Deciding what to wear in January can be a tricky one. It’s still freezing so you need to stay warm and cosy, but it’s also a fresh start. We’ve all likely made a resolution of some kind and have our eyes firmly fixed on moving forward, so it’s understandable if stepping back into 2023’s wardrobe feels a little, well, stale.
Luckily, there’s a solution—and it’s not throwing everything away! Naturally, a little wardrobe detox or organisation is a great idea at this time of year, but budgets are also tight post-Christmas. So before you swear off certain items, consider the pieces you may be able to use as a gateway to the new season and make use of that capsule wardrobe we’re always raving about and bring out some of your timeless classics that you know you can rely on, but perhaps think about styling the up in a slightly different way.
We’re talking teasers of a fresh colour palette, lots of layers, some chic suiting, and plenty of stripes. The key looks for the coming season have already made themselves known, so here’s your guide to easing them into your wardrobe while staying warm.
Keep scrolling for all the street style inspiration you need to inspire your January wardrobe, whatever you have planned for the month ahead.
Style Notes: Colourful trainers were a 2023 hit, and they’re sticking around for 2024. The shade to wear this year? It’s all about in-your-face yellow pairs that’ll overhaul any outfit you pair them with.
Move over red, yellow kicks are key for 2023.
Style Notes: Even the most die-hard of minimalists can throw a style curveball in the form of a bright scarf. Don’t you think this makes Lucy’s pared-back outfit look super interesting?
Cos’ mohair-blend scarves are as cosy as it gets.
Style Notes: Not only should you refrain from packing any way “party pieces,” but we recommend wearing them together to pack an outfit punch. Make like Karina and add your favourite party bag to a skirt and jumper duo.
You’ll find any excuse to wear the Alaïa heart bag.
Style Notes: Tucking your trouser hems into your boots has definitely become a thing again. Try it out and it’ll give your coat and boots combo a fresh new feel.
So very chic.
Style Notes: Unlock a whole new playful side to your style by tying a statement jumper over your outfit. Lena goes one step further and matches her lipstick to her argyle knit—simple, yet so effective.
Orange and tan are a dream team.
Style Notes: If you’re anything like us, you’ll have a vast array of fancy collars in your collection. Show them off and watch them update any old coat and trousers in an instant.
This would look so cute layered under a knitted vest, too.
Style Notes: The most unexpected trend of the season, knee-high tights are the accessory du jour. Wear them with a mini dress or skirt and add loafers to get the preppy vibe.
This also comes in black.
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to breathe new life into your existing wares in layering them in unexpected ways. Renia gives her classic tailored suit a whole new look by flashing a bright red polo neck underneath. And yes, red is sticking around for 2024.
Cashmere is always a winner for winter.
Style Notes: Chances are, you’ll spend 98% of your winter in knitwear. But instead of chucking on the same striped jumper (you know the one) mix it up by choosing interesting necklines. Off the shoulder styles are back, so you can start here.
Your classic striped button-down, but with a twist.
Style Notes: From Gucci’s logo tights to lace or colour block styles, hosiery is officially back on the fashion agenda. What’s more, a standout pair will make all your skirts and dresses feel like new.
Imagine these tucked into tan knee-high boots.
Style Notes: One of the quickest ways to fall into wardrobe humdrum is to choose similarly-shaped pieces over and over again. Raid your cupboards, pull out the most oversized thing you own—be it a pair of flared trousers or a puff-sleeve dress—and wear it with pride.
You may want the matching top, too.
Style Notes: After being given the sartorial silent treatment for far too long, the maxi skirt has made a massive comeback. This time round, it’s all about the structured column style that works so well with wardrobe basics.
Of course COS has already jumped on the trend.
Style Notes: Raid your wardrobe and drawers and pull out anything that’s the same colour. Be it red, yellow or lilac, and wear the lot at once to make your outfit look instantly pulled together. It’ll give the impression of serious outfit planning, when in reality, it’s the ultimate lazy-girl dressing hack.
You can wear lilac no matter the season.
Style Notes: When it’s really chilly, chances are you’ll want to stay in your coat for as long as possible when you go anywhere. As such, make it a fun one that’ll do all the hard work for you and save you even having to think about what’s underneath.
Everyone will ask where you got this beauty from.
Style Notes: This is one of our favourite styling tricks; wear your cardigans as a top instead of a cover-up, and honestly, it makes such a difference to your vibe. We’re always complimented on our outfit when we make this simple tweak.
An everyday essential.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Next Up: The 2024 Trends That Really Matter