be tempting to reach for the same chunky knit and legging combo on repeat, there are plenty of other styling tricks that will help you freshen up your winter look.

Freezing temperatures offer up a whole new styling conundrum. How do you look stylish and stay snug? Luckily there’s heaps of style inspo out there whether you want to tap into the fall 2022 fashion trends or invest in classic pieces to expand your winter capsule wardrobe. The easiest place to start is with the basics - think the best jeans, dresses and winter boots, wardrobe essentials that you can then build layers upon.

Unlike summer when you can throw on a dress and go, there are so many elements to winter dressing, making it the perfect opportunity to play around with your wardrobe and create endless looks. Fabric plays an important role too. From cozy cashmere to cuddly teddy bear textures, these materials will keep you warm and feeling polished. And let’s not forget winter accessories - blanket scarves, the best winter hats and glamorous gloves will help elevate your winter outfit ideas in an instant.

Winter outfit ideas as chosen by a fashion editor

From coats to sweaters and every layer that gets slipped on underneath, winter outfit ideas are rooted in practicality. While it might be cold outside, inside heated offices and homes can have us toasty in minutes, meaning layering is key to nailing what to wear in the winter. We’ve rounded up our favorite fail-safe winter outfit ideas to get you started.

1. Dress + longline knit

We’ll never tire of the timeless midi dress and just because the temperature’s dropped, it doesn’t mean we have to ditch it. Thanks to its longer length, the best midi dresses allow you to skip the tights entirely if you wish, especially when teamed with some long boots. To up the cozy vibes, layer a longline cardigan or oversized turtleneck sweater over your dress for an effortlessly elegant daytime look. Worried the sweater will swamp your figure? Finish with a belt to define the waist. 

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2. Sweater dress

A sweater dress is the perfect piece to keep you feeling glamorous whilst remaining cozy too. Maximum impact, minimal effort, the best jumper dresses have that throw on and go appeal that’s a sartorial saviour when you’re pushed for time. Opt for a mini length and offset the shorter hem by teaming with the best knee high boots for a retro-inspired look or take it to the max and team a midi or maxi sweater dress with the best loafers or ankle boots.

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3. Jeans + statement coat

Of course jeans are a year-long staple but they really come into their own during the colder months. Look for relaxed styles such as a straight-leg or boyfriend cut for a cooler finish that also allows room to slip on a pair of tights underneath for extra warmth. For an effortless look that still packs a punch, team with the best winter coats and look for wintery textures such as leather, faux fur and shearling to champion this season's coat trends. Complete the look with some stylish ankle boots and voila! You have your off-duty winter outfit ideas sorted.

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4. Pants + Knitwear

For an office-appropriate aesthetic that you can wear through the weekend, this is a no-brainer. Wide-leg trousers have a sense of understated elegance about them and are universally flattering too. For winning winter outfit ideas keep your look tonal and team your wide leg pants with a color coordinating knit for a seamless head-to-toe look. Lean into heavier fabrics such as corduroy and wool to add a wintery finish. A spot of dopamine dressing will boost your look and your mood.

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5. Skirt + Long Boots

Who doesn’t love a knit and skirt combo and this preppy look is just made for a winter outfit ideas. When it comes to how to wear a skirt and boots this winter, it’s all about balance, so the shorter the skirt, the longer the boots to ensure your legs get the coverage they need. Give feminine pleated skirts a grungier edge by teaming with stompier styles that tap into the boot trends 2022, while directional minis will look fantastic paired with directional over-the-knee boots. Winter dressing is all about mixing textures too - think a leather skirt and one of the best John Lewis coats, with a pair of sleek boots for a winning combination.

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6. Knitted co-ords

If it’s wardrobe mileage you’re after, a knitted co-ord has got you covered for those winter outfit ideas. Creating a plethora of style opportunities you can wear the coord pieces together for a chic tonal look or mix and match with other wardrobe staples - a smart shirt or the best leggings. This look is super easy to dress up too - just add a sparkly clutch and the best designer heels to render it dinner date ready or keep it relaxed with sporty sneakers for your Sunday getup.

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7. Jumpsuit

Guaranteed to keep you warm and stylish from head to toe is the trusty boilersuit. Even more so if you stick to thicker fabrics such as leather and denim. Not only is this look achingly cool, but it requires little effort as the all-in-one means little is needed in terms of added styling. A flattering jumpsuit works with a plethora of footwear too, from the best winter boots to some sparkly sandals. If you need an extra layer, slip a fine-knit turtleneck underneath. 

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