It wouldn’t be January without a grumble or two about the weather, but rather than getting bogged down by the bitter frost, let’s shift our focus towards how best to dress for it. When the temperature drops, a few reliable staples can make all the difference – and that’s where a smart winter capsule wardrobe comes in.

To help you get started, we’ve asked Team Stylist to do all the legwork by sharing their tried-and-true winter favourites. This doesn’t mean you need to splash out on a whole new wardrobe; sometimes, it’s as simple as adding a cosy woollen coat or the perfect winter accessory to bring extra warmth to your look.

Keep scrolling to read our round-up of the best high street finds to keep you snug from head to toe. We’re all wearing at least one – if not more – of these key winter pieces on repeat right now.

“Uniqlo’s HeatTech range really is my ride or die when winter comes around. Gloves that keep even the tips of your fingers from freezing? Check. Pyjamas that are cosy but also breathable? Check. Super-discreet thermal layers that allow you to stay warm without bulking up? Absolutely. Plus the greatest pair of socks you could ever hope to put on your feet. Clearly, I’m a big fan, but if I had to choose just one product, the crew socks take the cake. I have mine in every colour available but the pop of cherry red is particularly good for those gloomy January days when you need a bit of cheering up.”

“When it’s super-cold, I’m a big fan of wearing one heavyweight item with lots of layers. I usually opt for a heavy coat, otherwise a heavyweight crew-neck or roll-neck knit (I have a lovely one from Reiss x Les 100 Ciels, which I’m wearing a lot at the moment) worn over a T-shirt along with trousers or jeans and flat ankle boots. I’ll add a soft scarf or a hood (or both) and gloves.”

“Besides being glued to my plug-in heater and living in my snuggly PJs (Peachaus are my go-to for comfort), my padded gilet is the real game-changer. The Uniqlo HeatTech gilet is amazing but I also love the Barbour styles. They’re lightweight enough to fit under my heavier layers, like my navy Topshop twill coat. This little trick has been a lifesaver for days when I’m heading to work, a party or an event because the gilet stays hidden under my coat, so I can stay toasty and look put together without anyone noticing.

“Earmuffs and balaclavas are both essentials on freezing days (though I don’t wear them together to avoid too many accessories). My black hood from Hush is simple and goes with everything, but I’ve been eyeing up some brighter options too, like Straw x Herd’s red bonnet. It’s such a cheery accessory and it’ll protect my ears.”

“I’m a big fan of M&S’s Heatgen thermal tops as an added layer of warmth under your regular jumper. I lived in them the winter I spent in a freezing cold rental and still rely on them for frosty WFH days or chilly January trips out. They’re super-stretchy and fit close to your body to keep in the heat, plus they’re lined in fleece for an extra soft, pyjama-like feel. Even better, the cut is on the long side, so they tuck neatly into jeans without riding up. I’ve got two: one round-neck that goes under everything and a navy turtleneck that sits seamlessly under chunky roll-necks.”

“I have rheumatoid arthritis and it can flare up in the cold, particularly in my feet, so I’m forever grateful for the socks with silver thread my mum bought me. They’re designed to help people with chilblains and poor circulation, and they save my toes (and everyone around me from my whinging) every winter. They’re also thin enough that I can wear them under a sports sock for netball or over tights with boots and not feel like I’m wearing bricks on my feet.

“I also have a collarless Uniqlo gilet that fits neatly under any coat for a stealthy added layer. It’s not going to win any sexy winter clothing awards, but ultimately, what’s sexier than staying warm?”

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands