I’ve Survived 17 Delhi Winters And These Are The Wardrobe Staples I Can’t Live Without

Winters in Delhi are a tricky business. It’s not just the drop in temperature – the cold has a way of sneaking in sideways, carried by winds that seem to blow at all hours. For most of us, surviving it would ideally mean staying wrapped up in blankets, parked in front of a heater, pretending the world outside doesn’t exist. But, of course, adulting has other plans. The city calls, work calls, life calls – and suddenly you’re stepping out into that biting cold, forced to smile, mingle, and keep up appearances, all while hoping your coat is doing its job.

I’ll admit, my first few winters in Delhi were…educational. Either I was bundled up like a snowman or underdressed enough to regret leaving the house. Nearly two decades in, though, I like to think I’ve perfected the art of winter dressing – balancing warmth and style without compromise.

For years, I struggled with the eternal question: dress for fashion, or dress for the weather? Truth be told, fashion usually won. But veteran status brings a little wisdom (Yes, it only took 17 winters) and now, I know how to layer, mix textures, and choose pieces that keep me warm without sacrificing style.

This piece is my way of passing along that hard-earned knowledge. Consider it a roadmap to stocking up, layering wisely, and striding through Delhi winters looking and feeling your best. Because cold should never come at the expense of style.

The Must-Have Pieces For Your Winter Closet

1. A Warm, Stylish Coat

No matter your winter style, a well-made, warm coat is non-negotiable. Whether layered over a dress, paired with denim, or thrown over a skirt, a neutral coat in shades like beige or black works with just about everything. Trust me, this is not the place to skimp. Experience has shown that cheaper fabrics mean more cold and less longevity.

Some of my coats have been through nearly seven Delhi winters and still look pristine. Every season, someone inevitably asks where I found them. True, I like to call them “investment pieces” (my husband might call them indulgences), but the payoff is worth it.

Pro Tip: Consider the Amory Wool Herringbone Coat from Ralph Lauren Collection, the Double-Faced Wool Coat by Polo Ralph Lauren, or Burberry’s iconic Wool Belmont Trench Cape – classic pieces that merge style, warmth, and durability in one elegant package.

Price: (Left; ₹ 294,000 | Middle; ₹ 83,500 | Right; ₹2,69,000)

2. The Killer Boots

Cold, dreary mornings in Delhi often find me planted in front of the heater, debating whether the job is worth dragging myself out of bed. Once I’ve finally decided that, yes, I do need the money (I hope my boss is not reading this!) and settled on an outfit – any shoe indecision usually disappears! My go-to is almost always knee-high boots. They keep me warm, add an effortless touch of style, and, honestly, pair with almost anything.

I always keep two shades on hand – tan and black – because versatility is everything.

Pro Tip: If you’re thinking of investing, consider Chloé’s Eve thigh-high boots or Givenchy’s Shark 95 leather knee-highs. Statement-making yet practical, they keep your legs cosy while quietly inviting a steady stream of compliments. Sit tight, look effortlessly chic, and let the boots do the talking.

Price: (Left; ₹1,23,326 | Right; ₹2,82,490)

3. Ankle Boot(s)

Every fashionista worth her salt and determined to survive the Delhi cold needs at least two reliable ankle boots in her arsenal. One with show-stopping heels for office or evening outings, and another flat or comfy pair for park strolls, errands, or window shopping.

Pro Tip: My top picks are UGG’s Women’s Bailey Bow Tall II Boot for cosy-casual days, or Dior’s Heeled Ankle Boot in black for moments that call for a little drama. Choose whichever fits your mood, or… why not both? After all, as L’Oréal says: We’re worth it.

Price: (Left; ₹22,459 | Right; ₹140,000)

Also Read: Delhi’s Toxic Air Is Quietly Destroying Your Skin: Here’s How Dermatologists Say You Can Protect It

4. A Luxury Scarf

In Delhi, your neck is basically on high alert from November to February. Whether you’re braving a romantic night ride on a bike or playing the “passenger princess” in a car, a scarf is non-negotiable. Trust me – there’s no negotiating with the cold here. Fuzzy, warm, indulgent scarves are your best friends (cashmere, obviously).

Personally, I like a little mischief in my scarves because when the rest of my winter wardrobe is neutral, why not have a scarf with personality?

Pro Tip: I’d recommend the LOEWE x Louis Wain Mohair and Wool Scarf for a whimsical twist, or the Hermès Petite Casaque Coaching Scarf for something luxurious yet understated. Either way, you’ll stay snug, stylish, and ready for whatever Delhi throws your way.

