These Are the Winter Workwear Essentials Your Wardrobe Needs

Hot take: We prefer the cropped version to the original Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan. And while both are what cozy dreams are made of, this one hits our waistband at just the right place and looks more polished with dresses. It’s made out of soft cashmere that’ll last forever. ($445, Jenni Kayne)

You can’t go wrong with a good sweater dress. This one is in a maxi length, so it’ll keep your legs covered during your morning commute. The mock neck is chic, the ribbed fabric looks expensive, and it’ll pair well with any of your blazers or jackets. ($40, Target)

When we say Abercrombie is back and better than ever, this is what we mean. From the collar to the belted silhouette, this wool-blend coat is a classic you’ll wear for years to come. It’ll actually keep you warm and comes in four colors, including a burgundy that’s especially on-trend. ($176, Abercrombie & Fitch)

One office outfit formula we love is jeans or trousers paired with a turtleneck bodysuit and your choice of layering piece on top. It looks good every time and allows you to utilize all the blazers and cardigans in your repertoire. This bodysuit is made out of soft ribbed cashmere that feels like a hug. Grab a few of the neutrals to build out your workwear wardrobe. ($39.90, Quince)

Wear this soft wrap as a scarf as you head into the office, then throw over your shoulders and wear it as a shawl when the AC is blasting. It’s also great for winter weddings. ($116.50, J.Crew)

We found your new favorite work pants. These are made of Italian wool with a hint of stretch, so they’re both warmer and comfier than most trousers. The pleats are classic, and they have elastic in the back of the waistband. Pair them with a crewneck sweater and loafers, and you’re out the door. ($99.90, Quince)

We love that these have a slim leg, so they won’t look sloppy or overwhelm smaller frames. We also love the three inseam lengths and would wear any of the three washes. Plus, they look great paired with sneakers, heels, or booties, and they have a bit of stretch so you’ll be comfortable all day. ($129, Mott & Bow)

A few of our editors have this and they swear by it. Not only does it come in three timeless colors, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s thin enough to take to the office during spring and summer, but since it’s cashmere, it’s warm enough to slip over base layers during the colder months. You can wear it as a top on its own, or you can treat it like a traditional cardigan and wear it open with a tank, tee, or lightweight turtleneck underneath. It’s a splurge item, but it’s ideal for so many different seasons that it’s worth it. ($298, Reformation)

Riding boots will never go out of style, especially these by Frye, which is one of the sleekest pairs we’ve ever worn. The leather is soft, supple, and only gets better with each wear, and they look great worn with dresses, skirts, or over skinny jeans (yes, they’re having a comeback). The best part? They have a zipper on the side, so you won’t show up to work sweating from trying to pull them on. ($277.98, Frye)

If you ask us, a leather blazer is a nonnegotiable for winter office ’fits, since it layers so easily. This one has an oversized, menswear-inspired silhouette, which makes it timeless, but it tucks at the waist, so it won’t overwhelm small frames. The buttery leather makes it look vintage, and while it’s pricey, you’ll never stop finding new ways to wear it. If you’re looking for something that’s less of a splurge, we love this faux-leather version. ($568, Madewell)

This cashmere sweater is slightly shrunken, so it hits right at your hips, making it just right to pair with your favorite jeans. It looks good under a blazer and comes in several bright colors. Just add a classic belt and booties, and you have an entire outfit. ($118, J.Crew)

If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that polished sweatshirts do exist, and Anine Bing makes some of our favorites. This one comes in a classic black and looks great with jeans for a casual day or dressed up with trousers and heels. It’s 100% cotton and has a soft, lived-in feel from the first wear. ($200, Revolve)

We love these wide-leg tailored pants from Abercrombie. The high-rise fit is perfect, the front pleats are classic, and the cream color would look so good with a full winter-white outfit. Pick up a few colors, why not? ($72, Abercrombie & Fitch)

While we may have originally purchased these strictly as work pants, these trousers have quickly become our go-tos for any occasion. We’ve worn them on a date, shopping on the weekends, and even to a baby shower. The magic is in the combination of the cinched high waist and the wide leg; it makes any outfit feel put together without being too stiff. It’s a model-off-duty look for every day. ($225, Net-A-Porter)

A white button-up is a classic for a reason. This one has a relaxed fit, so it pairs well with jeans and even looks cute worn as an overshirt with your favorite tee underneath. You’ll never get tired of styling it, and it comes in six colorways. Grab a few so you’re set for the whole year. ($88, Everlane)

We love to see a dress like this that’s essentially a blank canvas for accessories. Throw this on with tights and loafers, and tie a sweater around your shoulders to go full prep. The next time you wear it, pull on heeled knee-high boots and add a menswear coat to channel Taylor Swift. The possibilities are endless. ($178, Anthropologie)

Besides being downright stylish, these loafers are also comfy. We love the menswear-inspired look with the penny slot on top. Pair them with jeans in winter, then skirts, and dresses in spring. Don’t forget the frilly socks. ($175, Free People)

Time and time again, we’ve thrown on this turtleneck with jeans, and felt incredibly polished with minimal effort. It’s made of a soft, ribbed cotton that’s breathable, so you won’t be sweating when the heat turns on. It comes in seven colors. ($50, Everlane)

There’s something about a slip skirt that’s so effortlessly chic. We love Aritzia’s, with its midi length and elastic waistband so you won’t be uncomfortable sitting at your desk all day. It’s made of high-shine satin that has a rippling effect, so you won’t have to worry about it getting wrinkled. ($98, Aritzia)