ARE YOU FREEZING? HERE’S HOW TO STYLE IT OUT

Repeat after us: less is more. This might sound counterproductive, but when it comes to winter layering, your focus should be quality over quantity. There’s no need for several bulky jumpers if your winter base layer is doing its job properly. So, start with the fabric and opt for merino wool or cashmere pieces. Not only are they incredibly warm, but natural fibres are also breathable. That means fewer washes for your clothes, and fresher wears for you. Semi-sheer wool tops also slip seamlessly underneath your heavier pieces, so that dreaded bulky look can be neatly avoided when you're wearing layers in winter.

GET THE LOOK: 

ARKET merino wool knitted semi sheer long sleeve top in black, £45
OYSHO Seamless merino wool base layer t-shirt in black, £55.99
& Other Stories pure merino wool ribbed knitted top in dark brown, £67
ARKET merino wool knitted semi sheer turtle neck top in grey, £45

Nailing down the perfect coat is akin to winning the lottery, but it needn’t be so complicated. For example, we’ve long been fed the myth that a puffer coat is the cosiest choice, but (much like great base layers) the warmest outerwear is defined by its material. Look for coats with blends of 50% wool or more, thermal fleece jackets and longline silhouettes as they're ideal for cocooning against the cold. These tailored styles also feel more elevated than puffer jackets – so you can throw them over your usual outfits without hindering the look. And if it rains? There’s always an umbrella.

GET THE LOOK: 

& Other Stories belted wool coat in navy, £245
ARKET double wool collarless maxi coat in leopard print, £269
ARKET wool and alpaca oversized midi coat in black, £259
Aim'n Dark clay wool coat in dark clay, £336

Next comes the sartorial filling. This is where your heavier knits and jackets come into play – and if you’ve chosen your base layer wisely, you’ll have plenty of room to layer. Besides chunky jumpers and high-quality sweatshirts, necklines are worth some forethought. And we’re not just talking scarves. Turtlenecks and funnel necks provide a safeguard from the cold and provide some texture when peeking out from a structured coat. If you fancy injecting some colour into your looks, this is also a great way to do it.

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Topshop knitted premium cashmere roll neck jumper in oat, £120
ARKET wool and alpaca turtleneck jumper in light blue, £95
ASOS DESIGN bubble hem funnel neck trench jacket in olive, £75
Topshop wool look funnel neck bomber jacket with tab detail in charcoal, £70

Keeping our fingers warm and functional is a challenge when layering for cold weather. And as much as we love a cute mitten moment, they’re not always practical. So count your lucky stars that leather gloves exist. Not only are they remarkably chic – adding some 90s flair to your winter wardrobe – but opting for real leather and suede will keep your hands snug as a stylish bug. These picks are understated enough to allow ease of movement (important), and sleek enough to complement your usual roster (very important). And we’ll always have time for a little faux fur – should your outfit call for some savoir-faire.

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Barbour fur trimmed leather gloves in black, £55
Barneys Originals leather gloves in croc black, £35
OYSHO Double-faced leather gloves in brown, £35.99
Becksondergaard smooth leather gloves in burgundy, £84

When the going gets cold, footwear gets tricky. If you’re a trainer lover, you may find your go-to pair aren’t up to the task – leaving little room for thicker socks and flailing in the rain. Might we recommend a boot instead? Not only are they trending (particularly the knee-high variety), but they’re sleek, durable and stand their own in extreme weather. Heels provide some nifty space between you and soggy ground, and Chelsea boots are great for housing woolly socks and leggings.

GET THE LOOK: 

Topshop Noah point toe boot in black, £40
Allsaints Maeve chelsea boot in black, £299
Tony Bianco Mango curved kitten heel knee boots in black crinkle, £280
Jeffrey Campbell western knee boots in wine, £250