A winter wardrobe doesn't have to consist of dozens of new purchases: according to Ukrainian designer Andre Tan, it is enough to focus on a few successful pieces that easily combine with each other. The designer has published a selection of five items that, in his opinion, are worth including in the cold season so you don't have to choose between warmth and style. The material is based on a publication on Tan's Instagram page, which was retold by the entertainment project Styler from RBC-Ukraine.
Long puffer jacket instead of short
Short waist-length puffer jackets can look striking, but in severe frosts, practicality comes to the fore. Andre Tan recommends paying attention to long, voluminous models with high-quality insulation: such a puffer better protects against the cold and helps create a relevant winter silhouette. It can be combined with wide jeans, insulated trousers, chunky boots, or high boots. In earlier recommendations, the designer also emphasized that a modern puffer jacket must be long — to cover midi and maxi skirts — and also advised choosing dense, high-quality fabrics without shiny thin materials that gather into small folds, preferring a concealed fastening and a loose belt if provided by the jacket itself.
Shearling coat as an image accent
Another item the designer advises paying attention to is a shearling coat, with voluminous shearling models considered especially relevant. This can be a classic aviator shearling or a version with a large, expressive collar. Such models look striking, add texture to the look, and go well with both jeans and skirts or dresses. Since a shearling coat with a massive collar can become the main accent of the winter look, Tan advises keeping the rest of the items restrained.
Cashmere sweater as an investment in comfort
A cashmere sweater, according to the designer, is not just a basic item, but an investment in comfort for the cold season: natural high-quality cashmere is soft, lightweight, and retains heat well. Andre Tan advises choosing voluminous high-neck models in successful colors like milky, chocolate, and grey, which are easy to combine with other wardrobe elements. At the same time, the designer warns against buying cheap synthetics under the guise of cashmere: if the properties of the natural material are important, you should carefully read the composition of the product.
Oversized scarf with no size limits
This season, according to the designer's advice, the size of the scarf does not matter: it is better to choose large, voluminous models that can be styled in different ways. Such an accessory can be worn over a coat, wrapped around the neck several times, or draped over the shoulders — it will not only protect against wind and cold, but also give the look a cozy feel. Large scarves look especially striking in combination with a classic coat, long puffer jacket, or shearling coat. In the context of winter 2026 trends, the designer also noted the relevance of fur scarves, which can become a more budget-friendly alternative to a fur coat and add sophistication even to a simple look.
Thermal underwear as an invisible layer
Andre Tan's final recommendation is an item that is usually not visible to others, but it is precisely what can make winter looks significantly more comfortable. Thin thermal underwear under a dress, trousers, or sweater helps retain heat without adding extra volume, thanks to which you can wear your favorite clothes even in frosty weather and not give up elegant looks. The main thing is to correctly choose thermal underwear according to its purpose, composition, and density: thin models that are invisible under the main clothing are suitable for an everyday urban wardrobe.
Andre Tan's ultimate winter wardrobe idea boils down to the fact that you don't need to choose between warmth and style: a long puffer jacket, a cozy shearling coat, a soft sweater, a large scarf, and invisible thermal underwear help you feel comfortable even in cold weather.
