For Your Winter Wardrobe

Sometimes we look into our wardrobes and find it hard to find something to wear.

Even though we have plenty of options. The key is to make decisions and choose garments that will make your winter wardrobe work better, making it easier to get dressed and saving money in the process.

When purchasing clothing at any time of the year, first and foremost it helps to identify what is going to suit your lifestyle. There is no point buying gorgeous going-out dresses, whether full price or on sale, if you never actually go out. It’s best to be realistic about what you do in your life. Sometimes it can take time to adjust, especially if there has been a recent change in your life. Perhaps you have recently retired, or you’re still in work mode, or maybe you’re a stay-at-home mum. Where do you live? In the city or live in the country? Life changes and your wardrobe needs just won’t be the same. It’s about being honest with yourself and having a real vision of where you will wear these garments. I sometimes have trouble with this myself, especially when considering purchasing going-out clothes as now the reality is I don’t do that much any more.

Foundation Garments

The first important step for your winter wardrobe starts with foundation garments that you can wear and wear, with almost everything. Basics first, then building as time goes on. If you’re aiming for a more simplistic wardrobe, I suggest choosing about 3 colours. If you choose to add a print, ideally, you would want one of the colours to match your base colour so you can easily add a coat or jacket. If it is a dress you are eyeing up you could go outside of your colour palette, though take into account what shoes you plan to wear.

Base Colours

Landing on a base colour that works well for you is a great starting point for a well-functioning wardrobe. Whether black, navy, grey, green, or brown, a great neutral base will allow you to add fashion colours and the final highlight colour. To help explain this, think of the classic combo of Navy, Red and White. Personally, black is my base colour, taupe is my fashion colour and white is my highlight colour. Keeping it simple with colours you love and work for you, rather than having lots of random colours, makes a wardrobe work smarter. Once you have decided on your colours for the season, then it’s time to get the basics into the wardrobe.

Essential Items

I think every winter wardrobe requires a good fine Merino top and these you can wear again and again. There is a great variety of these in our stores, with different necklines, from scoop through to polo and neutral colours right through to bright making it easy to add warmth and incorporate your fashion colour.

Trousers and Jeans

Any wardrobe requires a perfect pair of tailored trousers, and if that doesn’t suit your lifestyle, then a great pair of jeans. Try tucking your tops into the trousers or jeans and adding a nice belt for a polished look. It’s the small details like tucking in, adding a belt, and turning up your cuffs and collar that add style.

Blazers and Jackets

A great classic jacket with a collar can elevate any winter look. This year I am loving the blazer look, worn with skirts, pants and even denim jeans. When purchasing a jacket or coat, it’s best to go for a classic style and choose a colour that goes well with most of your wardrobe to ensure longevity. The beauty of coats and jackets is all about how you wear them. For example, you can wear a trench coat with tailored trousers or sweatpants, a tee and sneakers.

Knits and Jerseys

As we get older, it’s great to have fun with colours or prints, but for more expensive garments like knitwear, keeping it simple is best. A great jersey is certainly a must for any winter wardrobe and keeping the outfit simple when styling your knitwear is always a safe bet. A collared shirt or a basic white T-shirt always looks great under a cardigan.

Dresses and Skirts

While dresses and skirts are certainly in fashion this season, it may be that you don’t require both. Long skirts are making a comeback, whether it’s a straight denim style or a trendy leather look, and both pair well with a blouse, shirt, or knitwear. Belts are in fashion for defining the waist, and long boots or sneakers can be worn to match your lifestyle. Dresses are convenient and can be layered with a merino singlet and blazer for warmth.

Shoes and Accessories

The goal is to have a wardrobe with mix-and-match items that work together seamlessly. Changing your footwear or accessories can transform your look, so don’t overlook them. Updating your accessories is an important part of refreshing your wardrobe and can be a cost-effective way to make a change. Scarves bring colors together and add layers of interest. Handbags add personality and style. Belts are making a comeback and should be part of every new wardrobe.