How to Create a Winter Capsule Wardrobe

The season of holiday parties, cozy nights in, and weekend ski trips is officially amongst us. I’m admittedly more of a warm weather girl, but there is something undeniably special about this time of year. Bundling up for a brisk morning walk or swapping your sneakers for snow boots offers a fresh change from summer and fall clothing. The cozy sweaters, thick layers, and faux fur pieces all come back out to keep us warm (and stylish) throughout this season.

I always look forward to testing out new trends, but there are a handful of wardrobe staples I always reach for during the winter months. Whether your cool weather closet picks need a refresh or you’re simply in the mood to shop (I feel you!) I’m sharing the ultimate winter capsule wardrobe below.

All of these picks are easy to mix and match with each other — and they’d work for a variety of outings and occasions. Whether you’re heading to a festive event or you’re looking for a winter date night outfit, I’ve got you covered!

Winter Capsule Wardrobe

Looking for a quick list of what belongs in a winter capsule wardrobe? Here’s where to start…

– Tops
Cozy knits, turtleneck sweaters, and long sleeved tops are all fair game. Tip: Try to incorporate a mix of neutral and patterned tops so you have a good variety. Reaching for finds that have different fabrics will also leave you with a more well-rounded winter wardrobe.

– Bottoms
It can be tempting to wear the same basic pair of jeans every day throughout the winter. While I’ve got nothing against denim, don’t forget that leather pants, leggings, and even skirts can be good options (just add tights!)

– Shoes
Ankle booties, knee high boots, and UGGs are my personal go-to’s throughout this season. With that being said, there’s a time and a place to bust out some closed-toe heels — and depending on where you live, you might be able to get away with ballet flats or loafers in the winter.

– Coats & Jackets
Facing brisk and potentially snowy temps means it’s time to break out your big winter coats. Keep things chic yet practical with pieces like a puffer jacket, wool coat, or even a sherpa style find. If there’s one area worth investing in, I would argue that these outer layers are it.

– Accessories
In order to really achieve a “styled” look, accessories are a must. Freshen up your winter outfits by incorporating a cute handbag or some shiny gold earrings. One trend that’s particularly in this season? Metallics!

More Pieces to Shop

Want to browse more of my favorite winter outfit favorites? I’m sharing a handful of finds in each category below. From days spent at home to going out looks, here are some items I think are worthy of adding to your winter lineup.

Cozy Tops

Sweaters are an obvious choice for winter wear. They’re ideal to throw on for both day and night occasions and they can be styled in a way that’s both casual and more dressed up. Adding some jewelry and opting for heeled ankle boots are two simple ways to add a more “put together” feel to a basic sweater look.

Aside from knits, I do love wearing off-the-shoulder tops during this season. They’re ideal for date nights and for holiday events because they have a more feminine and “special” look. When opting for this type of top, adding a warm coat to get you to and from your destination is crucial.

Winter Bottoms

I touched on this above, but it’s worth mentioning again: Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can only wear denim. Sure, jeans are a fool-proof option because they offer good coverage, they keep you warm, and they pair well with just about everything. With that being said, don’t be afraid to test out a winter skirt outfit (tights are key) or a more edgy leather pant look.

Depending on the climate you live in, you might have some winter days that are still relatively warm, creating an ideal opportunity to wear something other than pants. Maxi or midi skirts would also be a good option — and both pair well sweaters and boots!

Winter Shoes

Where are all my boot-loving gals at? While it can seem like a snooze to reach for boots by the time spring hits, there really are so many styles and fits out there that you shouldn’t feel bored of this look.

Ankle boots, tall boots, over-the-knee boots…the list goes on. I’d encourage you to source a variety of silhouettes that you can reach for throughout the winter months. For example, rather than shopping for multiple ankle booties, maybe you choose one pair and then opt for a tall option to mix things up.

Ballet flats, sneakers, heels, and loafers might also be good winter shoe options for you. Save these picks for warmer days or for occasions when you won’t be outside much (ex: when you’re heading to a dinner and you’ll be inside most of the night.)

Coats and Jackets

While fall layers might lean on the more lightweight side, come wintertime, it’s typically time to break out the big guns. All of the finds below would work well with chunky layers underneath — an absolute non-negotiable when sourcing a winter coat.

I have to call out this specific sherpa coat, which so many of you are buying (and raving about) right now. I’m also eyeing this wool-blend coat. It comes with a removable scarf but I love the idea of wearing the two pieces together — it doesn’t get any easier!

Winter Loungewear

The temps outside might be frightful, but spending more time cozied up at home (preferably near the fire) is a bonus that winter brings. Look and feel put together without sacrificing comfort with these loungewear picks.

Varley has been a longstanding favorite of mine for all things cozy and athleisure, and while I could pick many sets from the brand, I’m sharing just my top selects below. Most of these pieces could also be worn out and about (to grab coffee, head to school pickup, or to run errands.) And of course this season wouldn’t be complete without a trusted pair of UGG boots.

Winter Date Night Outfits

If there’s one outing that can be particularly hard to dress for during the winter, it’s a date night. You don’t want to freeze but you also don’t want to look too buttoned-up. This is where layering is key. Any of the tops and bottoms below could be styled with items that add extra warmth — but they also will look so stylish once you get to your date night destination (and can shed a layer or two.)

Holiday Looks

Holiday parties, family gatherings, and festive dinners all call for dressing up a bit — but what do you wear to these various events? I’d make a case for something that offers a bit of sparkle, like a sequin skirt or a shiny satin dress. Make any of these pieces more weather-appropriate by styling them with tall boots, tights, and a wool coat. Oh, and don’t forget the power of good accessories!

Winter Accessories

Speaking of accessories, there are lots of trends happening in this category. Metallics made a big splash earlier in the fall, and they’ve proven to be just as relevant this winter. If you only choose one piece to add to your winter wardrobe, this purse should be it. It’s under $25 and I can personally attest that it looks much more expensive. It’s truly one of my favorite Amazon purchases to date and I love that I can wear it with any outfit.

Other favorites you’re all loving: This classic leather tote bag (which I own in multiple colors) and these dainty gold earrings.

What item do you reach for most in your winter capsule wardrobe? Let me know in the comment section below!