Introduction
As the colder months arrive, it’s important to update your wardrobe with versatile, functional pieces that will keep you looking polished and protected from the elements while in the office.
Whether braving a blizzard or transitional temperatures, having a solid core of winter workwear essentials ensures you feel comfortable and well-dressed even as the mercury drops.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll be reviewing and recommending top brands and specific items that belong in every professional’s cold weather wardrobe. Style, warmth, weatherproofing, and affordability were key factors considered for each category.
Top Winter Office Wardrobe Essentials
Coats and Blazers
A quality winter coat is an absolute necessity for staying cozy and presentable on frigid commutes. For classic elegance and supreme warmth, I recommend the Banana Republic peacoat or toggle coat, crafted from durable wool and designed to layer seamlessly under a blazer. Those seeking trendier silhouettes should check out Land’s End’s puffer coats, available in an array of on-trend colors.
A long wool coat from Ralph Lauren provides reliable protection from rain, snow or sleet. Complete your outerwear collection with a structured blazer from Brooks Brothers, J. Crew or Banana Republic. Their wool and cashmere styles deliver professional polish and flexibility.
A puffer coat is an essential for winter weather, offering lightweight warmth and water resistance to combat rain, snow and wind. Look for technical fabrics and goose down or duck down fill for high performance protection.
Sweaters and Cardigans
When the air is bitterly cold but your office thermostat runs hot, a wardrobe of versatile knitwear is indispensable. For buttery soft merino styles to easily pair with skirts or trousers, I recommend looking to LL Bean. They offer elegant crewneck, v-neck and cardigan options in a palette of rich colors and neutrals.
For those seeking vibrant hues and fun details like sequins or intarsia, Calvin Klein delivers statement pieces within a workwear-friendly aesthetic. Their cashmere blends are as luxurious as they are affordable. Customers praise Michael Kors’ fine gauge sweaters and cropped cardis for their flattering silhouettes, breathability and ability to withstand many washes without pilling.
A cardigan is an essential layering piece, providing coverage and extra warmth without overheating. Opt for mid-weight knits in versatile colors to mix and match easily.
A turtleneck sweater is the perfect partner for winter, keeping your neck and chest cozy on cold days. Look for fine gauge merino or cashmere styles.
Trousers and Skirts
Fear not blustery winds or unexpected snow flurries with a selection of tailored bottoms designed for cold weather offices. Tommy Hilfiger, J.Crew and Banana Republic are go-tos for crisp wool trousers in classic cuts.
For an extra dose of warmth, look to corduroy or The North Face’s brushed twill pants. Skirts should stop just at or below the knee for modest mobility and coverage from chillier drafts – Cole Haan makes excellent pleated styles in winter-friendly tartans and plaids. Tucking comfortable knitwear tops into high-waisted trousers or a-line skirts maintains a put-together appearance whether seated at your desk or dashing between meetings.
Wide leg pants allow layering various styles of tights, socks or leggings for customized warmth throughout the winter season. Opt for fabrics like wool, corduroy or brushed twill.
Accessories
Cashmere scarves, leather gloves and knee-high boots complement your ensemble and provide practical protection from inclement weather.
Ankle boots and booties keep feet warm and dry during snow storms. Look for moisture-wicking linings and traction lug soles. Suede styles add texture while wiping clean easily.
A knit dress or midi skirt paired with thick tights is an effortlessly chic option when temps are mild. Unconstructed silhouettes layer well underneath blazers or cardigans.
Black jeans paired with black boots is a stylish yet comfortable go-to for tackling wintry commutes. The monochrome palette looks polished.
Casual sneakers offer flexibility for walking to meetings or the train/bus. Breathable mesh fabrics prevent overheating indoors.
Brand Reviews and Ratings
Banana Republic
A perennial favorite, Banana Republic consistently delivers on quality, style and value. Their coats are constructed from warm wool melton cloth with a flattering drape and an aura of sophistication. Multiple pockets provide ample storage, while raglan sleeves allow ease of motion.
User reviews commend Banana Republic attention to fit and ability to maintain shape wash after wash. With styles ranging from $300-$600, there’s an option to suit every budget. Earning a 4.8/5 star rating on their website and major retailers, it’s clear why Banana Republic is a go-to for investment outerwear that lasts season after season.
