As December arrives, fashion editor Jess Cartner-Morley offers a serene antidote to seasonal shopping panic with a curated edit of winter style essentials. This is not a last-minute Christmas guide, but a selection of items to keep you stylishly warm, whether you're shopping for loved ones or treating yourself.
Winter Warmth and Wardrobe Staples
First on the list is a transformative coat from the Icelandic brand 66°North. The Dyngja cropped down jacket, priced at £440, has converted a former puffer-sceptic. Renowned for outfitting Iceland's coastguards since 1928, it offers supreme warmth with a pillowy collar and detachable hood. Crucially, it's designed to fall gracefully, avoiding the bulky posture often associated with chunky jackets. The brand's commitment to sustainability includes a repair service, supported by an archive of old zips and fastenings at its Icelandic HQ.
For footwear, Marks & Spencer provides a standout option: Suede gold detail block heel ankle boots for £60.80. With a 7.5cm chunky heel and supportive fit, they make suede relevant again for day-to-night wear.
Accessories and Indulgences
The call of the wild west is strong this season, with Cartner-Morley citing an urgent need for a western-style belt. The Darci belt from Streets Ahead (£153), spotted on Beyoncé, delivers the desired saloon-door energy with its chunky buckle and arrow-shaped tip.
For a festive party accessory, the Kurt Geiger Kensington heart bag in red (£99) offers a secure, cross-body alternative to a clutch. It's perfectly sized for phone, cards, keys, and lipstick.
Personalised jewellery makes for a thoughtful gift, and Accessorize's Gold-plated bubble initial ring (£16) fits the bill perfectly. Cartner-Morley herself bought three to spell out her initials.
Luxurious Layers and Cosy Treats
Investing in quality knitwear is a winter must. New brand Baker Miller Pink offers a Cashmere sweatshirt for £180, made from ethically sourced cashmere with a classic sportswear silhouette. It promises the genuine feel and longevity that synthetic blends lack.
For ultimate home comfort, Liberty's Tana Lawn pyjamas (£157.50) in iconic prints are described as timeless, with a soft, breathable fabric that improves with washing.
H&M's Wool tuxedo blazer (£189.99) from its Studio collection is hailed as a potential high-street treasure for the party season, with satin lapels and kissing buttons on the cuff making it a versatile outfit-maker.
Finally, no edit is complete without little luxuries. Zara's Ribbed socks with metallic stripes (£9.99) are cited as an elegant, spirit-lifting treat. For a unique festive snack, Lakrids by Bülow chocolate-covered liquorice (from £16) is passionately recommended as a divine alternative to standard chocolates.
