There's really only 5 staples you need in your winter wardrobe.

I like to think I've mastered the art of winter dressing. No, seriously. I have all the thermals you could imagine and my knitwear collection takes up about 90 per cent of my wardrobe.

However, it's taken me a long time to get here. I have vivid memories of owning a mismatch of clothing items that didn't make sense together, and in the end, it would end up in the donation pile during a closet clear-out.

Watch: Inside My Wardrobe | Coats. Post continues below.

As a fashion writer, nothing is more trendy these days than a 'capsule wardrobe', and don't get me wrong, I love the idea, however, that's not what I'm here to promote today. Instead, I'm going to walk you through five staple items that will work with everything you already own.

Whether you're someone who refuses to wear anything but black, or you exclusively wear colour, my picks will work for you.

So let's get into the five staples you need in your winter wardrobe (and the ones I believe you should invest in).

A well-fitting turtle neck.

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The reason I've popped a turtle neck at the top of the list is because I wear one with everything as soon as temperatures drop below 20 degrees. I style it on its own with a pair of tailored trousers or a skirt, or I use it as a layering piece and wear it underneath a cosy knit jumper. I have a few on rotation in three different colours: black, beige and grey, but take a look at the colours you wear most and invest in a turtleneck that matches your vibe. 

I recommend:

Atmos&Here Kate Wool Blend Turtle Neck Knit Jumper, $49.99.

Image: Atmos&Here, The Iconic.

H&M Fine Knit Turtleneck Sweater, $27.99.

Image: H&M.

Uniqlo Heattech Fleece Turtleneck Long Sleeve T-Shirt, $24.90.

Image: Uniqlo.

An ankle-grazing knit dress.

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It's easy, effortless and requires zero thought, that's why the knit midi dress is so popular for this time of the year. You can dress it down by wearing it with a pair of sneakers or opt for a cute set of heels if you want to look more put together. It's a staple, not only because of how simple it is to wear, but because it stands the test of time. 

I recommend:

DISSH Ada Stone Long Sleeve Midi Dress, $159.99.

Image: DISSH.

Atmos&Here Elarie Contrast Knit Midi Dress, $89.99.

Image: Atmos&Here, The Iconic.

Oxford Cara Knitted Dress, $229.

Image: Oxford, The Iconic.

Tailored suit trousers.

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I love trousers. Leather, wool, checkered, you name it; I own it. For winter, I like to wear a few on rotation, with my go-to style being wide-leg and straight. However, if you're more of a capri or cigarette pants girl, then feel free to swap these recommendations out for something more up your alley. At the end of the day, you need your wardrobe to work with you, not against you. 

I recommend:

Assembly Label Sofia Wool Pinstripe Pant, $250. 

Image: Assembly Label.

Forever New Primrose Curve High-Waisted Pants, $99.99.

Image: Forever New.

COS Flared Knitted Wool Trousers, $190. 

Image: COS, The Iconic.

An everyday knit.

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It may seem like a no-brainer but many of us forget to invest in nice knitwear come winter. If you enjoy comfort and live in leggings, buy a longer, oversized jumper. Otherwise, there are so many cute options available right now — we're truly spoilt for choice. If you don't mind splurging, invest in cashmere, just make sure you're storing it right (always fold and never hang!).

I recommend:

H&M Knit Dress, $44.99.

Image: H&M.

UNIQLO Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater, $169.90.

Image: Uniqlo.

Minima Esenciales Bowe Cashmere Blend Oversized Jumper, $240.

Image: Minima Esenciales, The Iconic.

A long coat. 

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You can't head into winter without a classic coat. The best ones will last you more than one season, so think of a nice trench that you can wear throughout spring or a woollen belted coat. 

I recommend:

Witchery Yarn-Dye Draped Trench Coat, $399.95.

Image: Witchery.

Forever New Oscar Curve Check Coat, $199.99.

Image: Forever New.

Cotton On Maxie Coat, $149.99.

Image: Cotton On, The Iconic.

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Feature Image: Instagram @basmahqazi.