Outfit Essentials

The Ultimate Winter Accessories Guide: Scarves, Gloves, and Hats You’ll Love

(Image credit: @dieynatina)

Winter Accessories Guide: Stay Warm & Stylish All Season Long

Winter is synonymous with cozy knitwear and chic outerwear, but let’s not forget the unsung heroes of the season—accessories. These small yet mighty additions do more than keep you warm; they’re your chance to infuse personality into an otherwise simple winter outfit.

Think about it: while your coat dominates your look, it’s usually a classic, versatile piece to match everything in your wardrobe. But accessories? That’s where you can experiment, play with colours, and embrace textures. Whether you’re strolling the streets of Paris or cozying up in your local café, the right winter accessories will keep you warm and effortlessly chic.

So, what accessories should you prioritize this winter? Let’s dive in.

Scarves: Your Winter Style Staple

Scarves are a winter must-have. Trust me, I get it—they can feel bulky when juggling your coat, bag, and all the layers. But skipping a scarf? Not an option. A scarf not only shields your neck from biting winds but also adds personality to neutral outerwear.

Here’s how to pick the perfect scarf:

  • Fabric: For warmth, go for chunky knits in wool or cashmere. If you’re looking for elegance, a silk scarf tucked neatly inside your coat adds a refined touch.

  • Styles: Oversized blanket scarves offer maximum coziness, while classic fringed options are versatile and timeless. For something trendy yet chic, try skinny scarves for layering.

  • Colors & Prints: Deep reds, soft pink, emerald greens, or vibrant blues add a pop of color to neutral coats. If you prefer classic vibes, opt for neutral shades like beige, camel, or charcoal. Patterns like plaid, houndstooth, or checks are a Parisian favorite.

Storage & Maintenance Tips

  • Fold or Roll: Gently fold or roll scarves to avoid stretching. Store them in a drawer with dividers for easy access.

  • Wash Carefully: Hand wash wool or cashmere scarves with a mild detergent and air dry flat. For silk scarves, stick to dry cleaning.

  • De-Pill Regularly: Use a fabric shaver to remove pilling for a polished look.

Gloves: Function Meets Fashion

Cold hands are the worst—freezing fingers make everything harder, from holding your bag to adjusting your scarf. Enter gloves: a functional necessity that also elevates your outfit.

  • Everyday Elegance: Leather gloves with wool linings are perfect for office days or polished outings.

  • Casual Comfort: Wool or knit gloves are cozy and ideal for running errands or casual weekends.

  • Sophisticated Drama: For evening events, opt for long gloves or embellished styles for a touch of glamour.

Storage & Maintenance Tips

  • Pair Up: Store gloves in pairs using fabric pouches or zippered compartments.

  • Shape Retention: Use tissue paper or glove forms for leather styles to keep them looking sharp.

  • Clean Regularly: Spot-clean leather with a damp cloth and condition occasionally. Wash knit gloves gently with a mild detergent.

Socks & Tights: The Foundation of Winter Warmth and Style

Often overlooked, socks and tights are essential winter accessories that combine practicality with style. These little details can bring warmth to your outfit while subtly enhancing your overall look.

Socks: Warmth with a Style Twist

When it comes to socks, think beyond basic black. The right pair can add a playful, stylish touch to your outfit, even if they’re only visible when you sit down or as a peek-a-boo detail under wide-leg jeans or boots.

  • Fabric First: Opt for wool or cashmere socks for ultimate warmth and comfort. These materials are soft, insulating, and perfect for braving cold days.

  • Colors: Stick to neutral shades like beige, grey, or black for a versatile foundation. Feeling bold? Choose deep burgundy, vibrant red, or even trendy jewel tones like emerald green for a fun pop of colour.

  • Length Matters: Ankle-length socks are great for loafers or sneakers, while knee-high socks pair beautifully with tall boots for added warmth and a touch of charm.

  • Playful Patterns: Consider socks with subtle prints—think polka dots, stripes, or even festive winter patterns for a whimsical touch.

