One of the loveliest things about our chilliest season is the chance to wear winter whites.
When styled just right, pieces that come in shades of rich and creamy ivories, beiges, or whites with gray or yellow foundations can combine to create an incredibly sophisticated monochromatic look. Especially in substantial materials like cashmere and boiled wool, flannel, and alpaca (and of course, over a classic cotton shirt or turtleneck), they offer layers of elegance and coziness.
Here are 10 piece to mix and match for the ultimate winter white wardrobe:
Turtlenecks or shirts: Winter white magic begins with either a basic turtleneck or a heavier cotton button-down shirt. Basics need to be high-quality, though, since you’ll wear them a lot. Ralph Lauren’s Jersey Turtleneck Top by Lauren ($75 on ralphlauren.com) in Mascarpone Cream is an excellent design; it has a slim fit and just-enough stretch, plus half sleeves to keep you from getting too warm under layers.
A classic, loose-cut pant: Nothing says luxury like an off-white pant style midwinter — and it compliments everything. I love Xirena’s Florian Pant ($298 on gretta.co) — a pull-on utility design with a hint of easygoing stretch. It’s cool and casual, but also completely fluid and elegant.
A versatile jacket: A structured-yet-pretty coat is essential for layering, and the Gathered Quilted Down Jacket by Cos ($229 on cos.com) fits that bill perfectly. Buy it in warm Ecru, and wear it over the above turtleneck and pant for maximum impact. It’s also gorgeous on top of any neutral dress with a bow at the neck, too.
White denim: This is not just for summer. At least not in heavier versions like the Jules Slim-Straight Jean ($148 on madewell.com) and the matching Sherpa-Lined Denim Jacket ($268 on madewell.com). Consider it a high-impact set, or break them up and wear each one with a beige T-shirt and/or an oatmeal-hued skirt. Both come with stretch and are cut to flatter.
A statement accessory: One of the most fun aspects of winter whites is bringing in unexpected textures into everyday looks. Witness Marni’s Shearling Bucket Bag ($835 on gretta.co). The highly functional, Italian-made miniature number comes in bone-hued faux shearling with brown handles, and elevates any outfit.
A creamy cashmere sweater: It’s a piece that’s come to embody low-key luxury. An off-white turtleneck cashmere is a staple for good reason, and the Aurelia Cashmere Sweater ($69.99 on alexander-hampton.com) in Beige is a cloud-soft cashmere blend with a roomy fit that still has structure thanks to ribbed detailing at the cuffs and neckline.
Sporty athleisure: No closet is complete without at least one hybrid piece to lean on, and the Heritage Terry Jogger Pant With Side Stripe ($118 on jcrew.com), in Pale Ibis is a great choice. The tangerine stripes down the sides lend a fresh splash for casual days, and they’re easily paired with either the aforementioned cashmere sweater or a matching hoodie.
A day-to-night dress: White dresses can sometimes run the risk of looking bridal, but not if you opt for a midi with boots in a stretchy fabric for comfort and long sleeves. One such winner is the Kailee Texture Long Sleeve Midi Dress by Elliatt ($288 on nordstrom.com) in Ivory. It’s delicate but structured, and as at home at the office as it is on a dinner date.
An all-purpose cardigan: As go-to tailoring goes, few pieces have the power of the jacket-cardigan. And The Merritt Wrap Jardigan ($279 on mmlafleur.com) in Ivory is a showstopper. Toss it on over a white button-down, or a beige sweater dress, or pair it with silver-gray denim for a professional-casual look.
Funky footwear: White winter boots in New England may not exactly seem practical, but the Moon Boot women’s icon low nylon boots ($195 on jcrew.com) in Cream are a different animal altogether. The Italian ski boot design is inspired by high-tech astronaut gear, and is constructed of insulated nylon fabric, with a padded rubber sole that provides traction in every environment. Even Boston snow.



