As December sets in, London’s streets gradually shed their autumnal layers, replaced by a serene palette of grey-blues. The city begins preparing for the glow of Christmas lights and the bustle of festive crowds. The air carries a mingling scent of cinnamon, roasted chestnuts, and morning mist. I’ve never resisted winter, especially early winter—it lacks the heaviness of deep winter but is enough to awaken my desire for layered styling. Early winter is fashion’s “grey zone”—a transitional time in my wardrobe that offers the most creative possibilities.
This season, I’m striving to make outfits not just a reaction to the cold, but a reflection of my inner rhythm. Not purely for warmth, nor just to stand out, but to find that subtle balance between comfort and personal style. Every choice of garment, every outfit assembled before stepping out the door, is a moment of breathing in sync with this city.
1. The Logic Behind My Early Winter Wardrobe
Early winter’s temperature is unpredictable. Mornings and evenings are often bitingly cold, while daytime can be deceptively mild. In this kind of weather, one thick layer is neither practical nor stylish. The key is thoughtful layering.
I always follow a three-layer system:
• First layer: Close-fitting thermal base, like thin merino wool turtlenecks or cotton T-shirts—soft and non-bulky
• Second layer: The visual centerpiece—sweaters, knits, or lightweight padded vests, which bring both warmth and texture
• Third layer: The protective outer shell—wool coats, wool-blend jackets, or leather pieces that guard against the chill while making a statement
This structure allows for easy adjustment as temperatures shift throughout the day, keeping me both stylish and comfortable from morning until night.
2. Key Pieces in My Early Winter Wardrobe
If spring and summer are a playground of colours, then early winter is a celebration of texture. Choosing the right fabrics is the foundation of any elegant winter look. I pay close attention to how materials feel against my skin—especially when wearing multiple layers.
(1) Merino Wool Base Layers and Half-Turtlenecks
A quality wool base can make scarves almost unnecessary. I look for soft Merino or cashmere blends that feel smooth against the skin. I favour versatile shades like soft camel, ash grey, and black, which work both as standalone pieces or layered under outerwear. I once bought a muted brown-grey half turtleneck from a small local boutique in London—putting it on always brings the sensation that winter has truly arrived.
(2) Structured Coats: The Heart of Presence
The oldest piece in my closet is a black-and-grey plaid wool overcoat with strong shoulders and a clean silhouette. Even if I’m just walking to the corner bakery, wearing it feels like stepping onto a runway. I often build a look around this formula: coat + simple base + a vibrant accessory. Aside from structure, I also love coats in camel, charcoal, and navy—colours that carry the emotional depth of winter.
(3) Knitted Mid-Layers: Warmth with Texture
I believe knits are the most intimate expression of early winter style. Unlike chunky sweaters that wrap you up, knitwear feels like a second skin—warm and close. They work layered over shirts or worn on their own. Details like V-necks, dropped shoulders, or cable textures can shape the mood of an outfit. I especially adore a cream cable-knit vest that I pair with a white shirt and mini skirt—it brings a rare sense of lightness to the season.
(4) Boots: From Practicality to Style Statement
From late November, my boots begin to rotate into daily wear. Ankle boots are the most versatile and pair well with both trousers and skirts. Knee-high boots make a stronger statement, particularly with mini skirts or wool shorts—they’re both warming and powerful. A well-cut leather boot can elevate even a simple black legging into something striking.
3. Early Winter Colour Palette: Between Warmth and Chill
I take joy in playing with colour combinations. Nature’s tones are my biggest inspiration for early winter—cobalt sky, burnt orange leaves, ivory fog, and damp chocolate brown. These hues not only harmonize with the surroundings but add emotional warmth to the look.
• Classic Greys with Bright Accents: Grey isn’t dull in winter—in fact, it offers the most sophistication. Adding accents like mustard, brick red, or royal blue through scarves, bags, or earrings creates a striking balance.
• Monochromatic Looks: Camel and off-white shades feel especially tender in early winter. Combining different textures—wool, leather, knit—avoids a flat look and adds interest.
• Balancing Black and Brown: While black is a safe choice, I prefer breaking its intensity with “impurities”—deep brown boots, caramel bags, or matte gold accessories that give dimension and life to an outfit.
4. Scene-Based Outfits: Shifting Roles in Early Winter
I often plan outfits based on specific moments in my daily routine. It helps me stay grounded and prepared for whatever the day brings. Here are some of my go-to early winter combinations:
(1) Urban Walking Days: Practical Elegance
• Outfit: Merino wool turtleneck + knit midi skirt + structured long coat + leather ankle boots
• Thoughts: Emphasizing clean lines for easy walking and wind resistance; a colourful scarf or bag adds a needed energy boost.
(2) Café Afternoons: Relaxed Yet Refined
• Outfit: Vintage-style knit vest + white shirt + wool wide-leg trousers + long boots
• Thoughts: Creating visual layers through fabric and structure; I like picking vests with unique patterns or retro details for added charm.
(3) Art Exhibits and Indoor Events: Thoughtful Detailing
• Outfit: Fitted black knit dress + tweed-style jacket + wool shawl + nude mid-heel shoes
• Thoughts: Focusing on elegance and neat lines; accessories like earrings or a watch serve as personal highlights.
(4) Short Trips and Countryside Walks: Function Without Sacrificing Style
• Outfit: Wool base layer + down vest + knitted joggers + combat boots
• Thoughts: Neutral tones dominate, but accessories bring an outdoor vibe—like a mountaineering scarf or suede bucket bag for a touch of charm.
5. My Universe of Early Winter Accessories: Functional and Finishing Touches
Winter accessories aren’t just for looks—they’re essential for warmth and practicality. My criteria are simple: keep me warm, and make a statement.
• Scarves: I prepare a variety of lengths and materials. My favourite is a navy wool scarf with embroidered edges—it brings a touch of scholarly elegance to any coat.
• Earrings and Hair Accessories: Winter often messes with hairstyles thanks to hats, so I opt for small earrings or delicate hair clips—tiny flashes that energize an entire look.
• Handbags: I prefer mid-sized, structured designs in rich colours like chestnut, deep wine, or forest green—shades that ground and lift any winter outfit.
6. My Favourite Early Winter Brands
• & Other Stories: Beautifully tailored knitwear and outerwear—perfect for someone who loves understated design and fine detailing.
• Arket: Minimalist styles with clever surprises; their coat silhouettes are consistently irresistible.
• Amazon Essentials: Reliable base layers and knit basics available in many styles, great for everyday layering or packing on trips.
• Uniqlo: The HEATTECH collection is a winter essential—warm, invisible, and sleek, it’s the secret hero beneath every outfit.
7. Early Winter: The Gentle Season for Style Practice
Every early winter feels like a quiet reset. It’s not about starting over, but about reclaiming control over life’s tempo amid the cold. Clothes are no longer just a shield against chill—they’re a way of recalibrating the soul.
This city remains moist and brooding, but I keep myself defined, warm, and steady through what I wear. The scent of coffee caught in the folds of a scarf, the pale winter sunlight along the lapels of my coat, the crunch of boots on fallen leaves—these are part of my fashion memory of early winter.
