Everyone has days when the thought of assembling a fresh look feels like too much effort—and on such days, it’s vital to have a fail-safe formula that can swoop in and come to the rescue. Personally, this ‘break glass for emergency’ outfit changes from season to season. Summer is for seersucker midi dresses and slide-on sandals, while during winter I spend most of the time in a jeans-and-jumper combination.
Not only do I love how this easy yet stylish pairing looks, it also has practical appeal. I’m cold by nature, so if I don’t wear knitwear in some form at this time of year I’ll be a nuisance to everyone around me, constantly lamenting my failure to pack on sufficient layers. And jeans? Well, they go with everything. So when you can’t quite decide on an winter colour palette, denim is a safe bet to throw into the mix.
All-in-all, this is a hassle-free solution to everyday dressing, and it’s fairly intuitive—but it’s only a matter of time before you inevitably start feeling a little bored with your well-worn jeans and jumpers. Thankfully, there’s a variety of nuanced ways to style these two staples together and we’ve rounded up some of the best examples. Keep scrolling for easy winter outfit inspiration.
Style Notes: A little bit preppy, but undeniably cool, this unfussy formula is perfect for those busy afternoons when you want to look a little bit polished.
I can see this becoming my reach-for-everyday jumper.
Perfect for layering under jumpers.
Such a versatile coat style.
Straight-leg jeans are here to stay.
Suede ballet flats you can actually expose to the winter elements.
Style Notes: Red is the colour of the season, and letting it pop against black pieces is a great way to wear it with confidence.
A deliciously rich colour.
These jeans have a great shape and a soft feel, making them the ideal pair.
A relaxed silhouette gives plenty of space for knitwear underneath.
Sambas are the go-to trainers for so many influencers.
Style Notes: Jessica makes the case for winter whites, and for doubling up on the knitwear.
The perfect crop.
White jeans in the cold months is a really chic look.
This slouchy shape is ideal for wrapping over your shoulders.
The chunky sole makes them perfect for winter days.
Style Notes: Wide-leg jeans are the top trending jean this year, and Coco shows how to style them like a pro.
Deliciously cosy for cold days.
Nothing beats a true blue pair of jeans.
This is the coat on every fashion lover’s wish list.
Style Notes: This is a failsafe look, and I love how Nnenna layers hers over a white shirt.
You can’t go wrong with & Other Stories when you’re looking for classic pieces with a contemporary twist.
These white button-down shirts are a truly versatile investment piece.
Wide-leg jeans are the style of the season, and these are such a great option.
Style Notes: When I don’t know what to wear, this is the combo I reach for. Polished, smart but still comfy and warm, you can’t go wrong with a black turtleneck and jeans.
A black cashmere turtleneck jumper is so luxe.
I’ll always love a true black jean.
The silhouette of this trench coat is so good.
Knee-highs may be trending, but a classic Chelsea boot is always a good idea.
Style Notes: Such an easy everyday look that ticks both the comfort and style boxes. This will definitely be one of my winter go-tos.
A cosy, oversized jumper is a winter essential.
These jeans have a distinctively vintage look.
The practical shoe that’s been given the fashion world’s official seal of approval—thank goodness.
Next Up: 6 Cool Winter Outfits That Will Earn You So Many Compliments
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.