4 WAYS TO LEVEL UP YOUR WINTER WARDROBE

The theory of ‘unexpected red’ originated from the world of interiors. According to experts, it’s the secret to making any space look more elevated – pulling the rest of a room together no matter the context. Recently the same thinking has been applied to clothes, and the results are just as effective. You’ll also be happy to know you can recreate this trend with minimal effort (or shopping) required. It’s one of those winter looks for women that instantly feels pulled together without trying too hard. All it takes is a bold red accessory to breathe new life into your usual line-up. ‘I can’t stop thinking about this pony hair red tote bag,’ says Writer Flo. 'Not only is it real leather, but the soft texture feels super luxe and clashes perfectly with the bold shade.’ Socks, an over-the-shoulder knit or a beanie are prime real estate for unexpected red, too.

GET THE LOOK: 

Calzedonia Glitter socks in red, £8.99
Topshop Luna real leather tote bag in red pony, £85
Topshop knitted easy ribbed relaxed cardigan in red, £40
ASOS DESIGN wool knitted tie up hooded scarf in red, £24

Lace might sound like a bold styling choice, but it’s surprisingly versatile – even in winter. This season the lace camisole is enjoying the spotlight. Despite being kept relatively under wraps, it’s a delicate detail that instantly shifts the mood of your entire look. ‘I’m loving a pop of lace over a sharp tailored trouser,’ says Junior Editor Emma. ‘It’s the contrast of delicately feminine with classically masculine that really brings an outfit into fresh territory.’ Opting for complementary shades – like butter yellow and grey or cream and burgundy – is another way to push this nifty styling hack further.

GET THE LOOK: 

ASOS DESIGN satin lace trim asym hem cami top in plum, £34
AWARE drapey tailored dad trouser in cream, £45
ASOS DESIGN collarless boucle longline formal coat in bitter chocolate, £90
Stradivarius Mid-heel boots with stretch legs in burgundy, £35.99

Another layering tool – and one at everyone’s disposal – is the simple white T shirt. These are a mainstay in almost every wardrobe and have proved (once again) that they’re a bottomless pool of opportunity. Autumn/winter 2025 is all about the sneaky tee – peeking out from underneath a heavy knit or sweatshirt to break up darker looks. ‘I love a white T-shirt to cut through navy and black pieces,’ says Junior Editor Lizzie. ‘They’re also a great way to make tailoring feel a touch more casual.’ We love how a structured wool coat and loafer feel revitalised by this simple sliver of fabric.

GET THE LOOK: 

Weekday Essence standard t-shirt in white, £10
Pull&Bear Soft knit sweater in navy, £32.99
Mango pleat front tailored trouser in black, £59.99
Topshop Carey real leather loafers with ruched detail in black, £48

This wardrobe hack is all about colour theory. All you need are three different shades and layers to add visual variety to an ensemble. Both categories follow the same rule: one light, one medium, and one heavy. Think a T-shirt, followed by a knit, and finished with a thick coat. The same layering trick works with dresses in the winter – just add a long-sleeve top underneath and knee-high boots for balance. On the colour side of the things, we’re talking white, then butter yellow, and finally deep moss green. You can play with these variations to your heart’s desire – so it’s great for flexing your personal style preferences. ‘I’m loving plum reds paired with pastel pinks for this time of year,’ says Junior Writer Ayis. ‘It’s seasonal and bright, which is great for bringing some colour to these colder months.’

GET THE LOOK: 

Miss Selfridge Petite formal wrap coat in plum, £60
Hollister short sleeve baby tee in white, £12.95
ASOS DESIGN brushed knitted cardigan in pink, £32
Stradivarius Casual striped smart trousers with crossover waist in brown, £29.99