Short answer: The winter commute problem is that the temperature changes three times before you sit down. The fix is to treat the outer layer as removable: build a complete indoor outfit first, then add a coat and one accessory you can take off. A fine knit, wide-leg trousers and a blazer make a finished office outfit; a wool coat and a scarf on top handle the journey, and both come off at the desk.
What is the best winter work outfit formula?
Short answer: Three pieces that work indoors plus two that come off. Indoors: a fine knit or shirt, tailored trousers, and a blazer or structured jacket. Outdoors: a wool coat and a scarf. The indoor outfit must be complete on its own, because that is what you will be wearing from nine to five.
| Conditions | Indoor outfit | Add for the commute |
|---|---|---|
| Mild, dry | Knit plus trousers, blazer at the desk | A quilted jacket you can fold into a bag |
| Cold, dry | Fine knit plus tailored trousers | A wool coat and a scarf |
| Cold and wet | Dark trousers, not a light tone | A hooded or water-resistant outer layer |
| Very cold | Knit plus trousers plus a vest as a mid layer | A wool or puffer coat with a high collar |
How do I stop overheating once I am indoors?
Short answer: Wear the warmest layer as the removable one. If the coat and the scarf are doing the work, the outfit underneath can be light enough for an office. People who overheat indoors are usually wearing their mid layer as part of the outfit rather than as something they can take off.
What colours work for a winter work wardrobe?
Short answer: Charcoal, navy, camel and chocolate brown. They layer into each other, they hide winter grime better than light tones, and four colours are enough to cover every working day of the week without repeating an outfit.
What should I keep at my desk?
Short answer: A blazer or structured jacket, a light knit, and a pair of shoes you can change into. Those three turn a commuting outfit into an office outfit in under a minute, and they save you from wearing your coat indoors all day.
How warm should a winter work outfit be?
Short answer: Warm enough for the coldest ten minutes of the journey, and no warmer. That usually means the coat carries the warmth and the outfit underneath is a normal autumn outfit – which is also what keeps you comfortable at your desk.
Shop our winter workwear range.