How to embrace a winter capsule wardrobe

Posted on: 19/01/2024

Winter is in full swing, which means it's time to reshuffle your wardrobe. More often than not, the British weather dictates our outfits – but that doesn't mean you can't look great all the time. For those with a capsule wardrobe, this is your chance to re-jig your everyday items to create new, wearable looks that will help you get the most out of clothes you already own. View it as your chance to embrace staples that can't be worn during the warmer months.

Dig out those jumpers, revisit your jewellery and make sure you have everything you need to create timeless winter looks. Here's how to get your winter capsule wardrobe shipshape.

Waterproof footwear

Our choice of footwear dictates our outfits during the winter months. Rain, snow and mud mean that, unfortunately, we need to leave ballet flats, sandals and other unsuitable footwear to warmer, drier seasons. A capsule winter wardrobe calls for sturdy, comfortable footwear that won't get ruined in unpredictable weather.

Make sure you have a good pair of everyday trainers that go with a range of outfits, as well as a pair of winter boots. Chunky boots, from lace-ups to Chelsea boots, are a popular choice now, but choose whatever matches your personal style when compiling your winter capsule wardrobe. The main criterion they need to meet is being weatherproof.

Practical Accessories

Gloves, scarves, hats, wrist warmers, ear muffs – it's time to reintroduce all your 'warming' accessories. A good winter capsule wardrobe includes practical items that bring your outfits together. They can offer lots of styling opportunities too. If your clothing is mainly neutral, you could reach for a more vibrant scarf, for example.

Spend time mixing and matching your accessories with different outfits to get a feel for the looks you can create. Whatever your preference for capsule winter wardrobe accessories, the main thing is making them accessible for when you need to rush out of the house. You could keep them in a basket by the door so that you're never without a practical yet stylish accessory.

Knitwear

Knitwear, the holy grail of a capsule winter wardrobe, comes in many forms. We're talking chunky funnel-neck jumpers, wrap cardigans and even knitted dresses. You can channel all kinds of looks using different textures and colours across your collection.

Try pairing a chunky cardigan with a dress and boots to stay casual and comfy or combine a smart cashmere jumper with wide-leg trousers and heels for a more formal look. And remember, the so-called 'French tuck' can completely change up your look without the need to buy new items for your winter capsule wardrobe.

Jewellery

Jewellery is an important part of a solid winter capsule wardrobe. If you have less flexibility with your looks due to the weather, it can be a style lifesaver. It's helpful to think about the types of jewellery that complement knitwear and other accessories that feature in your collection.

You might find yourself gravitating towards a particular colour of metal for instance, or perhaps statement earrings that complement a chunky jumper. Bold jewellery tends to sit comfortably against the types of fabrics in winter capsule wardrobes, whether that's velvet, wool or cashmere. For special occasions at this time of year, you might bring out your favourite diamond jewellery to enhance your formal looks.

Outerwear

Bringing your big winter coats out of storage is the best part of compiling your capsule winter wardrobe. You might have a long wool trench coat that hides your outfit, in which case, you can have fun with your shoes and accessories.

Other coats that are a little shorter can offer different styling opportunities. You could pair a puffer jacket with wide-leg jeans and chunky trainers or wear a statement faux fur jacket with a dress, tights and statement boots. Don't forget to play around with your winter accessories – the styling possibilities are endless.

Get help from F.Hinds

If you're looking for a special piece of jewellery to add to your winter capsule wardrobe, F.Hinds could be the answer. We have an extensive selection of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and more online. Alternatively, you can head in-store to see our pieces in person and seek advice from the team.

You can buy with us in confidence, as we're members of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). This means that our jewellery meets ethical and social standards within the industry. On top of this, we have other accreditations showing our commitment to operating responsibly.