6 Easy Outfits to Wear to Work When It's Freezing Outside

Trousers Made From Warm Materials

While we’re still here for a leather leggings moment, for an appropriate ensemble for casual and formal offices alike, style therapist Christina Stein says leather trousers are the play. “Leather trousers can keep you warm, have versatility outside of the office, and be comfortable,” she tells InStyle. “If you can find a pair in this season's hottest color, red, then, double win!”

Laidback Denim

Good news: Denim doesn’t have to be out-of-office exclusive. According to celebrity stylist Philippe Uter, relaxed denim is versatile and a staple for cool weather seasons. For example, in late autumn and early winter, when the weather forecast is unpredictable at best, Uter recommends pairing your favorite with a tank top (and any kind of jacket, depending on your job), “drawing inspiration from the Bottega Veneta runways.” For a more elevated look, Uter says he’d team them “with a button-down shirt and a trench coat, mirroring last Gucci trends,” noting that the jeans will “effortlessly infuse a relaxed vibe into your tailored wardrobe staples, allowing you to strike a harmonious balance.”

An Oversized Structured Suit

As far as Tan France, lead stylist for Express, is concerned, a structured suit, “with an emphasis on monochromatic and tonal trends” is the moment. “We saw it at the likes of Versace, Prada, Bottega, and the Row,” France tells InStyle. “Suiting is a classic, but this oversized structure is a way of injecting a little cool into your work looks.” Not to mention, oversized means roomy, and the roomier the suit, the more space to fill with warm layers on those especially cold days. France goes on to note that Express has “great suit pieces in various neutrals and bold colorways alike to help you achieve a signature style,” so you might want to add the retailer to your browsing list.

Creative Layering

We know what you’re thinking: Layering for winter? Groundbreaking (eye roll). But before you keep scrolling, Stitch Fix stylist Alex Rivera makes a case for why layering is going to look and feel a little different this season. “As my clients continue to prioritize functional dressing, the "3 Layer Rule" is the perfect formula for combating unpredictable weather, especially during a work commute in the winter,” Rivera tells InStyle.

Here’s how it works: You’re going to choose three layers, each serving a specific purpose — think a soft, body-skimming turtleneck, a chunky cardigan, and a polished knee-length wool coat — ensuring you have a base, mid, and outer layer. This will ensure you'll stay warm, no matter if you’re in the office or on your way in, and despite cold temperatures.

Warm Sweater Dresses and Cozy Cardigans

Sweaters and cardigans are regarded as mutually exclusive, but Stein has found a way to wear both of these warming pieces for a winter work outfit that’s sure to keep you nice and toasty. “Sweater dresses and oversized cardigans are also a way to stay professional and warm,” Stein says of the brilliant combination. “Stick to neutrals with the dress, but with the cardigan, have some fun with texture and pattern, mohair, or an alpaca/wool combination with an oversized check or houndstooth that can add to any neutral base. Finish it off with studded ballet flats for a pop of edge.”

Outerwear That Goes With Everything

Do not underestimate the power of a high-quality, super-warm outerwear option. Rivera says that "24/7 dressing" is to look great while prioritizing the comfort we all desire, and part of mastering the look is to invest in excellent, versatile outerwear. “This kind of well-rounded wardrobe effortlessly transitions from workdays to weekends or from meetings to holiday parties,” Rivera says. “To achieve this, I suggest investing in a neutral wrap coat and a black leather blazer to style underneath. Pair your layers with wide-leg pants and chunky loafers for a touch of prep to your work look!”