Price: (Left; ₹72,000 | Right; ₹49,422 )

5. Gloves

In Delhi, “covered from head to toe” is non-negotiable. I always keep a pair of gloves in my bag because there are mornings when the cold is so stiff, my fingers start protesting like they have a mind of their own. By now, I’m assuming you’re dressed in trusted labels (a little extra spend actually saves you in the long run), so make sure your gloves are warm and fun.

Pro Tip: If I had to choose, Brunello Cucinelli’s shearling-trimmed suede gloves would be my pick for a classic cosy vibe, or Portolano’s long leather gloves if you’re in the mood for a bit of drama (and yes, drama counts as a winter accessory). Either way, your hands stay happy, your style stays intact, and you can smugly laugh at everyone shivering around you…though, full disclosure, I don’t actually do this!

Price: (Left; ₹97,449 | Right; ₹46,275)

6. A Cute, Fuzzy Cap

Just like my scarves, I like a touch of whimsy in my winter caps because why not have a little fun while staying warm? And if you’re worried a hat might throw off your whole look, don’t be. I’ve long admired women who manage to pull off a cap and still look effortlessly adorable, stylish, and yes, a little sexy, even in the depths of Delhi winter.

Pro Tip: For those new to the hat game, a safe bet is Brunello Cucinelli’s wool beret – classic, chic, and foolproof. But if you’re feeling adventurous, try something like Jacquemus’s leather-trimmed shearling trapper hat. It’s playful, warm and simply too adorable to ignore.

Price: (Left; ₹37,941 | ₹Right; ₹58,381)

7. Big Beautiful Bags

Surviving Delhi winters means a roomy, statement-making bag isn’t optional, it’s essential. Big enough to hold all your winter essentials (and, maybe even a tiny heater? JK?), it’s the practical companion your wardrobe needs. Layering, scarves, gloves, and more take space, and your bag should be ready for the job.

Pro Tip: If I were investing in a winter bag this season, my picks would be Saint Laurent’s Le 5 à 7 Bea suede tote or Miu Miu’s Adventure shearling-lined suede tote. Both are spacious, practical, and effortlessly chic, a combination that proves you really can have it all.

Also Read: The Hermès Hierarchy Decoded: The Most Expensive Bags Ever Sold; From Birkins To Entry Level Icons

Price: (Left; ₹2,83,735 | Right; ₹3,72,337)

8. The Perfect Winter Perfume

One thing I’ve learned surviving Delhi winters – a good, luxurious perfume can lift the mood, fend off the winter blues, and leave a little magic wherever you go. While my summer scents tend to be light and floral, winter calls for something richer, bolder -something that makes a statement. I usually spritz along my lapels (am I doing it wrong? maybe!), or on pulse points, so the fragrance lingers subtly around me.

I still remember, almost eight years ago, meeting a famous celebrity in the heart of a Delhi winter for an interview. She smelled otherworldly, honestly! Naturally, I had to know what it was. After the interview, I mustered up the courage to ask, fully expecting her to brush me off. But she didn’t. She graciously shared her secret – Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum.Since then, it has been my winter go-to.

Pro Tip: Another iconic choice is the Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum, an unforgettable fragrance that perfectly suits the season.

Price: (Left; ₹12,848 | Right; ₹31,895)

9. Body Lotion

Delhi winters are unforgiving on the skin, which means a good body lotion quickly becomes part of your daily survival kit. The cold air has a way of turning skin dry and uncomfortable almost instantly, so keeping a nourishing formula close at hand is essential.

Pro Tip: Diptyque Paris’ Rich Butter for the Body offers deep hydration with a sensorial edge, while Augustinus Bader’s The Body Cream is a cult favourite for good reason – rich, restorative, and effective. Take your pick!

Price: (Left; ₹9166 | Right; ₹17,100)

10. Red Lipstick

And Of Course… Red Lipstick

Really, did you think I’d round off a winter essentials list without a bold red lip? Never. Red lipstick in winter is pure magic. Whether you’re at the office, out with friends, or spontaneously heading to an evening soiree, a swipe of red can completely glam up your look.

Pro Tip: If I were you, I’d reach for Christian Louboutin Rouge Louboutin Velvet Matte Lipstick or Chanel 31 Le Rouge Matte Lipstick in Rouge N°5. Both are classic, luxurious, and favourites of some of our most stylish celebrities. Trust me, a good red is winter armour you’ll never regret investing in.

Price: (Left; ₹14,000 | Right; ₹16,450)

Also Read: The Only Red You Need This Christmas: 10 Iconic Red Lipsticks For The Holiday Season