Let’s face it. Men’s winter workwear can sometimes feel like a battle between staying warm and looking professional. But what if you could achieve both?
Here at Next Level Wardrobe, we’ve developed an image and style system based on working with over 250 clients year-round that helps you build a strategic wardrobe. One that’s not just about surviving the cold but also about looking polished for any occasion, no matter the dress code. This system focuses on the core principles of investing in essentials, balancing color, and finding the right fit.
Keep reading to learn about our system and easy tips for men’s winter style that’ll never leave you out in the cold.
What We Saw in 2024 and What We Predict for 2025
While most style guides focus on flash-in-the-pan trends and fads, Next Level Wardrobe likes to look at the big picture. That way, we ensure our clients maintain an up-to-date yet timeless style. From working with clients from many different industries, here’s what we saw overall and what we think will stick around in 2025.
- The Return to the Office
With more and more people heading back to physical workplaces, there’s a renewed focus on put-together work attire. - Rise of Work Travel
Business trips also continue to skyrocket. Your wardrobe needs to be versatile enough to handle meetings and commutes. (Planes, trains, and automobiles, here you come!) - Relaxed Dress Codes
Gone are the days of overly formal office wear. No more starched shirts and iron-pressed slacks. The emphasis is on equal measure of comfort and professionalism. Elevated men’s business casual is the norm now in many environments. - Light Layers
With global warming on many people’s minds, bulky winter clothes are taking a backseat. Look for sleek and streamlined outerwear that keeps you warm without weight.
Tuck these trends in your back pocket to keep your workwear style focused.
1. Identify and Invest in Timeless Winter Workwear Essentials
We believe good style starts and ends with what’s in your closet. Think of yourself as a chef and your closet as your pantry. If you make a five-star meal, you need five-star ingredients AND the right combination.
The same principle applies to your wardrobe. It’s not enough just to have a fully-stocked closet. You need a wardrobe that fits your lifestyle and goals. That means you need to think critically about what items are essential to own.
Think of what you must wear to the office, for business trips or big meetings, and what you need on the weekends. Make a list of all of these things and take a good long look at your wardrobe to see if it fits your list. If not, you need to clean out your closet, cut the fat, and find the missing pieces.
Do this, and you can intelligently invest in clothes that will serve you for winters to come.
Some essentials worth considering for your workwear men’s style wardrobe are:
- Tailored Trousers
- Dress Shirts
- Layerable T-shirts
- Warm Sweaters
- Durable Winter Coat
2. Balance Color in Your Wardrobe
Men’s winter clothing style doesn’t have to be boring! Whether you’re a color pro or prefer to be low-key, our tried and true “Hierarchy of Color” has your back.
Here’s the breakdown.
- 45% of your closet should be made up of core colors.
Core colors are neutrals, aka navy, gray, black, and white. These form the strong foundation of any wardrobe because they’re easy to mix, and match, and always look professional. - Next, 35% of your wardrobe should consist of tonal colors.
These are shades and tints of core colors, as well as other subdued tones like olive and beige. These add depth to your outfits so you don’t get bored of your core-colored base. BUT, they’re still easy to pair with other colors. - Finally, leave 20% of your closet for accent colors.
You can use bold colors sparingly to add personality and visual interest. AKA, this is where you can show off your personal brand. Think of a patterned tie or a brightly-colored scarf.
Follow this infographic to create the maximum amount of outfits from minimal clothing.
3. Find the Right Fit
Product by Bloomingdale’s, shop here.
There’s just about nothing as important as fit, especially when it comes to men’s workwear style where layering is involved. Well-tailored pieces flatter your body and maintain a sleek silhouette, even when you’re bundled up.
Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Start with a Well-Fitting Base Layer
A good base layer like a fitted sweater or long sleeve is the key to looking sleek. Something like this is easy to build off of. For example, add a wool coat, boots, and a scarf if you need something for New York men’s winter style. Or, if you need to dress for a warmer climate like California, add a lightweight bomber jacket and chukkas. - Avoid Bulky Clothing
It’s possible to stay warm without looking like a marshmallow. Choose fitted base layers and outerwear that drapes well. Avoid overly thick and bulky knits or packing too many layers under your coat. - Tailoring is Your Friend
Tailoring always sounds like such a huge extra expense. Don’t get us wrong; we know it’s a little extra effort and money. However, working with an alteration specialist to get your ideal fit is unbeatable. Doing this will make your clothes seem like they were made just for you, instantly improving your silhouette, presentation, and self-esteem.
4. Master Layers
Product by Theory, shop here.
Winter doesn’t have to be bulky to be functional. The key is layering smartly. Here’s how to accomplish this easily:
- Start with a Base Layer
Begin with thin, moisture-wicking layers and build from there. This keeps you comfortable throughout the day and prevents overheating. - Prioritize Quality
Invest in a high-quality wool or cashmere sweater—it provides warmth without the extra weight or bulk. - Mix Up Your Layers
Think beyond the basics. Add a vest or experiment with layering button-downs and sweaters for a look that adapts to any temperature.
Master these tips, and you’ll stay warm and stylish all winter long—no compromises needed.
5. Master the Finishing Touches
Product by Bloomingdale’s, shop here.
Accessories can transform your outfit. A leather belt, textured scarf, or gloves can pull your look together effortlessly.
- Keep It Balanced
If your outfit leans neutral, a patterned scarf adds a pop of personality. But remember, less is more—don’t overwhelm your look with too many bold pieces. - Start Small
New to accessorizing? Begin with one item, like classic black gloves. Once you’re comfortable, layer in a textured scarf or statement belt.
With the right accessories, your winter style will be both functional and polished.
Make Upgrading Your Men’s Winter Style Easy
Cold-weather shopping doesn’t seem as scary anymore, does it? Use these tips to simplify your winter wardrobe this season.
Still, need extra help getting your closet in order and shopping for yourself? No worries. While these tips may get you through men’s winter workwear style in 2025, we have a more hands-on solution if you need year-round help.
We’re currently pre-booking for Next Level Wardrobe’s Men’s Styling Services, including Men’s Virtual Executive Image Consulting and Men’s Online Personal Styling. Apply today to start your year off on the right foot!
