Sometimes, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, especially when you're at a loss for what to shop [1]. We don't blame you for throwing your hands in the air when you realise it's time to invest in a new coat [2]. Aside from gleaning inspiration from all that scrolling you've been doing on Instagram, street style moments [3] are few and far between this winter. That's why we've polled our editors and asked everyone to keep it real — these are the winter basics [4] we're actually shopping for, and the proof is in the outfit selfies we're sharing with you.
Most of the items you'll see on this list have one thing in common: they aren't super trend-focussed, simply because most of us have changed our shopping habits and committed to focusing on well-made, preferably sustainable items [5] that are actually going to last. Enter, Aritzia's new Super Puff shop with multiple choices for colorways, lengths, and finishes. As for shoes, every pair we hype up here are completely functional. They're sturdy, stylish, and chances are they go with most of what we already have stocked in our wardrobe. Ahead, find out which brands we're swearing by for this season's staples and shop your favourite picks.
Sarah Wasilak, editor, Fashion
"This winter, I'm really vibing in a neutrals moment, so I finally secured the Aritzia Super Puff in a colour and length that goes with everything. I always find myself adding a sporty touch to my looks (hence the baseball cap), but sometimes it's nice to add in something more sophisticated, like a nice snake print boot that isn't equipped with an insanely high heel."
Shop Sarah's Must Haves
"You can shop Aritzia's now-iconic Super Puff in virtually every colour of the rainbow, with multiple options for finishes and coat length. For me, it was the Tna Super Puff Mid Length in Matte Pearl [7] ($298). The creamy shade alone makes me feel like I'm headed to a luxurious ski resort somewhere."
Shop Sarah's Must Haves
"I'm all about collecting layering pieces that can be worn underneath my outerwear, but also feel really beautiful and intimate for wearing indoors. This Leigh New York Sabrina Blouse in Champagne [8] ($350) is definitely an upgrade from my hoodie."
Shop Sarah's Must Haves
"I love the thicker fabric of a work pant during the winter months, and I'm a big fan of Big Bud, which is a gender neutral clothing brand that offers unisex sizing. While I love the Big Bud Work Pants in Vintage Tee Off-White [9] ($85), they come in so many different colours, so I highly recommend you scope them all out."
Shop Sarah's Must Haves
"Like I said, my sporty twist on most outfits is a baseball cap or a sneaker. Right now, it just makes sense to wear one with an uplifting message, like Krost's Support Each Other Corduroy Cap [10] ($25). A portion of the proceeds go to NYC Food Bank [11] to help those in need. What? You thought this hat was all talk and no action?"
Dana Avidan Cohn, Executive Style Director
"While continuing to work from home my weekend and weekday wardrobe have definitely merged into one. My winter looks consist of cosy knits, denim, and chunky lace-up boots. As temperatures drop, I'll layer up with a textured shearling and cosy wool scarves."
Shop Dana's Must Haves
"This time of year begs for a Fair Isle sweater. I like this Rag & Bone Fran Crew Sweater [12] ($395) because the design is classic but in a playful, unexpected blue."
Shop Dana's Must Haves
"This Frame x Mejuri Le Chain Necklace [13] ($495) is perfect for every day. It's a way to add something special to your basics. I would wear it with t-shirts and oversize cardigans or blazers on repeat."
Shop Dana's Must Haves
"Working from home is a great opportunity to lean into a cosy shoe. The Brother Vellies Greg Shoe in Cow [14] ($395) is perfect to pair with a rolled jean and cosy sock."
Yerin Kim, associate editor, Trending and Viral Features
"I'm usually not one to shy away from colour in the colder months, but this winter, I've been gravitating towards neutral, earthy colorways and subtle prints over bright colours as I'm purchasing more thoughtful, long-lasting pieces. I've also been very into this hoodie and coat combo lately — it's just the perfect way to dress up a simple, comfortable outfit."
Shop Yerin's Must Haves
"I love the easiness of this menswear-inspired Babaton Davenport Wool Coat from Aritzia [15] ($199, originally $398). It's perfect for throwing over (and immediately elevating) a casual, comfortable outfit and the fit is so flattering."
Shop Yerin's Must Haves
"I've been living in this soft, fitted Long-Sleeve Hooded Sweatshirt from Uniqlo [16] ($30). It of course pairs nicely with some sweatpants to lounge around the house in, but also makes for a chic outfit when worn with a polished jacket and real pants. I need one in every colour!"
Shop Yerin's Must Haves
"Speaking of elevated comfort, I also have my eye on these Wide Leg Pants [17] ($245) from new Nepali cashmere brand Cashe. I'm already imagining pairing these with my trusty fitted hoodie or a fun pattern."
Nikita Charuza, editor, Fashion
"I strongly believe you can't go wrong in a cosy sweatsuit. While my spring wardrobe was full of prints and colours, I typically err on the neutral side when it comes to the winter. I've had my Aritzia puffer for a few years now and I love how it adds a subtle pop of colour."
Shop Nikita's Must Haves
"I was surprised by how comfortable these Talentless Staple Hoodie [18] ($124) and Talentless Sweatpants [19] ($119) were. I've worn them two days in a row now because of how soft they are."
Canada Goose Montebello Parka
"I love how chic this Canada Goose Montebello Parka [20] ($895) is."
Shop Nikita's Must Haves
"I'm obsessed with this Lisa Says Gah x KJP Lana Top in Blue Daisy Check [21] ($119). I can't wait to layer it under my hoodie or wear it as a standalone piece because of the cute print."
Shop Nikita's Must Haves
"To say I'm obsessed with my Tamara Mellon Clash Boots [22] ($695) would be an understatement. The brand even has a pair of adorable shearling-lined slippers you can totally wear out when it's cold."
Brea Cubit, assistant editor, Celebrity and Entertainment
"I like to keep things chic and simple, so my go-to style this winter incorporates basic cosy essentials: a comfy jacket, mockneck tops, knit beanies, and boots. Normally, I opt for a sweater and trench coat combo, but I've been gravitating toward teddy jackets lately. They're easier to layer with, and I love how snug they look."
Shop Brea's Must Haves
"As soon as I put on a jacket like Vero Moda's Longline Teddy Coat [23] ($119), I'm ready to go into hibernation. Seriously, I just want to be swaddled in this for the rest of the winter season."
Shop Brea's Must Haves
"Sanctuary's Mock Neck Essential Black Top [24] ($59) provides the sophisticated look and minimalist versatility that I love to include in my style."
Shop Brea's Must Haves
"As if I don't have enough shoes, I'm currently looking to add more to my wardrobe. Sincerely, Tommy's Black Mosley Boots [25] ($160) caught my eye because they're sleek, chic, and made from vegan leather [26]."