Contrary to what you might expect, I'm not going to list the top trendiest items as your must haves, but rather the basics that you don't want to skimp on. Creating a stylish wardrobe does not mean that everything in your wardrobe has to be designer or trendy. Building a stylish wardrobe is about prioritising and starting with the basics.

Before spending your hard earned cash on your winter wardrobe, go through this list to help you decide how best to spend your clothing budget.

Classic coat:The coat has replaced the jacket. Knee length coats are best as they are not as cumbersome as full length, but warmer than jacket length. Choose a basic colour that can be worn with most of your clothes like black, chocolate or taupe. Avoid double breasted styles as they are hard to carry off worn open, rather select styles that fit in the waist and flair at the hips. A well fitted classic velvet coat is a good option as it can be worn over a blouse with a pair of jeans, a skirt, a dress or trousers for everyday or glamour. A coat is an investment piece that should last you for a few years, so don't skimp on this one.

Knee high boots: These are a wonderful addition to your wardrobe. Find a pair with a heel that won’t leave your feet aching at the end of the day. Once again, choose basic colours such as black or brown. They are great to wear with just-below-the-knee length skirts, bootleg or wide leg trousers, knee length dresses or jeans. I suggest you spend a little more than usual and buy leather if you want them to last a few winters. Avoid suede if you live in a rainy area as they can get damaged.

A skirt:Many women think they can't wear skirts, but it's often because they haven't found the best shape of skirt yet. The A-line or fishtail shaped skirt, knee length or full length, work for most women. Worn with a pair of knee length boots or the right pair of shoes, you can look fabulous in a skirt this winter. If you have many basic colour blouses and tops in your wardrobe, select a skirt in a striking colour or textured fabric to make a statement. If you have mostly colourful tops and blouses in your wardrobe, select a skirt in a basic colour like black, brown or denim that will team well with your existing blouses. This doesn’t have to be an expensive item; however it should fit well and add versatility to your existing wardrobe.

A comfy knit:Since most of us tend to hibernate a little during winter, it's important to add a comfy knit to your wardrobe so you can hibernate in style. I know that chunky knits are trendy, but most of us end up looking frumpish in them. Finer knits layered over cotton v-neck tops are great alternatives and not only can it be worn for hibernation but teamed with a pair of jeans, trousers or a skirt for everyday wear. This doesn't have to be your most expensive purchase, however keep in mind that better quality knits tend to keep their shape for longer.

Something bright:In winter, women are inclined to wear a lot of dark, dull colours. This winter is about adding a splash of bold colour to your dark basics. Since there is an array of colours to choose from like purple, emerald green, red, canary yellow, burnt orange etc, it makes it that much easier. Whether it's a blouse, top, skirt, hand bag or scarf, burst out of the darkness and show off some colour. Beware of spending too much on bright coloured items that you don’t usually wear. Colour is a wonderful way to fashion up your wardrobe, but shouldn’t cost you as much as your investment pieces.

'Till next month, stay warm and look fabulous!

Tracy Gold is Women24's Fashion Expert. Click here to ask her a question.