11 London Fashion Winter Clothing Must-haves

As a travel writer who relocated to my hometown of London last autumn after years of living in New York, Berlin, Copenhagen, and other overseas capitals, I found that the British aesthetic hit me hard and fast as soon as I touched down. 

Anyone who’s spent time in London will know how stunningly fast winter lands its bleak self — and how long it sticks around — in the U.K. The upside to this weather, however, is that it’s the best time to unearth some of my absolute favorite garments, from elegant androgynous tailored numbers to campy accessories that add bursts of spontaneous color. And because I’m always on the go, I make sure to have travel clothes that allow me to pack lightly and efficiently whether I’m away for a month, a week, or even just a day. So, I rounded up 12 posh British-inspired styles I’ve spotted all around London this season — and they’re perfect for a variety of trips and events.

An elegant button-down sweater dress

This is a classic London look for me. I love that it’s made of 100 percent cotton for a comfortable, warm ensemble. Pair it with boots and a heavy jacket for a versatile look that can go from a business meeting to dinner and drinks. 

Loose jeans

I opt for jeans that are cinched at the waist lightly, and I like the baggy drop of this cut so I can move freely and not be sliced in two when I sit down. These can go for a few wears between washes, as they don’t stretch but fit loose and comfortably after some moving around town. I like to pair them with a bright sweater, an evening jacket, and a heel if moving from day to night.

Statement puffer jacket

Another winter staple for a snow day in London is a puffer jacket. This metallic number from Levi’s glams up any outfit while providing plenty of warmth with its lined interior and roomy hood (which is also removable). The front zip pockets are perfect for storing essentials and the water-resistant exterior will keep you dry.

Oversized long coat

Ultimately, though, any Londoner needs a coat with good coverage and deep warmth for bleak midwinter in the smoke. The boxy cut and double-breasting on this Mango wool-blend coat are divine, with the elegant lapels adding a stylish masculine edge. It’s also something I would essentially prioritize taking with me on one of my frequent trips back to Scandinavia where I used to live. 

A cowboy boot

I have a robust collection of boots. While I like a slight Western touch to my look in the form of a pair of knee-high boots, sumptuous colors, and oversized tailoring, I like that this option from Vivaia is a little more subtle. Plus, it has a water-repellant exterior that makes it possible to wear in wet, icy, or snowy conditions. And because my chosen mode of transportation around London is walking, I love the comfortable block heel and insole that provides pressure relief.

A crossbody bag

When I’m traveling, I often take the dreaded 90-minute dash through London to get to one of the airports, and a crossbody stalwart such as this makes me feel a lot more secure about my belongings. Its shade is autumnal and unshowy, just how I like my day bags. I also use it when I’m working in the city; it’s ideal when I’m hopping from meeting to meeting to event and I can store essentials inside like my wallet, perfume, extra gloves, book, headphones, notebook, pen, and makeup.

A neutral sweatshirt

Alongside my travel career — which has seen me exploring both poles of the earth, Rio during carnival, Georgian wine country, the wild west of Japan, the Mekong river, the deepest corners of rural Ireland, and more — I work in theater, film, and performance. Over the past few years, I’ve swapped my mostly-black uniform for a work outfit palette that includes neutrals like navy, burgundy, red, cream, and camel. Whether I’m on the tube or on a flight, I love a big hoodie under a smart coat or blazer. It goes well with suit pants, jeans, or a mini skirt and a pair of statement boots. London is really about showing your style without overtly designer items like famed handbags or anything with logos, so a versatile staple like a neutral sweatshirt will go with anything in your closet.

Tall puffer boots

These high-shine, daring beauties are comfortable enough to wear plodding about town — and they’ll dress up any outfit with great drama. I like to remain on the understated side with my looks, particularly as an often solo traveling female. Sometimes though, a stunning showstopper of a shoe comes along and you have to roll with it. The leg warmer is removable, though, so you can also rock the boot without the added pizzazz. And, the water-repellant exterior is great for wet conditions.

A reversible bucket hat

This fluffy bucket hat effectively ramps up any outfit in a fun, unique way. It’s dual-sided so you can wear the black or white option depending on your look. Plus, the teddy fleece will keep you warm and toasty while exploring a new place.

Gutsy red sunglasses

I love to pair hooded sweatshirts or coats with sunglasses so I’m prepared for London’s moody weather, whether it’s rain or sudden bursts of sun. I love the bold shade of these red sunglasses and the trendy shape of the mod style.

A versatile wallet

I’ve never understood the appeal of shiny, fancy wallets that dazzle and excite potential thieves. I routinely keep a small thin wallet like this one with the essentials and empty it weekly at home. I like the extra security function of the simple design, plus the RFID-blocking technology. It also has plenty of zips and compartments to hold everything you need inside.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.