With a seriously cold snap arriving this week, we're looking at ways to make our wardrobe as warm as it can be with the best thermals. Winter coats have been top of our shopping list of late, from stylish puffer coats to 'dressing gown-style' cover-ups. And with hundreds of options in a range of prices we've been completely spoilt for choice. But it's not just outerwear that can help us to stay warm this winter.
This year, however, it's not just the weather that's making us brace for the chill. The current cost of living crisis and soaring bills have forced us to reconsider how we stay warm at home or work and with searches for the best thermals already soaring on Google, it seems everyone is looking for a solution.
The key is to look for layering pieces or items that feature thermal properties that you can build into your usual outfits - such as thermal tights or leggings, long sleeve-tops, even jeans - which are now available with either a fleece lining or with thermal technology built into them to help lock in that warmth.
The clothes you once only considered for practical pursuits? They’re now the pieces that will help you endure the winter chill in your daily life. Look for puffers and padded jackets for an extra layer of cushiony warmth or quilted jacket liners, which are a great way to add in an extra layer without the bulk. With that being said, here are the best thermals to help you stay cosy during our coldest winter yet.
SHOP: The Best Thermal Clothing To Help You Stay Warm In 2025
Uniqlowww.uniqlo.com
This fleecy Heat-tech turtleneck is the perfect extra layer you need in this cold weather. You can also easily layer it underneath a chunky knit, a boxy t-shirt or even a dress of your choice.
Marks & Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
If you're looking for a set of thermal tops that will serve you throughout winter, then this two pack set will do just the job - we particularly love the burgundy and black colourways. Simply style them with jeans, trousers, skirts and more and you'll always look put together, while still feeling warm too.
Uniqlo HEAT-TECH Crew Neck T-Shirt
Simple yet chic, this lightweight long sleeve top is the perfect base layer for any chilly occasion. Designed with Uniqlo's unique heat-tech technology, these tops are also made with ultra fine fibres for that extra soft feeling on the skin.
Sweaty Bettywww.sweatybetty.com
As well as activewear, Sweaty Betty has also made a name for itself when it comes to skiwear and base layers. This Modal High Neck Base Layer Top uses ultra-lightweight construction for effortless layering.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
If you're looking for a bodysuit you can wear on a night out that also keeps you warm, you may have met your match with this Next lace trim black bodysuit. Ideal for layering, this bodysuit is perfect for work and play.
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
Don't turn your nose up at the humble vest, especially when it's heat-generating like John Lewis'. This thermal racerback vest is cleverly designed to generate and trap heat to keep you warm. Plus, we give it extra style points for its chic, wearable racerback cut.
Marks & Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
A fashion editor staple, these thermal brushed leggings are a key item that our fashion team are wearing to stay warm this season. Slip underneath your favourite jeans, joggers, or wide-leg trousersand no one will ever know they're there. If you've booked a ski trip too, wear them underneath your salopettes for a toasty ensemble.
Uniqlowww.uniqlo.com
All hail the cosiest joggers. These fleece lined joggers are essential for those days spent curled up on the sofa, as well as when you need to head out on a cold dog walk. With a sleek, flattering design, you'll be pleased to hear that these joggers are also available in your favourite neutral shades.
Skimswww.net-a-porter.com
Known for its serious sculpting power, Skims are no stranger to a pair of leggings. However, these Thermal Ribbed Cotton-Blend ones are a great base layer for cold climate concerns.
ACAIwww.johnlewis.com
Billed as the 'ultimate cold-weather performance legwear', the ACAI Thermal Skinny Outdoor Trousers are fleece-lined and shower-resistant.
ASOSwww.asos.com
If you're looking for a sculpted, thermal all-in-one, we are pro this luxe brown jumpsuit from ASOS this winter. Style under a puffer coat for those chilly winter walks, or wear as described underneath your ski outfit.
Marks & Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
If you're wanting a 'duvet' style coat that isn't just stylish, but will keep you toasty too, then this quilted option from Marks & Spencer wins our top pick this winter 2025. We're also absolutely obsessed with its oversized sophisticated hood.
North Facewww.thenorthface.co.uk
If you're in dire need of a practical jacket that will keep you snug on the coldest outdoor adventures, this North Face hooded jacket is the staple coat you need. Made with 50/50 blend of 600-fill recycled waterfowl down and recycled polyester for exceptional warmth, this jacket will never fail you - come rain or snow.
Marks & Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
If you're always finding you get freezing cold feet, invest in these high-quality thermal high socks this winter. Perfect for wearing underneath your favourite ankle boots or over the top of tights, these socks will instantly offer warmth from the ground up.
Calzedoniwww.calzedonia.com
In classic black or surprising beige colourway, these highly opaque tights feature a soft and smooth thread on the outside and a “thermal effect” design on the inside so they're ideal for keeping warm.
How Does Uniqlo's Heat-Tech Work?
High-street hit Uniqlo has seen searches for its Uniqlo Heat-Tech products soar and has introduced plenty of new pieces to the range. The brand's collaboration with designer label Marni sees its thermal technology included in eight products from the collection. But how does it work? By absorbing and retaining heat from your body, which, thanks to highly-insulating layers made from fibres 1/10 the width of a human hair, prevent warmth from escaping. The fibres are also absorbent, which means they wick moisture away from the body to ensure you stay dry while keeping warm.
What Other Brands Make Brilliant Thermals?
Similarly, ACAI Outdoorwear, whose range of sell-out thermal jeans has gained a cult following since 2020, has just launched new colourways, meaning you can easily incorporate extra warmth into your outfits. Other brands to look out for are M&S, John Lewis & Partners, Sweaty Betty and more, who all have great choices of thermal products.
Hannah Banks-Walker is the Head of Fashion Commerce for Grazia, where she waxes lyrical about midi dresses and tries not to collect any more red lipsticks.