Winter Outfit Ideas: Our Expert Guide

Article published at: Dec 3, 2024
two women wearing silver and gold winter outfit ideas
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Winter is the most wonderful, magical time of the year — and that’s not just because it brings with it a whole lot of festive cheer and carols! Winter is the perfect season to pull out the comfy sweats, experiment with layers, and dazzle in sequins.

Whether you need some winter outfit inspiration for a Christmas party or a Winter Wonderland ball, you’re at the right place. Below, we’ve gathered plenty of winter outfit ideas for all kinds of festive occasions and preferences. 

Tips on How to Choose a Winter Outfit

From the weather and location to the outfit materials, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a winter outfit:

Weather

Winter brings with it freezing temperatures and unpredictable weather. Make sure you’re wrapped up warm and be prepared for rain or flurries of snow. Pack an umbrella when traveling, and also keep a scarf and pair of gloves on hand. 

It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you attend your winter event, as this will give you a much better idea of how you should style your outfit to maximize comfort.

Type of Event

A laidback Christmas party will call for a festive sweater and fleece-lined boots, while a work party with colleagues may require you to dress either semi-casually or more formally (think a midi-length knit dress and black heels). 

You should also be mindful of the dress code and if there are any activities planned. For example, if you’re going ice skating, you’ll want to stick to materials that’ll allow you to move freely.… This leads us nicely to our next point: 

Materials

This is by far one of the most important factors to consider. While you can get away with light materials like satin and linen in the summer, opting for these materials in the winter will leave you a cold, shivering mess. Instead, invest in high-quality, thick materials that’ll keep you warm during those frosty days.

Good options include cashmere, wool, fleece, velvet, and cotton. You can also wear a thermal undershirt for added protection. 

Event Location

Consider whether the winter event is held indoors or outdoors. If the event is held indoors, where you’ll be protected from the elements, wrapping up too warm may cause you to overheat. If you’re able to, consider scoping out the venue before the day to get an idea of the overall temperature and how warm you’ll need to dress.

Your Natural Features

You want your outfit to accentuate your natural features and allow your true beauty to shine, not hide it! Pick silhouettes, colors, and accessories that flatter you and allow you to feel confident. Don’t just wear what’s trending; trends come and go and aren’t suited to every person, while your features are here to stay.

Colors 

Winter traditionally calls for warm, neutral shades, such as creams, beiges, and browns. These shades are a safe bet for everyday winter looks or when attending formal occasions. 

However, if the event is Christmas-themed? Feel free to honor the festivities with bright, playful, and bold colors — think red, green, silver, and metallics. You can also experiment with patterns and textures; sequins, embellishments, sparkles, and 3-D prints work exceptionally well! 

Winter Outfit Ideas for All Kinds of Festive Occasions

Winter outfit ideas don’t need to be difficult to figure out. Grab a hot cocoa and get comfy - it’s time to get inspired by our outfit ideas below! 

A Snug Knit Dress

A knit dress won’t just keep you warm in the winter months; it’ll also keep you looking stylish and give off a modern, chic vibe. You can pair the dress with thick thermal tights and comfy fleece-lined brown boots for the ultimate winter combo. This outfit should suit any casual event and can also be dressed up effortlessly for more formal occasions.

If you are wearing a knit dress to an event with a formal-leaning dress code, opt for a neutral color and make sure to choose a dress style that flatters your figure and has a polished feel. Consider also styling with a sophisticated black leather belt, knee-high boots, and a blazer.

Oversized Cable Knit Sweater

An oversized cable knit sweater is a staple winter wardrobe piece, and it’s no surprise why: This attire keeps you warm and epitomizes the comfy, snug vibe of winter. An oversized sweater is perfect for a trip to your local Christmas market or a day out admiring the festive lights. While any color can work, stick to camel, ivory, or cream for a more sophisticated look.

Velvet Ball Gown

If you’re attending a winter ball with a formal dress code, it can be hard to find an outfit that’s both elegant and comfortable to wear. However, you certainly can’t go wrong with a velvet ball gown. Velvet is a luxurious texture that’s warm and quintessentially festive — perfect for a winter ball — and the ballgown silhouette is universally flattering and sure to make you the center of attention. 

Opt for a ball gown with a thermal inner layer to keep you extra toasty. If the event is held outside, consider adding stylish yet protective accessories, such as evening gloves or a sophisticated blazer.

Show Off Your Festive Cheer 

Want to channel your inner Christmas spirit? Then go bold with sequins, sparkles, festive patterns, bells, tinsel, and thick, comfy scarves! You can also incorporate bright festive hues like red and green.

When it comes to Christmas, clashing different colors and textures together is a part of the fun, so don’t be afraid to defy standard fashion rules and conventions. Once you feel like a walking Christmas tree, you know you’ve nailed the look!  

Wrap Coat and Leather Pants

A wrap coat with a pair of leather pants is an ideal winter outfit, providing an effortlessly polished vibe. Just make sure to opt for high-quality leather pants. Faux leather won’t offer the same level of heat protection as genuine leather. You can also strategically wear a pair of thermal leggings underneath if the temperature calls for it.

Neutral Plaid Coat 

A neutral plaid coat is a timeless look that can add a touch of class to any winter outfit. There are also plenty of ways to style a plaid coat, allowing you opportunities to express your personality. 

Dress up with black boots and a clutch bag, or keep things semi-casual with a pair of comfy jeans. If you want to take the winter feel up a notch, style the coat with a knitted hat, thick ankle boots, and a cream cashmere scarf.

Slim Fit Tweed Suit 

Let’s not forget about the gents! 

When putting together your winter outfit, you may want to consider a slim-fit tweed suit. The slim fit will keep you snug and looking polished, while the tweed pattern helps to convey a subtle festive touch. 

For formal events, stick to neutral hues and pair the suit with dress shoes and business trousers. If you’re attending an outdoor occasion, add a matching waistcoat for that extra layer of warmth. 

Matching Sweaters (for Couples)

Have a significant other in your life? Then consider expressing your love with matching sweaters. Winter is one of the few times when you have an excuse to be a hopeless romantic, so don’t be afraid to take advantage of this opportunity!

While you can pick any sweater design, consider choosing something sentimental to you both. This will allow you to treasure the sweaters for years to come rather than have them thrown to the back of your closet once the festive period is over.

Dressing for the Festive Season

Winter is the perfect opportunity to dress up snugly and play around with colors, textures, and patterns. However, make sure to prioritize your personal style above all else. Being authentic to yourself will allow you to truly feel confident in what you’re wearing. 

While it may sound cliche, confidence is truly the best ‘accessory’ you can bring to your outfit, and it’ll ensure you leave an impression on those around you.