Whether you’re looking for the ideal gift or the perfect winter wardrobe update, fashion writer Alexandra Fullerton explores the essential pieces from Knightsbridge to kick off the festive season
Words: Alexandra Fullerton
For fashion lovers, winter is the ultimate season. Colder days offer multiple opportunities to wear more and revel in luxurious layers and tactile fabrics. As well as daytime dressing, the festive season also invites after-dark extravagance and opulence – a style that everyone in the family can embrace. So, whether you’re looking to dress to impress throughout the festive season or want to know the key pieces to wrap up for a loved one this Christmas, Knightsbridge is the place to head for to tick everyone off your list.
The coat
If it’s time to add a few new judicious purchases to your winter wardrobe, we recommend you begin with the biggest buy – the coat. Representative of your signature style for the entire season, as well as being a joy to wear, your coat needs to be practical too. Shearling and faux-fur coats remain a fashion favourite on the catwalk for women and they have the bonus of keeping you warm. Cruelty-free faux-fur label Jakke has the snuggliest brightly coloured coats in Harvey Nichols, while Burberry’s wool blend pea coat will become a timeless staple for men.
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The colour pop
What lies beneath? With the addition of a layer of sleek warmth from a Wolford roll-neck jumper and tights (you’ll find them in Harrods),you can make even the lightest dresses work in winter. Brighten a grey winter day with a dash of dopamine dressing in the form of Zara’s scarlet longline sweater dress. For men, a shocking-pink merino crew neck from Reiss will provide that welcome pop of colour.
The sustainable cashmere
Winter-wear also tends to allow consumers to shop more sustainably. Thicker knits, heavier materials and more sturdily constructed footwear are all designed to combat the cold, but have the added benefit of longevity. A cashmere jumper, such as this leopard-print version from The Kooples, could become a favourite that the woman in your life will turn to year after year, if it’s stored with care, attention and plenty of moth repellent. The ideal winter gift that keeps on giving is a cashmere scarf and this one in light green from Boss in Knightsbridge is a chic and practical addition to any man’s winter ensemble.
The boots
A fail-safe outfit for women is AllSaints’ cult leather-look leggings teamed with a cosy hoodie (perhaps JW Anderson’s wool logo hoodie, from Harrods) and chunky boots. Chelsea boots and hiking styles are perma-trends, but for winter 2023, the cowboy boot has become the fashion pack’s favourite. Office’s Albuquerque version are an instant hit. For men, Bally’s combat Vatiz boots will provide a street-smart option worn with Polo Ralph Lauren’s sweatpants, both from Harrods, and a logo hoodie from Balenciaga.
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The future trendsetters
For any small people in your life, following the principles of a seasonal capsule wardrobe will install excellent shopping habits in years ahead. A warm coat is a non-negotiable essential and Trotters, at Harrods, have traditional versions, while at Bonpoint, the Tinoa sweater provides an adorable – and cosy – extra layer. For sportier kids, Marc Jacobs’ Chapka hat, from Harrods, is a cosy topper and Mini Rodini’s sweatpants, from Harvey Nichols, will become a regular wear. Complete their winter essentials with Zara’s rubber-soled faux-shearling boots, which will keep their toes warm whether you’re in town or up a mountain.
