9 Minimalist Winter Wardrobe Basics That Will Have You Ready in 3 Minutes (or Less)

Consider a big, roomy sweater to be sleepwear you can wear in public. Because yes, oversize knits are that comfy. Toss one on over jeans, faux-leather leggings or even a sweaterdress when your mind says “sleep” but your schedule says “hustle.”

Get the look: Chelsea28 ($79); Vince ($395; $160); Jenni Kayne ($395)

Less bulky than a parka and way more put together than a puffer, a wool coat is an outward projection of the chic outfit underneath (even if you’re too bundled to see it). Top it off with a cashmere beanie or beret and you won’t have to worry about your hair either. Simply opt for an unfussy color—think ivory, gray or black—and keep the silhouette streamlined so your outerwear can be as versatile as possible.

Get the look: Helene Berman ($295); Lauren Ralph Lauren ($360; $300); Mackage ($950)

Behold, the hero of your winter wardrobe. Layer it under an oversize sweater or rock it on its own with leather pants. A turtleneck works with any item on this minimalist list for extra style points (and warmth) without adding too much bulk.

Get the look: Everlane ($35); Universal Standard ($45); Rag & Bone ($95)

A power suit is always a good choice, but don’t be afraid to break up the set and let your blazer soak up the spotlight. Look for a slightly oversize, more relaxed silhouette to bring unstuffy sophistication to jeans and tees. Drape it over your shoulders at the office while everyone else is under their desk blanket.

Get the look: Topshop ($47); Allsaints ($167); Jacquemus ($790)

Comfier and warmer than blue jeans, faux-leather pants are the perfect item to wear when you need to be out the door by 8 a.m. and won’t be home until after happy hour. Keep your eyes out for a straight cut that feels modern when worn with simple boots or white sneakers (and don’t forget to finish off your look with a white turtleneck and a boyfriend blazer, as mentioned above).

Get the look: BlankNYC ($98); Commando ($128); David Lerner ($264)

A sweaterdress doesn’t have to fit like a sack. We love these modern styles that feature a row of buttons down the front or a waist-nipping belt, creating a svelte silhouette (Spanx optional). Plus, these knits can easily become a go-to one-and-done outfit when you add a pair of tights and knee-high boots.

Get the look: Topshop ($85); Moon River ($105); Sanctuary ($119)

This might be the most boring item on the list, but it’s certainly practical. Dark jeans are dressy enough for many office settings, and the slim cut means they can be styled with almost every kind of shoe: Tuck them into knee-high boots, step into stilettos or pair them with combat boots. The options are endless.

Get the look: Madewell ($128); AG ($178); Paige ($179)

When your outfit feels like it needs a little something extra, whether it’s another layer or an additional accessory, throw on a blanket scarf. Not only will it dress up your wool coat, but it will also function as a chic wrap once you remove that top layer. You’d do best to avoid any scarf with sparkles, wild prints or colors that could clash with anything currently in your closet. The simpler the better.

Get the look: Free People ($40); Allsaints ($118); Charter Club ($189; $60)

If you rock only one pair of shoes all winter, make it ankle boots. This super versatile shoe goes with everything (straight-leg jeans, sweaterdresses, you name it), and if you stick to a block heel, it’s comfy enough to wear everywhere the day takes you. Opt for a neutral color like black or dark brown to ensure these booties fit in seamlessly with the clothing you already own.

Get the look: Topshop ($125); Vince Camuto ($150); Bells & Becks ($425)