Winter outfits don’t need to be complicated.
Most of the time, it’s one small styling choice that makes a look feel elevated — a belt, a great coat, a luxe texture, or the right base layer.
In the city, I always want my outfits to feel warm and practical, but still polished… not like I’m just layering to get through the day.
There are a few simple winter styling tricks I turn to that instantly upgrade the basics I already wear on repeat.
Here are five easy ways I elevate my city winter outfits every year.
Shop this winter capsule on my LTK.
Make your basics feel current
Winter outfits are often built on simple staples: jeans, boots, a warm jacket. The easiest way to make that classic combo feel fresh? Add one statement accessory.
Lately, I love a faux fur hat for that cool-girl winter touch — it instantly upgrades denim and makes the whole look feel intentional.
Think:
- Faux fur hat
- Oversized scarf (bonus for matching your coat)
- Leather gloves (especially with a little faux fur)
- A chic pair of sunglasses
- Statement bag (think oversized, suede or with tassles)
Small detail, major payoff.
Have a no fail winter combo
If I had to choose one winter outfit formula that never fails, it’s this.
A knit sweater dress paired with a structured wool coat always looks elevated — even when you didn’t have time to think.
Styling tip:
- Go monochrome (all cream, all black, all brown) for an expensive-looking finish
- Or add contrast (camel coat + black dress) for a little more edge
It’s cozy, flattering, and looks like you tried… with minimal effort.
Perfect for: workdays, dinners, “I don’t know what to wear” mornings
Faux Fur = Everyday Luxury
A faux fur coat is my favorite shortcut to feeling instantly dressed up.
Even if you’re wearing the most basic outfit underneath (knit + trousers, denim + a tee), the outerwear does all the work.
It adds texture, warmth, and that slightly “fancy” city winter energy — without being too much.
Styling tip: keep everything else simple. Let the coat be the statement.
Belt Your Knitwear for Shape + Structure
Winter layering can get bulky fast — especially with oversized sweaters and long cardigans.
One of the easiest ways to upgrade cozy pieces is adding a belt.
It instantly creates shape and makes the outfit feel styled instead of slouchy.
Try it with:
- Sweater dresses
- Chunky knits
- Long cardigans
- Oversized layered over knits
It’s such a small styling move, but it makes a huge difference.
5. Fleece-Lined Tights Are My Cold-Weather Secret Weapon
If you want to wear skirts or dresses in winter without freezing… fleece-lined tights are the answer.
They’re warmer than leggings, more comfortable than jeans (honestly), and make winter outfits so much more wearable.
I wear them constantly under:
- sweater dresses
- mini skirts
- layered winter looks with tall boots
This is the kind of “city winter hack” that changes everything
Final Thoughts: Winter Style Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Upgrading your winter outfits isn’t about buying more.
It’s about knowing the formulas:
- A polished base layer
- One intentional accessory
- Great outerwear
- Simple styling tricks that create shape
- Warm layers that keep you comfortable
When you have a few go-to combinations like these, getting dressed in winter becomes so much easier — and honestly, more fun.
Shop this winter capsule on my LTK.
What do you think?