Everlane
For fresh takes on trends, Everlane delivers with puffers, quilted jackets and faux fur trims aplenty. Their designs scream fun and flirty without compromising on function – down fill provides cozy insulation, while water-resistant fabrics shield from the elements. Prices around $150 make statement coats accessible too.
Customers give high praise to Everlane inclusive sizing and note the brand’s dedication to fit and comfort across different body types. With a 4.5/5 star average rating at Nordstrom and Revolve, Everlane proves trendy silhouettes can absolutely have their place in a working wardrobe.
Patagonia
Award-winning Patagonia upholds the gold standard in ethical manufacturing and design. With womenswear produced exclusively in their own LEED-certified factories, the brand ensures the highest production standards are met. Their wool coats are cut for a slim tailored look while remaining comfortable and flexible.
Multiple fabric choices – including water-repellent and peached finishes – allow finding the right style for varying climate needs. Retailing between $500-800, Patagonia pieces represent an investment. Still, their timeless designs and diverse customizations continue impressing as reviewed by the New York Times, who called the brand “quintessential”.
Accessorizing Your Winter Office Look
Scarves and Gloves
No cold weather collection is complete without cozy accents. For scarves, look to cashmere blends from J.Crew, Banana Republic and Madewell that feel plush against the skin while their subtle sheens pair with any ensemble. Merino wool styles like those found at Arbor provide breathable warmth during intense activity too.
Gloves should offer dexterity without sacrificing heat – leather options like Tory Burch’s or touchscreen compatible styles allow full mobile use while outdoors. Plush fleece linings from Lands’ End prevent numb fingers in sub-zero temps too.
Footwear
When snow and slush cover sidewalks and streets, stylish boots make all the difference. For precipitation and puddles, Hunter boots maintain a professional polish in their rubber Rain or Short styles. With shearling lining, Sorel’s quilted boots keep toes toasty on blistery mornings.
For drier days, suede ankle boots like the Sam Edelman ‘Felicia’ or Naturalizer ‘Hillary’ deliver comfort and trend appeal with low heels and cushioned soles. Treads provide traction on slippery surfaces while leather uppers resist stains – making them suitable for transitioning from office to evening errands with ease.
Sustainable and Ethical Fashion Choices
Eco-Friendly Brands
For conscientious professionals, choosing eco-certified companies aligns outward style with inner values. Reformation leads the way in natural fabrics and climate initiatives, producing elegantly cut dresses and separates made from organic cotton.
Pact uses sustainably sourced modal for buttery basics in chic silhouettes, while Eileen Fisher offers timeless separates crafted from recycled materials. When purchasing workwear essentials from such brands, consumers can feel good knowing they’re lessening textile waste and supporting environmentally-conscious practices.
Ethical Production Practices
Fair Indigo pioneered compassionate denim manufacturing, paying farmworkers fair wages and banning harsh chemicals. Their jeans and jacket range proves stylish silhouettes need not compromise ethics. Durable cotton tops and trousers from Everlane come alongside supply chain transparency – allowing customers insight into fair compensation.
For premium wool and cashmere, Naadam sources directly from Himalayan communities, guaranteeing artisanal techniques and livelihoods. Selecting clothes made through equitable labor builds community strength, just as they do one’s wardrobe foundation for cooler seasons ahead.
Conclusion
With winter weather posing unique challenges for maintaining professional style, having a well-stocked wardrobe of versatile essentials ensures staying comfortable and put-together all season long. From puffer coats to turtlenecks, ankle boots to wide leg pants – this guide has covered a range of recommendations for the core items deserving a spot in every winter workwear collection.
Whether braving snow storms, transitional temperatures shifts, or just dressing for the office thermostat, choosing wardrobe staples from high-quality brands delivers lasting dependability. Selecting complementary accessories like leather gloves, cashmere scarves and knee-high boots provides practicality too.
Keeping various layering options on rotation, such as knit dresses, blazers and fitted sweaters, allows customizing warmth to any given day or temperature. Monochrome looks built around items like black jeans paired with knee-high boots maintain a polished aesthetic as well.
With so many dressing considerations to balance professionalism, comfort, practical functionality and personal style – curating a winter office wardrobe using the insights shared here equips you to feel confident and well-prepared no matter what Old Man Winter brings your way. Now go forth and refresh your closet with these must-have essentials to look polished all winter long!
