Not Jeans, Not Sweaters: 7 Nonbasic Winter Items You Probably Don't Own But Should

Everyone's winter wardrobes probably already include the basics. Think a chunky sweater, a pair of straight-leg jeans, and some flat boots with enough traction to ward against slippery sidewalks and snow-covered driveways. Pieces like these are considered essential for cold weather for a reason, but what about those winter fashion items that you don't own (yet), the ones that are anti-trend but will make your outfits stand out instead of fit in when the temps drop below 50ºF? If you want a seasonal rotation that's practical and interesting, you'll want to invest in the nonbasic winter wardrobe essentials ahead. They're guaranteed to complement your existing sweaters, jeans, and footwear, enhancing them to the point of peak chilly-weather fashion.

A pair of corduroy pants, for example, will make your simple turtlenecks appear more Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy than frumpy, and a suede jacket has the same warming effect as something sportier but also has a sleek, elevated look that reads expensive instead of post-workout. These aren't trendy items per se. Rather, they're classics that feel hyperrelevant in 2026, bringing your winter wardrobe into the new year. Plus, because they are timeless instead of just passing fads, you can keep them in your closet for decades to come without them ever going out.

Keep scrolling to shop the nonbasic winter wardrobe essentials you need to start the year off right.

1. Corduroy Pants

ZARA

Flare Corduroy Pants

A great pair of pants at a great price.

KALLMEYER

Cotton-Corduroy Wide-Leg Pants

COS

Corduroy Straight-Leg Pants

2. High-Vamp Pumps

There's a reason why these keep selling out. The eel print is just too unique.

COS

Square-Toe Leather Heeled Shoes

Pair these with cream trousers.

Phoebe Philo

Club Slipper

I'll forever have these on my wish list.

3. Fitted Turtleneck

Lilysilk

Seamless Silk-Cashmere Blend Turtleneck Sweater

A fitted turtleneck is so much chicer than a long-sleeve T-shirt.

Soft, affordable, and elevated.

Banana Republic

Luxe Wool-Blend Turtleneck T-Shirt

The layering possibilities are endless.

4. Suede Jacket

Sofia Richie Grainge can't stop wearing this anorak with vintage jeans.

ZARA

100% Volume Suede Leather Jacket

J.Crew Collection

Cropped Flight Jacket in Suede

I can confirm that this jacket is perfect. Trust me—it's in my closet.

5. Tan Boots

ZARA

Split Leather Stiletto Heel Ankle Boots

Black boots wish they were this cool.

Reformation

Claudette Knee Boot

Dreaming of these '70s-esque knee-high boots.

MANGO

Suede Leather Ankle Boots

These will go great with cords, jeans, trousers, and more.

6. Leather Pencil Skirt

SEA

Gwen Belted Paneled Textured-Leather Midi Skirt

This skirt is giving Prada vibes at a more approachable price.

Massimo Dutti

Short Leather Mock Croc Skirt

The croc print and rich brown only add to this leather skirt's draw.

Donna Karan

Seam Faux Leather Pencil Skirt

Pair this skirt with knee-high stiletto boots and a V-neck top à la Hailey Bieber.

7. Extra-Long Coat

Helsa

Bold Shoulder Long Coat

MANGO

Wool-Blend Funnel-Neck Coat

I love the funnel neck on this one.

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Wardrobe Essentials