Winter Outfits: Essentials + Outfit Inspiration

Winter is coming! It snowed in Lake Tahoe over Thanksgiving weekend and it seems like it hasn’t stopped snowing since. Doesn’t it seem like fall came and went so quickly? With all the cold, wet weather, I’ve had to shift to winter outfits already. So I’m sharing a few of my winter outfit essentials, with pictures for some winter outfit inspiration! I love winter outfits because it means bundling up and being cozy.

Of course some pieces will vary depending on your climate. Since I’m now living in an area that gets snow, this guide is geared towards cold weather climates. I’ve had to buy a lot of warm items for this cold weather. If you’re in a warmer climate, check out my Fall Style Staples post as it might be more relatable for you! Make sure you’re following me on Instagram to follow my latest fashion and travels and in the LiketoKnowit app for shoppable links to all my outfits!

Outfit Details: L.L. Bean Cashmere Sweater | WHBM Collared Shirt | Wit and Wisdom Pants | Hunter Boots | Hunter Boot Socks

Sweaters

Winter outfits are all about layering. It’s so chic but it provides you with some extra layers for warmth. Grab a cable knit sweater or a cashmere sweater. Everyone should have at least one cashmere sweater in their wardrobe, because while a little more expensive, cashmere is warmer and softer than regular wool. Turtleneck sweaters are also a great option for colder weather because they provide more coverage, making them warmer. I love turtleneck sweaters because they’re easy to style, you really don’t need to add any accessories, so they’re effortlessly chic. Plus they look gorgeous paired with a coat.

Style tip: size up your sweaters or look for a relaxed fit that you can comfortably layer over shirts or dresses.

Base layers

Following the idea of layering under sweaters, I love the look of tights under skirts and dresses. It looks so sophisticated but it also provides some warmth. Another option to get extra warmth when wearing pants is to wear thermals under your outfits. They are made to keep you warm, so wear them! Plus they are typically more fitted so they aren’t baggy under your clothes. If you don’t need thermals wear you live but want some extra warmth, you can use a long sleeve or a turtleneck instead.

Outfit Details: Love Your Melon Beanie | Express Sweater | Express Jeans | L.L. Bean Socks | L.L. Bean Boots (similar affordable option here)

Boots

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I love boots, especially booties, in the fall. They provide extra coverage and warmth as the weather cools down. As winter weather brings rain and snow, I tend to grab for booties less however. I love the extra coverage and warmth that taller boots provide, so I tend to choose knee high or over the knee boots the majority of the time in the winter. I love the look of knee-high boots or over-the-knee boots with winter outfits. They look gorgeous with jeans, white pants, and especially skirts or dresses. These knee-high boots are probably my favorite, they come in a neutral cream color and black, both look great with just about everything! But because they’re suede, I try to only wear them on days when it’s not raining or snowing so I don’t ruin them. Leather boots work best in the winter. Despite my preference for taller boots in the winter, I still wear insulated boots, like my L.L. Bean boots (less expensive boots here) or these Tofino boots, because they’re made for rainy and snowy weather. I’m also obsessed with the color of these Eddie Bauer boots!

Style tip: Avoid suede boots in wet weather. Opt for leather or something waterproof!

Outfit Details: Kyi Kyi Beanie | Thread & Supply Coat | Vici Turtleneck | Express Jeans | OTK Boots (old – similar here, here, and here)

Coat

A wool coat is a classic essential for winter outfits. Everyone should have a warm wool coat in their closet because they are versatile and warm. A wool coat can take you from work, to running errands, and are fashionable enough to wear to nice events or dinners. They can be dressed up or down, I love pairing a wool coat with jeans, a sweater, and sneakers or boots for a more casual look. I also think a wool coat paired with a dress and nice knee-high boots or flats is stunning for a more dressed up and sophisticated winter outfit! Either way, wool coats add a chic element to winter outfits.

Outfit Details: Kyi Kyi Beanie | Thread & Supply Coat | Express Sweater (similar here) | TopShop Jeans | OTK Boots (old – similar here, here, and here)

White

I love how chic white looks in the winter, especially paired with knee high boots. White pants are a year long essential for me (see this post about how to wear white after Labor Day), but they look especially good in the winter time. I love pairing either going all white or pairing white with a neutral color for an elegant look. Or I love adding a pop of color or a bold pattern to add some fun. I’m loving red this winter, so I’ve been pairing just about everything with this bright red beanie. You can also add some color and personality to your winter outfits through shoes, accessories (purse, necklace, earrings, etc.), beanies, scarves, or mittens.

Style tip: Don’t overdo your accessories by adding too many pieces, simple is key! 

Skinny Jeans

I used to avoid skinny jeans like the plague; I never thought they looked good on me. But skinny jeans are perfect for winter outfits because they don’t bunch up under your taller boots. I always folded over my jeans and maneuvered my legs into boots so my pant legs would stay in place. It wasn’t very comfortable. If you find skinny jeans uncomfortable or too tight on your legs, try some legging style jeans for a more flexible fit. These Frame jeans, Vici jeans, and Express jeans are my favorites!

Outfit Details: Love Your Melon Beanie | L.L. Bean Cashmere Sweater | Old Navy Scarf | Express Jeans | Hunter Boots

Cozy Accessories

I am all about being warm and cozy in the winter. If it’s snowing outside and I have to leave the house, I’m definitely bundled up in all the cozy accessories. Now that I’m living in an area that gets really cold and snows, I’ve had to buy a lot more warm accessories. I’ve had to stock up on my winter socks, mittens, beanies, and scarves. I also love the ear warmer headbands, they’re so cute and perfect if you’re being active or just want your hair up. Accessories are also the perfect way to add some color or personality to your winter outfits!

What are some of your favorite winter outfit essentials? Let me know in the comments below!