There's no denying that January can be...depressing. It's cold (freezing RN, actually), there's a distinct lack of sunshine and everyone's broke. Sob. However, you can inject joy into the humdrum of everyday life with your clothing choices — we've all heard of dopamine dressing, right?
Much like a blazer, a tweed jacket and jeans is an easy to wear outfit formula — it's comfortable yet you look put-together, which is no easy feat. And thanks to both Chanel and Dior's recent pre-fall 2026 collections, it's a bang on trend item as well.
It can be difficult to dress for colder weather — after all, why not stay curled up under a blanket with the heating on full blast? But for those of us who actually have to leave the house, there's a limit to how many times you can wear a bulky puffer jacket without craving a little fashion magic. So, we've scoured the street-style set for the best ideas on how to layer up stylishly in your favourite jeans and jacket — trust us, it is possible. January won't know what's hit it.
Scarf coat and bright trainers
It felt like scarf coats were everywhere last year — and it's safe to say that they will be staying put. This wearer has layered hers over a pink tweed jacket, which matches the laces of her red trainers, adding pops of bright colour against the camel shade. Her embellished jeans and chunky gold jewellery seriously combat the winter blues.
Layered T-shirts and chunky socks
Instead of trying to hide your multitude of layers, embrace them! A bright T-shirt worn underneath a black graphic one adds interest and stands out against a white tweed jacket. And while it might be tempting to wear nothing but Ugg boots at this time of year, don't be afraid to pair lady-like pumps and heels with chunky ribbed socks, for a cosy yet chic look.
Leather shirt and oversized bag
A chocolate brown leather shirt and a burgundy tweed jacket are a match made in heaven, as demonstrated by this wearer. The oversized clutch bag adds a splash of print to the ensemble, and her dark indigo, wide-leg jeans are seriously lust-worthy.
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Roll-neck jumper and sunglasses
If you're not into colourful, clashing layers, then why not go matchy-matchy instead? A black roll-neck jumper is a wardrobe staple, and works perfectly underneath a buttoned-up tweed jacket. Shield your eyes from the winter sun in oversized, visor style shades and complement your baggy denim with point-toe boots.
Crochet scarf and two-tone pumps
Throw a crochet scarf over a tweed jacket for a grown-up winter look. A pair of classic two-tone pumps keep the overall ensemble lady-like, balancing the more playful colours and textures.
White shirt and trainers
No matter what tweed jacket or jean style you opt for, this is an outfit formula that will hit every time. A classic white shirt and classic white trainers keep the look fresh, modern and smart without being stuffy.
Neckerchief and Mary-Janes
Adding a pop of colour or print to a black jacket is easily done with a knotted neckerchief. Turn up your denim to show off a pair of Mary-Jane shoes, styled with socks to avoid frostbite, naturally.
Cross-body bag and lace-up boots
Victorian style lace-up boots are having a moment. Wear them underneath embellished or patterned denim to bring them into the 21st century. A colourful tweed jacket and chain-strap cross-body bag keep the outfit youthful and interesting.
Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.
Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.
