9 practical yet fashionable pieces we are coveting this week

Winter is here and we are looking for clothes that are both practical and fashionable. We want to look cool but these pieces must work alongside our busy lives too

With a new month, comes new aspirations and desires. The same can be said for a new week.

We can well and truly say that winter is here. The air is icy, a chilly mist lays over the horizon in the morning and I can’t survive without a hot water bottle by my side at all times.

Purchases at this time of year need to be both functional and stylish. This is no easy feat, but retailers are now pros. Most understand the modern woman. She’s busy, so simplicity is always ideal – but she wants to feel good too. Practicality should never detract from the luxury that is wearing a piece of clothing that makes you feel amazing.

Considered

In the eco-conscious times in which we live, we are becoming more aware of our purchases. The majority of us understand the harmful effects of fast fashion and our buying habits have become more considered. When we buy, we want the item to last. The idea of convenience and fashion blends seamlessly into this idea; the more use you have for an item, the more you will wear it.

Practicality is where it’s at and these nine pieces are certainly that.

Hooded long puffer coat, €195 at Cos

A puffer coat is a classic. It’s one of the most high functioning items you can buy. From school runs in the rain to chilly weekend walks, it will provide an excellent cost-per-wear ratio. This Cos number is a stylish and fresh take on the trend. The sloped shoulders keep it modern, while the longer length gives it the ‘wow’ factor.

Idol banana sleeve funnel neck jumper, €60 at Topshop

As a nation, we love our knitwear. Our mothers were forever telling us to put on a jumper when we dared to step outside the door, and now as adults, we just want to feel warm and cosy in this cold world.

This funnel neck jumper from Topshop will be extremely flattering on all body shapes. Its cinched-in waist will create a beautiful structure, while its balloon-style sleeves also help to accentuate our narrowest part.

Grenson Nanette leather hiker boots, €380.19 at Asos

It wouldn’t be winter without an ankle boot and these Grensons are worth the investment. With just the right amount of grunge, wear yours under jeans or structured trousers, or create a beautiful contrast under a glamorous midi-dress.

Tweed blazer, €190 at Arket

Blazers are the ‘it’ piece of the moment and fuse practicality and fashion together. Arket is an expert at creating high-quality items and this tweed number is a welcomed move away from classic black. Wear over slip dresses on a night out, or over a hoodie and jeans for daytime cool.

Side slit knitted midi dress, €89 at & Other Stories

Oh, midi dress. How did we ever survive without you? The midi dress is a wardrobe saviour. It’s the ultimate fashion cliché; ‘dress it up or dress it down’ or ‘wear from summer right through to winter’. This & Other Stories beauty is simplistic elegance in motion with its slouchy silhouette and tie-waist.

Croc leather knee-high boots, €229 at & Other Stories

Knee-high boots have become synonymous with winter fashion and like the classic ankle boot, they are a wardrobe must-have. The croc-leather of this pair gives the boots a beautiful point of difference, while the low heel means you won’t be reaching for the Compeed blister pads anytime soon.

High waist straight fit jeans, €79.99 at Selected

A good pair of jeans will take you places. The straight fit is universally flattering, and this pair from Selected is ideal for the winter months. The darker wash is a nice change from the harshness of black, while still maintaining the ‘goes with everything’ mentality. Plus, all Selected jeans are made from 100% organic cotton.

Pleated skirt, €39.99 at H&M

Like the midi-dress, the midi skirt is a wardrobe enigma. Providing versatility and style kudos in abundance, it’s a no-brainer purchase. This dark brown vision from H&M will provide elongation and shape and will look luxurious when worn with knee-high boots and a beautiful knit.

Marc Jacobs tri-colour snapshot camera bag, €330 at Brown Thomas

Many believe a big handbag – which can fit all of your secrets and personal belongings – is the pinnacle of accessories. However, a big bag can, in reality, be an annoyance. It’s heavy. It hurts your shoulder, back and arms. And you have lost the very secrets and belongings you placed in there at the beginning.

This is why a smaller bag, such as the Marc Jacobs camera bag, is the way to go. Small in size, but will fit your phone, wallet and lipstick – in other words, the essentials.

Read more: 20 of the best winter coats to buy this season

Read more: It’s freezing out there, but these 10 high street knitwear pieces are keeping me warm

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