If, like me, you’ve been reading Who What Wear religiously for the past decade, then you know that nothing is boring about great basics. Just a bit shy of “uniform dressing,” without committing completely to a capsule wardrobe, a closet full of just a few winter basics is all that’s needed to get through the season in style.
That’s not to say you need to wear them all at once—in fact, we suggest mixing at matching these key winter basics with whatever you already have on hand. That’s the point, right? Great basics go with everything and can be worn regularly without compromising your personal style.
This season, we recommend shopping for (and perhaps investing in) these five simple wardrobe staples: a camel-colored coat, a classic black blazer, a chunky white knit sweater, straight-leg jeans, and Chelsea boots. That’s it! And if you already have a few of these items at your disposal, great—do some quick “girl math” and use that savings to invest in a top-quality piece that you’ll be happy about wearing for years to come. Ready? Let’s shop.
1. White Chunky Cable-Knit Sweater
BOTTEGA VENETA
Oversized Cable-Knit Wool Sweater
Cozy, oversized sweaters comprise approximately 50% of my winter wardrobe.
Nobodys Child
Cream Crew Neck Cable Knit Wool Jumper
This beautiful sweater is made with RWS wool and organic cotton.
VARLEY
Camello Cable-Knit Sweater
This cable-knit gets bonus points for blouson-inspired sleeves and a zip thrpugh collar.
2. Camel Wool Coat
Soaked In Luxury
Rubie Notch Lapel Belted Coat, Burro
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a great-looking camel coat.
3. Black Blazer
ZARA
Oversize Double-Breasted Blazer
Think a blazer feels too corporate? Make this feel more casual by rolling up the sleeves.
4. Straight-Leg Jeans
House of Dagmar
Straight Leg Denim
You truly cannot go wrong with an excellent pair of jeans from House of Dagmar. We are especially fond of the straight leg in this true blue wash.
Khaite
Abigail High-Rise Straight Jeans
Try tucking thinner sweaters into the front of high-waist jeans for a simple styling trick.