10 Basics You Need In Your Winter Wardrobe

I love sharing outrageous styles and unexpected trends on my blog but I realize these items aren’t always realistic (or cost-effective) for the average person. Which is why today I’m sitting down to share ten basics that you need in your winter wardrobe. If you’re looking to revamp your closet look no further—here’s everything you need and four ways to style all of my top essentials. Enjoy!

1) Collared Shirt: Not only are collared shirts a wardrobe essential but they also happen to be one of winter 2021’s biggest trends. Dress em up for your office attire and down with a lacey bralette and leather pants for your weekend outing.

2) Straight Leg Jeans: Every girl needs a pair of good ole basic blue jeans. Reach for whatever style you feel most confident in. However, straight-leg jeans are all the rage this season. These have a super relaxed feel and pair with just about anything.

3) White Boots: I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, white shoes are the biggest closet staple—specifically white booties. Whether it be a sorority function, in-person class, or a date night these shoes are bound to be the perfect finishing touch.

How I’m Styling These: 

I am absolutely obsessed with this collared shirt from Fashion Nova. The cropped fit is a fun twist on a timeless piece and pairs perfectly with high-waisted bottoms. These straight-leg jeans are also a recent Fashion Nova find and they are so good. I have a tiny waist so finding jeans that fit properly is such a struggle for me. I’m wearing a 0 in these and they fit like a glove. They were a little long though as I am only 5’2″ but with a couple of cuffs, they looked just right.

As I said, white booties are a must. I have a few pairs in my closet but I thought these pointed ones would be the perfect addition to this outfit. I popped on my everyday gold jewelry, a few layered necklaces, and a cute baguette bag to spice things up a bit.

Outfit Details— top: Fashion Nova, jeans: Fashion Nova, boots: SheIn, purse: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, necklace: Romwe

4) Chunky Sweaters: Chunky sweaters are truly a must in any winter wardrobe. A good rule of thumb is to have a white and black version of these three styles: an oversized turtleneck, something fitted, and a cardigan. With these essentials, you’ll be able to create endless outfits with other items in your closet and every pair of pants imaginable.

5) Crossbody Bag: Crossbody bags have always been super practical but it wasn’t until this three-piece style became popular that I was drawn to them. These bags have a spot for everything, even your mask. Plus, they come in dozens of colors.

How I’m Styling These:

I’m sure most of you have an oversized sweater lying around in your closet—throw it on with your favorite pair of jeans. The key to keeping your outfit from looking frumpy is giving your sweater a little front tuck into your jeans and adding a simple ring belt to accentuate the waist. Although you’re wearing a pair of mom jeans you’ll look extra stylish.

I tend to pair my everyday sweater and jeans combos with chunky boots. Preferably something with a small heel to give me a little extra height. This pair is from Romwe! I’m also popping on my current favorite crossbody. This bag has been such a lifesaver this last month and truly fits all of the essentials. Add a gold chain necklace and hoops and you’re good to go.

Outfit Details— sweater: Fashion Nova, jeans: Fashion Nova, shoes: Romwe, purse: Romwe, earrings: SheIn, necklace: Romwe, rings: Ana Luisa, watch: Fossil, bracelets: Ana Luisa

6) Sweat Sets: Nothing screams online school quite like a matching sweatshirt and joggers. I’ve got dozens of sweat sets in my closet and can’t seem to stop adding more. If you’re just grabbing one, go for a neutral color so you can mix and match the top and bottom, getting three pieces for the price of one!

7) Basic Tanks: Little camis are a must-have whether it’s the dead of winter or sizzling summer. I layer these under sweatshirts, cardigans, flannels—you name it!

8) Platform Converse: I never thought I’d see the day of me being obsessed with high-top Converse again but here we are. The platform style is so comfortable (and trendy!). I find that these work with sweats, going-out tops, and even your everyday sweater. I have them in black and just ordered them in white from DSW.

How I’m Styling These: 

Oh, how I love a good matching sweat set. I tend to get most of my loungewear from Boohoo and Whitefox Boutique but I decided it was time to give Fashion Nova a chance. I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised! This set was crazy soft and super warm, reminding me so much of my favorite cashmere joggers. They have a real drawstring waistband and the hoodie is slightly cropped, hitting me at just the right spot.

Depending on the day, sometimes I will leave my hoodie zipped up and others I will leave it open with a basic cropped cami underneath like I have on here. This is a great way to get use out of my summer tops and it gives the loungewear an elevated feel. For shoes, I’m slipping into my new favorite kicks. I’ve been wearing my Converse like crazy lately—they go with everything and are super comfy!

Outfit Details— sweat set: Fashion Nova, top: SheIn, shoes: Converse, earrings: SheIn, necklace: Romwe

9) Layering Bodysuits: Speaking of basic tops, long sleeve bodysuits are an absolute must in my closet. I reach for these constantly and similar to the tiny tanks, these can be layered underneath anything and everything.

10) Knee Length Coats: Every girl needs a knee-length coat. I have a few different neutrals and reach for them daily whether it be for styling purposes or a quick trip to the grocery store. They instantly dress up an outfit and will leave you looking fresh off the streets of NYC. Try grabbing one that buttons for a little extra warmth in the winter.

How I’m Styling These: 

Last up I’ve got a super basic outfit combination that works for quite literally any occasion. Similar to that first look, I’m starting off in a white tee and jeans. Basic long sleeve bodysuits are perfect for layering and effortlessly tuck into your bottoms. I’ve got on another pair of straight-leg jeans—this time a pair with an asymmetrical waist. This detail is such a fun twist on your typical pair of blue jeans.

By adding a pair of nude sock booties and a matching knee-length coat, you’ve instantly dressed up this combo. Outerwear can make all the difference for your outfits; if you’re feeling a little drab then I highly recommend adding a coat to spice things up a bit. Add a few layered necklaces and a pair of hoops and you’re all good to go!

Outfit Details— jacket: Fashion Nova, top: Fashion Nova, jeans: Fashion Nova, boots: Fashion Nova, earrings: SheIn, necklaces: Romwe, rings: Ana Luisa

The Haul 

Be sure to check out today’s try-on haul to see all of these pieces (and more) in action! Links to everything can be found in the description bar as well as sizing information and more. It’s always a pleasure receiving new Fashion Nova pieces; if you want to see more hauls with them be sure to give this video a thumbs up and hit the subscribe button to stick around.

Well, you asked for winter wardrobe essentials and I gave em to you! If you’re looking to revamp your closet this season with versatile pieces these are my best recommendations. If you enjoyed seeing a few more basic outfits be sure to let me know; I’m happy to style more looks like these if you’re interested. Talk soon.

With love, McKenz

Latest Post: Recreating Pinterest Outfits Winter 2021
Related Post: 3 Fashion Nova Denim Favorites
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