10 Essential Winter 2026 Clothing Items to Treat Yourself to This December

      Welcome to "10 Things to Buy," a monthly shopping guide designed to help you make smarter purchases by highlighting 10 essential items to add to your cart this month if your wardrobe needs a refresh. As a Who What Wear editor for over 11 years, I have dedicated countless hours to advising shoppers on seasonal choices, so you’re in capable hands. Whether your shopping needs are for cold climate, warm weather, vacations, or weddings, I'm here to provide the most relevant suggestions for the season. Don’t forget to check back at the beginning of each month for more recommendations.

      We’ve officially made it to the end of 2025. Throughout this series, I’ve suggested 120 items to buy this year (including this month’s picks), and I must say that December has become one of my favorite editions of "10 Things to Buy." After a week of holiday gift shopping, it’s time to take a moment to focus on your own winter wardrobe, and I’m here to assist you with that task. This month emphasizes warmth and festive attire, and the 10 wardrobe essentials I suggest prioritizing this December will remain relevant even after the holidays. You can be certain that your investment will be worthwhile. So, keep scrolling to find the best items to purchase this month.

      **Fair Isle Sweater**

      Happy après-ski season to everyone celebrating. Even if you don’t have a trip to a chalet planned, you can still embrace this winter’s coziest and most beautiful trend.

      - **Reformation**: Fabian Crew Sweater

      - **DÔEN**: Clarke Fair Isle Wool-Blend Cardigan

      - **J.Crew**: Fair Isle Cardigan in Vintage Wool

      **Triangle Scarf**

      Triangle scarves are becoming increasingly popular. They serve as a stylish accessory for your coat while keeping you warm all season long.

      - **Aritzia**: Cashmere Triangle Scarf

      - **Favorite Daughter**: Fuzzy Triangle Scarf

      - **Free People**: Essential Triangle Scarf

      **Corduroy Pants**

      When jeans aren't warm enough and sweatpants lack polish, corduroy pants are the perfect solution. These days, they come in a range of styles, from balloon to bootcut.

      - **Madewell**: The Longline Straight Pant in Corduroy

      - **Levi's**: Baggy Dad Corduroy Pants

      - **THE ROW**: Carlyl Cotton-Corduroy Straight-Leg Pants

      **Wool Bucket Hat**

      Wool bucket hats have taken over the beanie trend. Make sure to grab one before they’re all gone.

      - **Madewell**: Felted Wool Bucket Hat

      - **ZARA**: Plain Wool Blend Hat

      - **COS**: Ribbed Wool-Blend Bucket Hat

      **Calf-Hair Shoes**

      For those looking to add a touch of luxury to their winter wardrobe, calf-hair shoes are a simple way to enhance your ensembles. The texture adds an interesting twist that plain leather can’t provide.

      - **BLACK SUEDE STUDIO**: Arie Ponyhair Slippers

      - **Madewell**: The Emilie Slingback Pumps

      **Brown Wool Coat**

      A brown wool coat has become just as necessary as a black one, and the good news is that it pairs wonderfully with the black items in your wardrobe, similar to what fashion insiders are doing.

      - **MANGO**: Picarol Double Breasted Wool Blend Coat

      - **ZW Collection**: Wool Blend Coat With Faux Fur Collar

      - **Alex Mill**: Sophia Wool Blend Long Coat

      **Velvet Dress**

      The holiday season is the ideal time to invest in a new velvet dress, and there’s no need to hide it away after January 1. Feel free to wear it throughout the winter months.

      - **Reformation**: Angele Velvet Dress

      **Elevated Puffer**

      As demonstrated recently by Elsa Hosk in her Polo Ralph Lauren version, upgraded puffers are the ultimate choice this season.

      - **Polo Ralph Lauren**: Mid-Weight Down Puffer Jacket

      - **Damson Madder**: Pearl Puffer Jacket

      **Special Earrings**

      During this season of heavy knitwear and wool, it can be challenging to find ways to elevate your outfits. A standout pair of earrings is my favorite way to add that extra flair, making them visible among winter layers for festive gatherings.

      - **LiÉ Studio**: The Ruby Earrings

      - **COMPLETEDWORKS**: Rhodium-Plated Recycled Silver Pearl and Crystal Earrings

      - **Heaven Mayhem**: Ribbon Earrings

      **Brown Suede Boots**

      If you already have enough black boots, consider investing in a pair of brown suede ones. I may sound repetitive, but they are sure to enhance your outfits with a touch of richness and elegance.

      - **Reformation**