My Perfect Winter Workwear Capsule Wardrobe Contains Just 9 Key Pieces

Having made it through the initial stages of back-to-school season, suddenly winter is staring us in the eyes and our lightweight blazers simply won’t cut it for workwear attire any longer. 

With the sudden drop in temperature, I’ve been newly inspired to shake up my winter workwear wardrobe in favour of hard-working items that can mix-and-match with each other, so I never have to fret about not having anything to wear.

Having worked in the fashion industry for many years now, I’m at this point well versed in the foundations of a great workwear outfit. With the new season quickly approaching, I’ve narrowed my workwear collection down to the nine staple pieces that will freshen up my wardrobe for easy daily styling that’s both professional, and right on trend.

Read on to discover my edit of the perfect winter-ready capsule wardrobe below.

Style Notes: I’m convinced that every great workwear wardrobe starts with a button down. Whilst we remain in autumn you can use it under a blazer, but when the temperature starts to drop layer over fine-knit turtleneck, or it wear underneath a thicker knit.

Striped button-downs are the workwear staple I can’t be without.

I reach for a white button-down several times a week.

Navy blue is the chic winter shade I’m prioritising this year.

Soft silk is always a good idea.

Style Notes: A high quality knit is perfect for easy insulation over the winter months. Crew-neck cardigans are trending, but I’ll always fall back on a classic wool jumper. Keep your knitwear looking neat by clearing any loose threads or pilling with a pilling remover.

A navy jumper is ideal of layering over a crisp white button-down.

I can’t stop thinking about this perfect red cardi.

A beige jumper will seamlessly blend into your capsule wardrobe.

Style this chic cardi buttoned up all the way for a neat finish, or wear undone for a casual look.

Style Notes: For its chart-topping insulating qualities and chic finish, I’m only interested in shopping  wool trousers during the winter months. Able to keep you warmer than any denim or cotton style ever could, there’s really only one answer when it comes to winter trousers.

This ankle grazing style wears well with loafers or boots.

On those extra-cold days, pop on some thermals underneath your wide-leg trousers.

Perfectly oversized.

Black trousers a workwear hero no-one should be without.

Style Notes: When winter takes the helm, a top-quality coat is simple non-negotiable. Style a smart double breasted coat in a chic neutral tone for a goes-with-everything style solution.

Camel coats are the enduring winter trend I’ll have a soft spot for.

Sharp shoulders and a double-breasted closure make for the perfect workwear coat.

This slouchier style will see you through the winter months in comfort and warmth.

I’ll be snapping up this perfect grey coat.

Style Notes: Sleek leather loafers are the footwear trend that was practically designed with the office in mind. When the weather calls for it, style with thick white socks or black tights, but on warmer days go without for a more relaxed look.

G.H. Bass does loafers so well.

This smart style is at the top of my wish list.

Marks & Spencer is always reliable for high-quality leather items.

Workwear appropriate and bang on trend.

Style Notes: A simple dress in an elegant cut is the one-and-done workwear solution I’ve been looking for. Layer with a wool knit, a button-down, or simply style with a blazer for workwear-ready look you can call on time and time again.

Layer with tights, boots and a blazer when the chilly weather sets in.

A boat-neck cut is the simple, refined style I’m shopping this season.

Elegant and easy. What more could you want?

Layer with a little cardigan and smart coat this winter.

Style Notes: Winter isn’t the time to stow away your T-shirts. These wardrobe heroes will help you create a versatile workwear capsule wardrobe. Layer underneath thick jumpers, light cardigans, button-down shirts and smart blazers all season long.

I’ve tried so many white tees, and this is my favourite.

Striped t-shirt layer well with neutral blazers or navy cardigans.

A ribbed t-shirt will add that extra bit of insulation.

Don’t sleep on long-sleeved t-shirts this winter.

Style Notes: If you choose the right cut, a sleek blazer will easily layer underneath a structured coat or be roomy enough to chuck over a jumper. The workwear stalwart we’ve been calling upon for years, no capsule wardrobe is complete without one.

Style with wool trousers, a fine knit or the perfect white shirt.

I’ve had my eye on this brown blazer this season.

Double-breasted styles always look smart.

A good blazer can take you from the working week to the weekend with ease.

Style Notes: When winter really rolls around, there’s nothing I’d rather reach for than a reliable pair of leather boots. The only option when the weather isn’t on your side, these versatile shoes will see you through the coldest chill. This season, kitten heel boots are trending. Effortlessly chic, I’ll be styling them with everything this winter.

Style knee-high boots with a dress and tights this season.

In my opinion, a kitten heel is the perfect hight.

These ankle boots will style perfectly with wool trousers.

Style your winter whites with this chic ankle boot.

Up Next: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Will Last a Lifetime