Dressing for winter can be difficult for any occasion, but getting dressed for the office in the winter is even more challenging. You need to look polished and put together, but you also want to be warm and comfortable. In this post, I’ve created a classic winter workwear capsule wardrobe to make getting dressed for the office a bit easier.
One surprising fact about style is that a big wardrobe doesn’t necessarily make getting dressed any quicker. Too many options creates decision fatigue and items get lost in the back of your closet never to be seen again. A smaller wardrobe, like this capsule wardrobe, makes getting dressed much more simple. In addition, if you base your shopping around capsule wardrobes, you begin to have an understanding about which pieces work well together, and you can optimize your closet with versatility in mind.
For this capsule, I’ve chosen classic workwear pieces that are chic and polished and can be worn several ways to create more outfits. I’ve created a list of pieces I recommend (plus my favorites to shop!), optional accessories, and sample outfit ideas you can copy.
Winter Workwear Capsule Wardrobe
Pieces For A Winter Workwear Capsule Wardrobe
For this capsule, I’ve curated a list of fourteen workwear pieces. These are the basics you’ll need for a well edited closet. For some pieces, you’ll probably need more than one so choose the colors that you prefer. I tend to stick with neutrals like black, navy, brown, and gray which I find to be easy to mix and match thereby allowing you to create more outfits with just a few pieces. I also recommend having a collection of accessories to style your workwear looks including belts in black and brown; scarves, hats, and gloves for the commute; and a few simple pieces of jewelry like a coin necklace and hoops. I’ve linked the accessories I’ve used to style my workwear capsule looks below.
1. Silk Blouse
A silk or satin blouse is a versatile yet elegant top that’s perfect for the office. You can tuck it in to trousers or wear it with a skirt and boots. Plus, a silk blouse also looks great tucked into straight leg jeans and worn with heels for date night. My favorite is this top from Quince.
2. Fitted Cardigan
I love a loose cozy cardigan as much as the next girl, but for work, I prefer a cardigan that has a slim fit and tucks in easily. It’s very Parisian chic and can be layered with a long sleeved tee or turtleneck for frigid winter days. My favorite fitted cardigans are this one and this one from Sézane. I recommend sizing down in both styles.
3. Button Down Shirt
A basic button down shirt is a must have for your workwear capsule. Tuck it into trousers or wear with a skirt. I recommend having a couple in different neutral colors. You could go for one with pinstripes if you want to add a little pattern to your capsule. Go for a more classic button down with a relaxed fit or, if your office is more casual, an oversized button down that you could also wear untucked.
4. Turtleneck
When the weather is cold, a turtleneck is a nice layering top to keep you warm. You can wear it under blazers, cardigans, sweaters, and even button downs. It also can be worn on it’s own if you live in a warmer climate. I recommend these turtlenecks from Everlane which are really great quality.
5. Crewneck Sweater
This basic sweater is a versatile addition to your winter workwear capsule wardrobe. You can style it with any style of pants or skirts. Plus, you can wear it over your turtlenecks or button downs when you need more than one layer. I recommend getting the best quality you can afford here because cheap sweaters tend to pill and lose their shape with a few wears. My favorite places to shop for sweaters are Everlane, Quince, and Sézane.
6. Cropped Trousers
I’m recommending two styles of trousers for this capsule wardrobe – one cropped and one full length style. Cropped trousers tend to be more versatile in my opinion as they pair nicely with all styles of shoes, but full length options look so lovely with a heeled ankle boot. If you’re petite like me, be prepared to have your cropped trousers tailored to the right length. I prefer mine to hit at my ankle bone (be sure to try them on with the shoes you plan to wear with them with, heeled or otherwise!)
7. Full Length Trousers
This style of pants look so chic when paired with a heeled boot. The ideal length in my opinion just skims the floor (I’m not into those so called ‘puddle pants’ – so impractical!) Choose colors that you like best, but I like sticking to neutrals for versatility sake.
8. Midi Skirt
A midi skirt gives you the option to mix it up from the usual pants. I would definitely have this in the rotation if I worked in an office. For winter, a knit or pleated skirt looks lovely with knee high boots and a fitted top.
9. A Work-Appropriate Dress
When it comes to winter dresses, choose one that has long sleeves and a midi or maxi length which work best for work (although a shorter dress is an option, too, depending on your office environment and climate.) A knit dress is my pick for a winter workwear capsule, and I’ve linked a few options below.
10. Blazer
Blazers are a staple in a workwear wardrobe. If you live in a colder climate, a wool blend blazer will give you the most warmth. Choose one with a relaxed fit that isn’t too oversized if you want to keep it timeless and classic. My favorites are from Sézane and Everlane.
11. Wool Coat
For an elegant outerwear option that goes well with officewear, choose a big oversized wool coat. I own and recommend this one from Mango, but it’s a bit light for really cold weather. I’ve heard great things about these wool coats from Aritzia that are 78% wool and 10% cashmere which should keep you nice and warm (but still chic!) in cold weather.
12. Loafers
Loafers always look polished and sophisticated when styled with with workwear. I know chunky styles have been trending the past few years, but I recommend going with a sleek style that is classic and timeless. Definitely wear them with socks or tights in the winter months to keep your feet warm.
13. Heeled Ankle Boots
The heeled ankle boot is by far my most worn shoe in the winter. I have a few styles in different colors. I recommend having a pair in black and a pair in a shade of brown. These are easy to style with trousers. Look for a pair that has a tall and slim ankle shaft that tucks under the hem of your pants without any ankle skin showing.
14. Knee High Boots
Knee high boots are a winter workwear necessity if you plan to wear skirts and dresses. Along with thick tights, these will keep your feet and legs covered in the cold winter air. Plus, they look so chic! I think a heeled style is best for dresses and skirts. I own this pair and highly recommend them.
Optional Accessories
Adding accessories can take your look from boring to interesting. Plus, you’ll definitely want some nice wool hats and scarves to keep you warm while commuting to and from the office. Sunglasses are a must, too as well as a big tote bag to carry your laptop and other things you might need.
Winter Workwear Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas
Silk Blouse + Midi Skirt + Knee High Boots + Wool Coat
Silk Blouse + Cropped Trousers + Loafers + Wool Coat
Fitted Cardigan + Cropped Trousers + Ankle Boots + Wool Coat
Button Down + Full Length Trousers + Ankle Boots + Wool Coat
Crewneck Sweater + Button Down Shirt + Cropped Trousers + Loafers
Crewneck Sweater + Midi Skirt + Knee High Boots + Wool Coat
Turtleneck + Blazer + Cropped Trousers + Ankle Boots + Wool Coat
Crewneck Sweater + Blazer + Full Length Trousers + Ankle Boots
Fitted Cardigan + Full Length Trousers + Ankle Boots + Wool Coat
Long Dress + Knee High Boots + Wool Coat
Read More:
Modern Business Casual Outfits For 2024
Winter Travel Capsule
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