Layering is the key to staying warm, and its important to pick different-length pieces in fine knits and thin cotton in order to avoid looking like a sausage. A capsule winter wardrobe is essential to pulling this off.
- leggings - either thermal or knitted - the texture will add a focal point for any outfit, and mixing up textures is a great way of making an outfit look interesting even if the pieces are just block colours. Topshop have a pair of cable knit leggings that I've been lusting over (see above), or just stock up on thermals from Primark. Leggings are better for every day in winter than tights, so there's no point in breaking the budget unless you're looking to make a daily statement.
- chunky knit cardigan - slouchy is best, a rounded-shoulder style. Big buttons, perhaps mismatched, and in a neutral-yet-warming coloured wool, such as khaki, charcoal or russet. Zara have some nice chunky knit pieces this winter (see above) which are perfect for dry chilly days.
- a long-line fine knit dress, perfect for layering t-shirts underneath and jumpers over the top. 3/4 sleeve and either a scoop or cowl neck works best, but this is one of those items that simply has to be the best possible fit and, if possible, treat it as an investment.
- patterned scarves - I hate to wear an outfit that has no pattern in at all, and a scarf is a great way of achieving this injection of interest as well as something which can top off an otherwise lazy outfit. In my opinion, the busier and more chaotic the pattern, the better - don't worry about clashing! Vintage scarves are often the best option, and car boot sales can be a treasure trove. Head to the nearest old lady selling clothes and you're certain to find a treat.
Rather than wearing two jumpers, for example, opting for a thin vest top or tee with capped sleeves, with a knitted slouchy jumper thrown over the top can achieve the same warming effect without the unwanted chunkiness, and you'll get to show off both pieces at the same time. Choose two contrasting colours and its even better. Otherwise, a cute floral minidress teamed with thermal leggings and a cropped jumper, pulled together with a waist belt, offers three different textures and a way of dragging your summer favourites into winter!
One of the main stumbling blocks of winter fashion is whether to use colour or not. This season, colour is absolutely in, so there is nothing to stop you from accessorising with patent brights or including vivid tones in your make-up.
My manta of 'more is more' is ever applicable, but especially when it comes to finding an outfit which is both practical and helps to banish winter blues!
