Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe.

Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe.

      (Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

      Without sounding like a character pulled from a Dickens novel, this biting winter is not for the weak-hearted. The trees stand leafless, the skies are continually overcast, and the temperatures are so cold that they might make you question your sanity. While we have the comforts of a warm pub fire and our electric blankets cranked to their highest, it’s still not sufficient to endure the endless cold days ahead. Enter: the finest thermal layers. Those accustomed to the biting winds and freezing temperatures will likely have a strong collection of thermal layers to carry them through the season, as they understand that these essential base garments truly make the difference between staying warm while looking stylish. For those unfamiliar, thermal layers are a specialized category of clothing crafted to trap and retain body heat, allowing you to stay warm and cozy without the need for bulky coats, itchy knits, or fleece-lined leggings that can weigh you down.

      Natural fibers like wool or cashmere offer this quality naturally, but due to textile advancements, many brands like Uniqlo, Calzedonia, and Intimissimi are ensuring their materials provide a second-skin feel that absorbs and holds the warmth you generate. (You didn’t think pink-haired Addison Rae was casually wandering the black sand beaches of Iceland in Intimissimi’s dune-colored boat neck top without being bundled up in a top thermal layer, did you?) Speaking with Alexa Dagmar and Linda Juhola, the co-founders of Almada Label, a Finnish minimalist luxury brand known for its well-curated and foundational fashion approach, they explain the significance of thermal layers as a crucial investment for those facing frigid climates. “Having high-quality basics that you can easily throw on in the morning is vital,” they say. “With the right accessories, these fundamental pieces like turtlenecks, jumpers, and T-shirts can be dressed up or down, making them highly versatile and simple to wear.”

      (Image credit: Almada Label.) When seeking the best thermal basics, they suggest “consistently leaning towards materials that are easy to maintain and truly durable,” such as knitwear. “An ideal winter layer should keep you warm without causing overheating, which is why I favor pairing a very thin, chic turtleneck with a thicker knit,” they add. “You can layer a lightweight turtleneck underneath for warmth, and if you get too hot, simply remove the bulkier top while still looking polished,” they note. “When we created our [version], we aimed for it to be seamless and sophisticated, allowing it to be dressed up or down and avoiding the performance wear look often associated with very thin knits.” That last point resonates with me, particularly as someone who grew up in Sydney and now lives in London. Thermal layers can sometimes give the impression that you’re dressing for a day at the ski resort. (Think: Gwyneth Paltrow at Deer Valley Resort circa 2016.) However, I often find the best thermal layers to be those that can adapt to both mountainous settings and urban environments.

      By swapping ski jackets for funnel-necks and alpine trousers for jeans, the best thermal layers are basic enough to fit any occasion while ensuring you stay cozy wherever you go. Just remember to choose more relaxed cuts to accommodate these initial layers, and you’ll be all set. So, whether you've scheduled a trip to Saint Moritz or are simply in search of pieces to carry you through a day out in London, discover the best thermal layers, as tested and reviewed by me, below.

      Shop the Best Thermal Layers for Winter:

      Intimissimi

      Boat Neck Modal Cashmere Ultralight Jumper

      Style Notes: Drawing inspiration from the '90s, this delicate boat neck highlights a minimalist shape with luxurious fabrics and a delightful peacock blue that complements numerous wardrobe essentials, including corduroy jeans and ruched loafers. Material: 85% Modal, 9% Cashmere, 6% Elastane. Sizes: S - XL. Colors: Available in nearly 20 shades.

      Intimissimi

      Modal Cashmere Ultralight High-Neck Top

      Style Notes: Alexa Chung said it first—it's roll-neck season. This piece gathers nicely around your collar and is made of a sheer fabric that adds a touch of color to any outfit without appearing as a large saturated block. (It's like a total Monet.) Material: 85% Modal, 9% Cashmere, 6% Elastane. Sizes: S - L. Colors: 11, including toffee brown, heather marle, and red.

      Calzedonia

      Sheer Effect Thermal Tights

      Style Notes: Tights are a winter essential, and while some fleeced variations can feel like you're wearing trousers, this style is lightweight yet provides thermal regulation. Material: 85% Polyamide, 15% Elastane. Sizes: XS - L. Colors: 3, including mocha

Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe. Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe.

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Every stylish dresser understands that layering is the key to a fashionable winter capsule wardrobe.

It's that time of year.