9 Winter Wardrobe Must Haves

On trend looks and classic wardrobe staples help build a wardrobe that is current and timeless. Let’s amp up your winter outfit with 9 winter wardrobe must haves, cute add-ons, and style tips.

Below I’ve listed a few must-have items to add to your winter wardrobe. You can sew them up — of course I have ideas — or you can purchase one or two for an instant wardrobe upgrade. I like a mix of both — some hand crafted, some purchased.

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Trendy Winter Wardrobe Essentials

I love adding one or two trendy pieces each season, it keeps your wardrobe fresh. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on the trends — they might only be around for a season or two. Perfect for date night or hanging out with your besties, a cute trend makes you feel like a fashion forward diva — in a good way!

1. Leather Midi Skirts

Leather midi skirts are so on trend right now. Bonus – they are super easy to make. You can purchase real leather if that fits in your budget, but for trendy pieces I prefer faux leather. Faux leather is easy to sew and looks great.

Make It

Minerva’s Core Range Faux Leather comes in great colors and is reasonably priced. It would work perfectly with this simple Burda wrapped skirt pattern. Pair it with a T-shirt or holiday season inspired top and you are runway ready.

Buy It

I like this Anne Klein black faux leather midi skirt. It’s reasonably priced and would be a flattering silhouette for most figures. It’s always fun to show a little leg – if you got it, flaunt it.

2. Maxi Dresses

I’m not convinced maxi dresses are a passing trend. They are wonderful in the summer, cozy in the winter, and super feminine. They are trending this season and if you are short or tall, making one to fit your height may be the best way to go.

Make It

Right now there is a maxi dress on my cutting table, it will eventually be a sew-along. I like an overall print for this dress since it has simple lines and lots of fabric. I am using Vogue 9253 which is an older pattern and some stash fabric. This retro Viscose Challis print would make a showstopper dress too. You can find all the information in my Sewing Makes And Plans V toool. 7.

Buy It

This feminine floral maxi dress will cheer up any winter wardrobe. It will be one of your goto essentials. The side cutouts make it fresh and modern and the floral makes it floaty and ethereal.

3. High Waisted Jeans

I wear high waisted jeans A LOT. I don’t typically tuck shirts into them, I just love the way they feel.

Make It

I’m not going to make these, they are way too much work. But, if you love making jeans, then go for it. This updated Style Arc Beth Pants pattern would make a lovely pair of stretch, high waisted jeans. For a winter wardrobe look, I like this black stretch denim for an on-trend pant.

Buy It

Recently I purchased these Elizabeth Super Skinny Jeans from Stitch Fix. They are my number one go-to jean. So comfy, they go with flats, boots, and sneakers. Love Them! If you have ever wanted to try Stitch Fix, click here and get $25 off your first order.

4. Long Knit Cardigan

Long knit cardigans are just the ticket for beating back a little chill. I have already made two long ones this season. Make it in a neutral color or a vibrant print – either way, this sweater is one of the most versatile pieces you can add this year.

Make It

Simplicity 8377 offers lots of great cardigan options. The first version I made was the long cardigan with long sleeves out with yummy purple and black houndstooth check from Minerva. You can read the review on my Minerva Page. The second version is made with Ponte Roma Double Stretch Knit Fabric.

Buy It

This long knit cardigan from Nordstroms is gorgeous, although more expensive than making one yourself. Adding a neutral sweater to your shopping list will help round out many of your outfit options. You will wear it multiple times over the spring, fall, and winter season.

Classic Winter Outfits

Classic winter wardrobe essentials are the backbone of your style. A little black dress (or two), great fitting pants, and a structured blazer always have a place in your closet. They wait there quietly until you need something serious and classic. A few more wardrobe classics are highlighted below.

5. Classic White Shirt

Every season starts with a new, classic white shirt. Let’s face it, they don’t stay white for very long so you need a new one periodically. There is nothing chic about a dingy white shirt!

Make It

When you perfect a classic shirt pattern, like Simplicity 8753, you can remake one as often as needed. Also, you can update and alter or hack the classic pattern with new and interesting twists. Different sleeves, collars, and length will change up a tried and true pattern keeping it fresh and current. Something like this barely there striped white cotton shirting will look fabulous.

Buy It

Crisp and clean, a tailored white shirt – this one is non iron – is the one closet purchase you need to seriously consider. It goes with everything!

6. Leather Bomber Jacket

Winter outerwear is required in most regions. A chic and effortless addition to any cool weather wardrobe is a leather jacket. When worn with almost anything, a bomber jacket can take an okay outfit and amp it up to something sensational. It is a cold season wardrobe staple.

Make It

I have made several leather jackets, they take time and effort. But in the end, they are worth the work. Take a peek at my Leather Jacket Project YouTube video before you head to the store.

Buy It

An easier way to attain an amazing leather bomber jacket is to buy one. Buy a good one and it will last you for years. This Dalby Leather Biker Jacket is definitely an investment piece, but you will find yourself reaching for it every time you head out the door.

7. Wool Coat

Make It

Last year I made the Yates Coat pattern by Grainline Studio. Love, love this coat. I used this yummy boiled wool which worked up into a gorgeous coat. Is making a winter coat a lot of work? Yes it is. However, the finished product, when you take your time and tailor every inch, it will last for years.

Buy It

Beginner sewists should consider buying a coat or making one with some expert guidance. The world of winter coats is wide and difficult to navigate. Nordstroms offers a great selection of beautiful classic winter coats for every body shape and budget.

Cold Weather Accessory

An extensive shoe collection is a major piece in every wardrobe, no matter what season. Shoes are trending towards cute, adorable flats and cozy sneakers. They both work with almost any outfit and make your feet happy.

8. Fashion Flats

Buy It

I just bought these leopard print TOMS from Stitch Fix in November. I seem to reach for them everyday. So comfy, so cute, so right.

To get started with Stitch Fix and receive $25 off your first order, click through my account here.

9. Sneakers With Style

Buy It

The ubiquitous sneaker. They are everywhere and we are wearing them with everything. Perfect with blue jeans and workout wear, they are a game changer when walking to work or on a vacation walking tour. Since they are a wardrobe staple, you can wear them without sacrificing your stylish look.

Amp Up Your Winter Wardrobe Style

Whether you are sewing or buying your 9 winter wardrobe must-haves, make a plan to get some of these beauties into your closet. The winter season is upon us — time to get shopping.

Happy Sewing!