Easy ways to refresh your wardrobe for a new year

New year, new you? Go easy on yourself – this year may not be providing quite the return to normality that we’d all hoped for, but the quietness of January still provides a good moment to reboot. In the case of your wardrobe, it’s the perfect time for a gentle shake-up.

A considered pick-me-up purchase is often all it takes to lift your everyday outfits - and raise spirits in the process. A pop of colour here, a change of cut there… here’s a guide to what to wear to ring in the New Year changes.

Not still WFH in your slippers, are you? Entirely unscientific evidence points to productivity levels soaring when you’re properly shod. That said, a chunky boot probably still feels OTT for working from the sitting room. Enter the backless mule – a style which has been around for a while, but is enjoying a return to the spotlight as the house shoe of choice for 2022. Elegant, flexible and requiring no need for a footwear change when you pop out for a pint of milk, your feet have earned this one.

No, not the sort to see you into the gym, but a fun, off-duty style with an applique or an unusual print. Certain to add a splash of interest to your video calls, there are few things comfier than a cotton-rich top to take the edge off the greyest of months

With waist-up dressing still mattering most in the style stakes right now, make sure that you don't forget about earrings. These days there’s no such thing as a no-earring day – and a pair of hoops in a metal of your choice offers a simple yet impactful embellishment.

The harshest of the winter weather is yet to come, so a quilted layer, whether that’s a new coat or neat bomber slipped under an overcoat, is a sensible (and tactile) buy. Look for styles made from recycled fibres for extra sustainability points. 

If skinny jeans are your vice, break from your usual mould with a wide-leg silhouette. Comfortable and effortless, they’ll overhaul your knits in an instant. And you’re spoilt for choice, with options ranging from jersey jogger styles to more tailored trousers. Style with ankle boots and embrace the gap.

January is a bold time to face the new-season trends head on, but the ruffles and frills of the romantic prairie trend have been simmering away for a while now. Try a pretty collar poking out of a crew-neck jumper, or a tiered dress – all of which come in forgiving, relaxed fits.

Colours and patterns are proven to instantly boost your mood, and these cheery styles will see you stylishly into spring. Layer rollnecks under dresses until those new season shoots start showing.