Happy March everyone! Hopefully we will get some Spring weather soon. I was able to escape the harsh winter for a bit by going to Mexico in January and Florida a few weeks ago. It was so nice to trade my sweaters and boots for tank tops and flip flops!

Now that I’m back in Chicago, I’m definitely looking forward to warmer days. Unfortunately, I know I will still be wearing my winter clothes until late April. We don’t really have a true Spring here. It’s cold from November until late April (or even mid-May sometimes) and then all of sudden it’s warm. We basically go from Winter to Summer overnight!

Some of you might be welcoming Spring soon. So, I’ve put together my winter capsule wardrobe to help you start decluttering your closet by keeping only your core winter pieces until you transition into the next season. These are the pieces I’ve been wearing on repeat all winter. Let’s dive in!

1) Black Jeans

Having a pair of black jeans in your winter wardrobe is a must, in my opinion. They are definitely my go-to pants during the cold season. I personally love cropped slim straight-cut jeans that hit right around the ankle bone. They are the perfect length to show off your favorite shoes, whether it’s Chelsea boots or loafers.

The pair I wear most is from J.Crew Factory. Their Essential Straight Jeans in All-Day Stretch offer a great fit without breaking the bank. I also own them in the medium indigo wash.

2) Black Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots are my go-to shoes in the winter. They’re stylish, comfortable and perfect for walking around all day. I prefer mine with a small heel. They instantly elevate any outfit and pair well with straight cropped jeans.

Everyone should have a pair of black Chelsea boots in their winter wardrobe. Period. They’re such a timeless, elegant style to own. I love my Bianca Chelsea boots made of real leather from Beckett Simonon. If you’re looking to buy a similar pair you can use my code LAFRENCH15 for 15% off.

As I’ve said before, choose quality over quantity, because well-made pieces will last you a long time and ultimately save you money in the long run.

3) Charcoal Grey Crew Neck Wool Sweater

Speaking of quality, I pay close attention to the fabrics of the clothes I buy. I favor natural materials such as cotton, 100% wool and cashmere.

A 100% wool crew neck sweater is definitely a winter essential in my wardrobe. The one I own is a men’s lambswool sweater from Uniqlo that I bought in Canada last fall. Unfortunately, it’s currently out of stock. Here’s another wool crew neck option I like from Massimo Dutti— one I would purchase if I didn’t already have the Uniqlo version. I personally prefer to wear this style slightly oversized and usually size up for a more relaxed fit.

4) Undershirt Cotton Turtleneck

A cotton turtleneck is another core piece to have in your closet this season. I wear mine under my crew neck sweaters when it’s freezing outside. The winter in Chicago is very long, so turtleneck undershirts are my best friends! The organic cotton turtlenecks from Quince are great. I stick to neutral tones like grey, white and black.

5) Blazer Jacket

A blazer instantly elevates your sweater game. It adds a polished touch without looking overdone. I’m a true blazer girl, I own quite a few. You can dress up a simple pair of jeans immediately with this type of jacket. Every woman should have at least one well-fitting blazer in her closet. Fit and quality are key here. I personally prefer a slim-fitting style for winter. These blazers from Veronica Beard or J.Crew are great.

6) Sweater Dress

A sweater dress is another winter favorite of mine. It’s easy to dress up or down, whether styled with knee-high heeled boots or flat boots. I prefer a slightly oversized turtleneck sweater dress for extra warmth and comfort. It makes getting dressed effortless. No need to overthink your outfit, one dress, a pair of boots and you’re done! Gap has some good options like this one and I like this black sweater dress from Calvin Klein too.

7) Knee-High Black Heel Boots

A pair of knee-high black heeled boots in the winter is like heeled sandals in the summer: an essential for elevating your look. I wear mine with sweater dresses, mini skirts and over skinny jeans. Another must-have ladies! If you need a pair this one from Sam Edelman is a good option.

8) Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

I’m definitely a turtleneck girl, so of course it’s part of my winter staples! A cashmere turtleneck instantly makes you look chic. I recommend opting for neutral or earthy tones like shades of cream, grey and brown to achieve a polished timeless look. Here is a cashmere turtleneck in brown I like from Quince.

9) Chunky Mock Neck Sweater

I love a chunky sweater in the winter. It’s like wearing a warm blanket! I want to feel cozy and warm, yet still elegant. It pairs effortlessly with jeans or mini skirts. I like this chunky sweater from J.Crew. I have a similar style in black.

10) Long Black Wool Coat

A long black wool coat is a timeless piece. It’s chic, versatile and keeps you warm. Make sure you’re choosing a true wool coat for both warmth and longevity. I have this one from Aritzia.

11) Plaid Wool Mini Skirt

This is such a classic piece. The pattern elevates even the simplest outfits. I love pairing mine with a chunky sweater and tall boots. It’s simple, yet effortlessly stylish. Here are a few selections of plaid skirts I like from Theory, Madewell and Target.

XO from your favorite French Girl! 😉

(Full disclosure, some of the links I’m sharing are affiliate links, meaning that I will earn a commission on the products you’ll buy from them. The good news is that you will get a discount through my links.)