It might be the season of blanket-sized scarves, triple socks and coats that resemble duvets, but you don’t have to sacrifice your personal style to survive the cold snap. It’s 2023 (gulp), so by now, designers big and small have figured out how to make clothing that’s practical and beautiful. And we couldn’t be more grateful.
That being said, stocking up on winter clothing can leave quite a dent in your bank balance. Think about it: cold-appropriate items are heavier, thicker, and made from insulating fabrics—which are generally more expensive. From leather boots to wool-blend knitwear, it all starts adding up quickly.
But even if you’re on a budget, there are plenty of options on the high street that look and feel more costly than they are. In fact, I think I speak for the whole Who What Wear team when I say that brands like H&M, & Other Stories and M&S are some of our go-to’s for winter staples.
If you need a little inspiration for building outfits around this month’s best high-street buys, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve curated the most luxurious-looking outfits I could find and recreated them using affordable alternatives. Scroll on to see and shop the looks you need to beat the chill in style.
Style Notes: Lindsey Holland is the master of effortless cool, and as her outfits mainly consist of timeless staples, they’re (thankfully) quite easy to recreate.
Fleece sweatshirts are a necessity at this time of year.
A coat you’ll hold onto for years.
H&M’s denim is really high-quality for the price.
Doesn’t this look designer?
Loafers always look so sleek.
Style Notes: The rule this season seems to be that if you add a striped jumper, your outfit will instantly be on-point. Throw in some leather and you’ve got yourself a very of-the-moment look.
This looks exactly like so many luxury iterations I’ve seen.
This silhouette is seriously flattering.
I love the thick heel on these boots—it’ll make them far easier to walk around in.
Style Notes: It’s the season for supersized scarves to shine. Opt for a colour-pop accessory, like editor Yusra Siddiqui, to give your ensemble some spark.
This khaki shade works well with brights and neutrals.
A true winter wardrobe staple. Wear with trousers, jeans, leggings, skirts and dresses.
H&M’s trousers are well worth the hype (especially at that price).
Speaking of brights…
Style Notes: I’m always drawn to a monochrome look, and this sleek outfit is no exception. I adore the contrast between the slinky skirt and the edgy ankle boots.
A simple black jumper is an essential layering piece.
I don’t think I’ve seen a slip skirt with a drawstring waist before; now, I think they should all have one.
COS’ cross-body bags repeatedly sell out.
You’ll feel ten times cooler the moment you step into these stompers.
Style Notes: When in doubt, wear a suit. It’s the most foolproof way to look like you’re on your fashion game—particularly if you pair it with killer boots, like Lucy Williams.
All our editors own a version of this Arket blazer.
And of course, you’ll need the matching Hopsack trousers.
Layer a lacy bralette under this semi-sheer turtleneck.
Warning: may cause compliments.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