Style Tip: Pair burgundy with loafers and straight-leg jeans for a peek-a-boo effect that adds personality to your look. Knee-high socks under a midi skirt or tucked into boots create a cozy yet polished vibe.

Tights: From Classic to Statement-Making

Tights are the unsung heroes of winter fashion, providing a foundation for your skirts and dresses while keeping you warm and stylish. Whether you prefer timeless classics or bold statements, tights are a versatile addition to your winter wardrobe.

  • Classic Black: Sheer or opaque black tights are a no-fail option for any outfit. They’re sophisticated, elongate your legs, and complement nearly everything in your closet.

  • Textured Appeal: Add interest to your look with textured tights like cable-knit, ribbed, or polka-dot styles. These work beautifully with oversized sweaters and boots for a cozy-chic winter aesthetic.

  • Seasonal Colors: Burgundy, navy, or even deep forest green tights can add a trendy, seasonal touch. Want to try something bold? White tights are a fresh, coquette-inspired look that’s trending this winter.

  • Embellished Options: For special occasions, try tights with glitter, studs, or lace detailing. They’re perfect for elevating a simple dress and adding a glamorous edge to your ensemble.

Style Tip: Pair sheer black tights with heeled ankle boots and a structured coat for a polished office look. For a more playful approach, combine textured or printed tights with a chunky knit sweater dress and knee-high boots.

Storage & Maintenance Tips

  • Socks:

    • Avoid balling them up—roll them neatly to maintain elasticity.

    • Separate wool socks from cotton ones to prevent snags.

    • Hand wash wool socks and air dry to avoid shrinkage.

  • Tights:

    • Roll tights and store them in fabric pouches to avoid snags.

    • Hand wash delicate tights with lukewarm water and air dry.

    • Use clear nail polish to stop small runs from spreading.

Hats: Cozy & Chic

No winter wardrobe is complete without a few hats to keep you warm and stylish. Here’s how to choose:

  • Beanies: Wool or knit beanies are perfect for casual days. They’re cozy, cute, and cover your ears—a win-win! Pair it with a matching scarf for a cohesive look.

  • Berets: The ultimate Parisian touch. Pair a beret with tailored coats for an elevated look.

  • Wide-Brim Hats: Not the warmest option, but definitely the most stylish. Perfect for sunny yet cold winter days, paired with knee-high boots and a statement coat.

Storage & Maintenance Tips

  • Shape Care: Use hat stands or sturdy boxes to maintain the shape of structured hats like berets or wide-brim styles.

  • Cleaning: Spot clean wool hats with a damp cloth and use fabric brushes to remove dust.

Winter Accessories Styling Inspiration

Here are five effortless outfit ideas to style your winter accessories:

  1. City Chic: A dark brown coat with a chunky knit scarf, leather gloves, and heeled ankle boots.

  2. Casual Cool: An oversized wool coat with a blanket scarf, and shearling-lined gloves

  3. Parisian Polished: A belted coat, a checked scarf, and a beret for that quintessential French vibe.

  4. Cozy Weekend: A puffer jacket paired with a matching knit beanie and scarf, and wool socks peeking out of Uggs for a stroll in the park.

  5. Evening Glamour: A fitted coat with embellished tights and long gloves for dramatic flair.

Winter accessories are more than just functional—they’re the finishing touches that transform your outfit from simple to stunning. Whether you prefer playful textures, bold colors, or timeless classics, accessories allow you to express your personality without compromising on warmth.

Scroll below to shop my curated picks for scarves, gloves, and beanies that will keep you cozy and chic all season long and for some more styles inspo !

The Selection

Style Inspo

City Chic

Scarf and gloves from Arket

Casual Cool

Scarf from Acne Studio and gloves from Arket

Parisian Polished

Beret from Maison Margiela via Farfetch and scarf from Cos

Cosy Weekend

Matching soft pink beanie and scarf from Aritzia

Evening Glamour

Embellished tights from Calzedonia and long gloves from Cos

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