The Art Of Schlepping

In January and February, my main goal is warmth and comfort. I struggle to pull together anything beyond denim, a knit and a great coat. Now isn’t the time to be experimental with my outfits. A proven, go-to formula is key.

Most days, I’m not only dressing for the destination, I’m factoring in the commute and the weather forecast.

I’m looking to accessories to do the heavy lifting, coats that can be thrown on to make an outfit (not ruin it), and footwear that’s practical and cool. They’re the pieces that make simple outfits feel considered.

Schlepping outfits work best when they’re built around function first, with interest layered in intentionally.

The Olsens have completely mastered the art of schlepping in style. An oversized coat, bag and scarf all thrown on to create a slightly chaotic, hot-mess energy that somehow always works and looks just polished enough.

Wearing something for a purpose, that’s functional for a British winter, always looks better than trying to ignore the weather. Dressing with intention and choosing pieces suited to the elements feels far more pulled together than forcing a look that doesn’t quite land. An outfit never really works if you look uncomfortable, cold or wet.

My Winter Schlepping Checklist

1. My Leather Trench gets a lot of love during winter. It’s super long, and it doesn’t really matter what I wear underneath, I always feel pulled together. I prefer letting outerwear do the work. (Mine is Rohe but try Whistles or Nour Hammour for similar)
2. A sturdy boot is essential so you’re ready for puddles or icy conditions. Shoes matter more than anything on schlepping days, if they don’t work, the outfit doesn’t either. Try these or these.
3. An interesting knit. If all I’m wearing is denim and knitwear, I like to add interest through colour or print so the outfit doesn’t feel flat. A good cable-knit is always a good idea. I adore this one.
4. I try not to over-layer. Walking, rushing, then getting on the tube means overheating fast, so I keep my base light and rely on coats and accessories instead.
5. On the rainiest of days, swap out your go-to denim for a Cargo or Black Trouser (my current favourite sits somewhere between a tailored trouser and a jogger). Soggy denim is the worst, these will be a more forgiving option
6. A trainer or loafer on dry days, always with a sock. No bare ankles. (Comme-Si for the best socks)
7. A shearling headscarf or triangle scarf. Intentional yet functional. Nour Hammour does a great one, I also just got this Leather Hood)
8. Leopard print or faux fur coats to keep cosy and warm while still looking very chic. Ducie or De Savary.
9. Adding a pop of colour, like red, to a simple look.
10. Layer with Uniqlo HEATTECH or a Intimissimi cashmere roll-neck (exactly the kind of layer I want touching my skin) when needed
11. Puffer jackets can look chic, it’s about finding the right one. I’m loving a long, sleeping-bag style (Norma Kamali is the OG).
12. I’ve had my Rains Waterproof Parka for nearly 10 years and It’s so handy to throw on over my outfits when the rain is relentless. (I love the look of the Suva A-Line shape too and this waisted North Face Parka).
13. A structured bag, big enough for all the schlepping essentials but smart enough to pull the look together. Hand-held only, no-one needs the added stress of trying to get a shoulder bag to fit over a coat and a cross-body just looks scruffy. Demellier or Little Liffner.
14. A Leather Glove is the accessory to have this winter.
15. Going tonal with your look instantly elevates even the most practical outfit.
16. I’m loving a Fringed Cape Coat as a cool yet practical extra layer, especially on days when I want to feel a little more polished. Stories or Arket.