I'm a Minimalist Fashion Editor—5 Winter Outfits I Swear By

These non-fussy formulas take less than five minutes to assemble.

Lauren Tappan wearing a black trench coat, Lauren Tappan wearing a leather jacket and white pants, Lauren Tappan wearing a collarless coat and black pants
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

When you have several years of experience in the fashion industry, putting together a polished ensemble becomes second nature. Not to brag, but I can whip up a chic look in under five minutes—sometimes even two. In my case, I’ve specifically mastered the art of minimalist outfits, and I’m here to tell you that it’s actually quite easy.

Much of my pared-down style is inspired by the quiet-luxury runways of the past and present. The ‘90s collections of Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein have taught me that, one, there’s nothing chicer than an all-black uniform, and two, less is always more. Meanwhile, contemporary runways from The Row, Toteme, and Khaite have demonstrated the understated power of streamlined denim and simple knitwear.

I’ve also taken plenty of notes from well-dressed A-listers like Zoë Kravitz, Kendall Jenner, and Hailey Bieber—all of whom have found a prime spot on my mood board. With their help, I’ve assembled a low-effort, high-reward wardrobe that I’m quite proud of.

Ahead, discover the minimalist winter outfits that I’ve put in heavy rotation this season. Defined by neutral shades and uncomplicated silhouettes, these straightforward styles boast an effortless attitude. Plus, they feature plenty of layers and cozy fabrics, so you’ll stay nice and warm.

Collarless Coats

Lauren Tappan wearing a collarless coat, black jeans, black boots, and a brown suede tote

(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

I first spotted the collarless coat trend on the Fall 2025 runways of Toteme, Calvin Klein, and Chanel. I’ve since adopted the outerwear style, wearing it nearly every week. (My co-workers will attest to this.)

Given that this particular piece from Everlane has a slightly cropped silhouette, I paired it with high-waisted jeans to balance out the look. Anchored in black boots and elevated with shimmering jewelry and a suede tote bag, it’s the perfect outfit that can transition from days in the office to post-work happy hours.

Cool Blue

Lauren Tappan wearing a blue sweater, a black coat, jeans, and black boots

(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

If you haven’t yet heard, frosty shades of cool blue are trending. Luckily, for all you minimalists out there, this pastel hue can easily cosplay as a neutral.

Here, I chose to embrace the color with a charming crewneck cardigan. I kept warm in a long wool coat and pair of wide-leg jeans, and embellished the look with a leather belt, kitten-heeled boots, and gold hoops.

Winter Whites

Lauren Tappan wearing a black leather jacket, white jeans, a sweater vest, boots, and a shoulder bag

(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

Forget what you heard about not wearing white after Labor Day.—you can indeed style milky shades during the colder months, and this look is proof. The key is winterizing your outfit with sturdy layers and comfy knits. Follow my lead and style a pair of white jeans with a leather bomber jacket and a sweater vest. If temperatures are below freezing, throw a heavy coat into the mix.

Off Duty

Lauren Tappan wearing a black coat, a black sweater, jeans, adidas sambas, and a cap

(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

I’m the type of girl who likes to look put-together while running errands. Although there’s absolutely nothing wrong with sweatpants and a puffer jacket, my off-duty outfit of choice involves a sweater, a buttoned coat, and baggy jeans. A New York Yankees hat and a pair of Adidas Sambas pull things together perfectly.

For Late Nights

Lauren Tappan wearing a leather trench coat, a mini skirt, a turtleneck, sheer tights, and black boots

(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

If you’re searching for a going-out outfit, look no further. Start with a leather trench coat that serves a subtle dose of drama. Then, add in a black top, a matching mini skirt, and a pair of sheer tights. As for shoes and accessories, consider knee-high boots and a slouchy cherry red handbag.

Lauren Tappan
Fashion Editor

Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.

Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.