12 Sophisticated Yet Simple Staples That Make Up My Winter 2024 Capsule Wardrobe

Seeing as it's mid-way through October, I thought it was time to talk about what people will really be wearing this winter—and not just in Instagram pictures. I'm talking cold-weather essentials that are functional but can still keep you looking chic when it feels nearly impossible. Whether your winter means sub-zero or a mild ten degrees, the pieces below are versatile enough that they still apply to anyone.

From bags and boots to jumpers and trousers, today I've got you covered—both physically and metaphorically. In addition to showing you how fashion people are styling each item, I've also thrown in a couple of my favourites just in case you're in a “treat yourself” kind of mood. Ready to get stock up on winter must-haves? Simply keep scrolling to see and shop my edit.

1. Suede Tote

Style Notes: Where else are you going to put your hat, scarf, and gloves once you arrive at your destination than a roomy tote? Suede is the fabric du jour, making it an obvious choice for winter.

Shop suede bags:

Arket

Suede Bag

£169

TOTEME

Suede Tote

£870

2. Maxi Skirt

Style Notes: Maxi skirts have been looking so chic this season that I find myself coming across a new maxi-skirt outfit I love every day.

Shop maxi skirts:

Mango

Long Pencil Skirt

£30

WARDROBE.NYC

Leather Maxi Skirt

£1700

3. Lug-Sole Boots

Style Notes: Even if you don't have slush to trek through, chunky log-sole boots are an essential at this time of year.

Shop boots:

& Other Stories

Chunky Chelsea Leather Boots

£165

Sam Edelman

Laguna Suede Chunky Chelsea Boots

£180

4. Barn Jacket

Style Notes: If you've spent any time on the internet lately, you'll have seen that country-style barn jackets are taking centre stage. They're the ideal cover-up for milder winter days.

Shop jackets:

& Other Stories

Loose Duffle Jacket

£165

Glassworks London

Dark Brown and Black Corduroy Collar Jacket

£288

5. Knitted Dress

Style Notes: Every winter, I come back to this staple when I'm in a style fix. This one piece will do all the hard work for you.

Shop dresses:

LEMAIRE

Ribbed Wool Turtleneck Mini Dress

£965

H&M

Knitted Bodycon Dress

£38

6. Leather Gloves

Style Notes: Gloves aren't just functional, they're fashionable too—especially if you opt for an elegant leather pair.

Shop gloves:

AGNELLE

Ines Leather Gloves

£130

John Lewis

Fleece Lined Women's Leather Gloves

£25

7. Fitted Turtleneck

Style Notes: There's no sleeker foundation than a simple, high-necked knit. Wear it on its own under a coat or layer more knitwear on top.

Shop turtlenecks:

COS

Merino Wool Turtleneck Top

£55

& Other Stories

Merino Turtleneck Jumper

£57

8. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: There's something about this specific boot style that really has the fashion set in a chokehold this season. It helps that knee-highs look good with everything.

Shop boots:

& Other Stories

Pointed-Toe Knee-High Boots

£295

Arket

Knee-High Leather Boots

£329

9. Oversized Knit

Style Notes: This one speaks for itself, but I'll remind you that when choosing your jumpers, don't be afraid to size up to achieve that relaxed look.

Shop knitwear:

Arket

Roll-Neck Jumper

£97

Reformation

Jadey Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Sweater

£298

10. Sheer Tights

Style Notes: I love wearing sheer tights with everything from dresses and miniskirts to trousers and maxi skirts.

Shop tights:

FALKE

Matt Deluxe 30 Den Women Tights

£28

M&S Collection

3pk 40 Denier Body Sensor™ Tights

£8

11. Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: While I will never turn my back on my beloved jeans, I have to admit that tailored trousers—when styled properly—do elevate an outfit so much more.

Shop trousers:

THE FRANKIE SHOP

Ripley Pleated Grain De Poudre Wide-Leg Pants

£203

COS

Relaxed Twill Wide-Leg Trousers

£115

12. Loafers With Socks

Style Notes: It's a combination that works with dresses, pants, and skirts, plus it gives off Hailey Bieber vibes. What more can you ask for?

Shop loafers and socks:

CHURCH'S

Pembrey W Leather Loafers

£850

Arket

Cashmere-Wool Blend Socks

£27

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear US and has since been updated.