Those wintery mornings where it feels too cold to put out a foot from under the cover, let alone your entire body, seem to have dispelled all the joy of getting dressed. Rather than leisurely perusing your wardrobe, there's the tendency to put on the first (and warmest) things we find, and bundle it all on top of each other. But when the task of staying both warm and chic seems impossible, there's one overlooked accessory that reigns supreme - the humble scarf.
A scarf, particularly a cashmere scarf, can do a lot of the legwork when it comes to staying warm, and one under-the-radar brand does them better than most. London-based label Saint + Sofia has made a name for itself with accessories, knitwear, coats and even cowboy boots. The star of the winter line-up however, is the Nora Check Scarf, which features a heritage-inspired check pattern in a rich orange, black and cream that won't look out of place during a weekend in the countryside or slung over a longline coat on a morning commute to work.
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This scarf offers the perfect colour combination of brown, cream and black, making it an easy accessory to throw on over your already perfected outfit. Perhaps the best part about the Nora Check Scarf, however, is the fact it's handmade using only the cosiest wool in Lake Como, Italy.
Add to the Nora Scarf's list of credentials its soft wool composition, which makes the scarf indulgently warm without feeling too heavy or bulky, and the fact its elongated shape and fringe trim makes it endlessly versatile. Loop it tightly around your neck for your frosty morning commute, turn it into a headscarf, or style it long with a leather trench - it's a true winter multitasker.
It's not just the Nora Scarf that's causing a stir either, Saint + Sofia designs collections that are a masterclass in cold-weather dressing - including cosy knitwear, tailored coats, beanies, bags and more scarves (including a particularly great cream cashmere number that's already caught my eye). Ultimately, it's these pieces that will make getting dressed on freezing mornings not just bearable, but actually enjoyable.
Shop: More Winter Dressing Essentials From Saint And Sofia
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If you're looking to add a little more luxe to your current scarf collection, this cashmere scarf is a great option. Containing 100% cashmere, the scarf will envelope you in softness like no other. Plus, at the bottom there's a very subtle Saint + Sofia embroidered logo.
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Another influencer-approved style is the Rock & Roll Scarf, which as you can imagine has a slightly more punk edge than any cashmere designs. However, made with a blend of wool and alpaca yarns, it's still as deliciously soft as other Saint and Sofia designs.
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A brand new addition to Saint + Sofia bags, the Rylee Bag is made by hand and finished with a classic half-flap design. The shearling makes it feel like a more stylish addition to any outfit, and on the inside you'll find one large compartment and one zipped small pocket.
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Ask any fashion editor - a cold-weather essential is a great cardigan as it is perhaps the most versatile knitwear you can own. This one, in fact, offers even more styling opportunities thanks to its classic fit that means it can be worn as a cardigan, or with the buttons twisted to the back to create a jumper. Style with jeans and chunky boots.
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Again, another ingenious design from Saint + Sofia, as this is a cashmere jumper that can be switched between styles. Hear me out - wear it with a classic crew neckline and pair with jeans, a puffer jacket and trainers, or add the rolled neckline and style with a satin midi skirt and kitten heels.
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If you're on the hunt for the ultimate winter coat that will take you through this winter, and the next ten, this is the one. With a double-breasted design, check pattern and two flap pockets, the Hampton Coat is one in which we could imagine Kate Middleton wearing for one of her royal engagements.
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Looking for a new work or everyday bag? The Stella Tote is a best-seller for Saint + Sofia, thanks to its roomy interior and on-trend quilted detailing. Trimmed with leather and topped by two handles, this bag is one that will easily sling over your shoulder, even when it's full to the brim.
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The Odette Coat is another piece of outerwear that has both practical and polished features, like its tonal buttons, storm flaps and deep pockets. With a belted waist that means you can really snuggle into the coat during cold snaps, this coat is made from the softest Italian wool for added cosiness.
Main image credit: Instagram/@tammy_personal_stylist, @swedishgirlinlondon, @doorwaysanddresses
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look - yes, she can tell you exactly where a specific coat is from. When not writing, shopping or scrolling Instagram (find hers here), Gemma will likely be dreaming up her next holiday (and what she's going to wear).