Bundle Up With All The Best Thermal Base Layers For Winter

Winter storms are on the horizon, and as any seasoned fashion fan knows, the key to staying warm is to layer—and the equation to any good winter outfit always starts with a good base. Beyond keeping you warm and cozy all season long, with truly top-tier thermal pieces, your winter wardrobe will go wholly unaffected. 

Soft, breathable, and warm, the best base layers for women don’t just deliver performance—they’re also airy and lightweight enough to be layered underneath your everyday looks. Brands like The North Face and Uniqlo have designed top-tier technology that prepares you for any scary single-digit weather you see on the thermostat. Meanwhile, beloved labels like Varley and We Norwegians have created silky styles that feel like a true second skin. 

Although base layers aren’t front-and-center in your wintertime outfits, that doesn’t mean they can’t be flattering and refined. Skims and Halfdays have created functional pieces that are tailored to your body, making you feel your most confident self under all those layers. Ahead of the seasonal storms to come, scroll to see L’OFFICIEL‘s weather-approved guide to the best winter base layers for women.

Known for their revolutionary HEATTECH, Uniqlo’s iteration of their cashmere blend is a winter survival go-to. In an array of colors, this lifesaving top is a winter must in everyone’s wardrobe.

Uniqlo HEATTECH Cashmere Blend T-Shirt, $20, Uniqlo

The North Face x Skims collab brings state-of-the-art technology that is tailored to your body. The Reffina leggings are designed with The North Face’s breathable FLASHDRY™ method and Skim’s contouring elements. Made from recycled polyester in a chocolate brown, this piece makes the perfect base layer, but it can also be styled on its own for a cozy, casual look. 

The North Face x Skims Women’s Refina Leggings, $120, The North Face

Crafted in a light fabric that still manages to keep you warm, Intimissimi’s long-sleeve top will be your staple of the season. Made from a cashmere blend, this piece features a scoop neck and breathable fit. In a classic black hue and thin texture, this base layer can go under any piece without compromising the look.

Intimissimi Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Top in Ultralight Modal with Cashmere, $65, Intimissimi

Ace’teryx bottoms will not disappoint—their high-end technology is perfect for any adventure. Designed from a merino wool blend with TENCEL fibers and nylon for durability, this pair of leggings will keep you bundled up while providing plenty of room to move. Worn as a base layer or on their own, these thermal pants are essential for the snowy days ahead.

Arc’teryx Satoro SL Merino Wool Bottom Women’s, $120, Arc’teryx

Made from a recycled nylon blend in a creamy beige and dark chocolate hue, this thermal features a ribbed texture and mock neck to keep you as warm as possible–plus, the matching set proves to be a chic wintry look all on its own. 

Halfdays Johnson Top, $95, Halfdays

Whether you embrace city life or mountain adventures, Varley’s base layer leggings will be your best friend this season. Crafted from a recycled polyester blend in a frosty blue, these thermal pants are sure to keep you warm while providing plenty of flexibility. To take an extra stand against the cold, consider pairing them with the matching thermal top.

Varley Always Warm Base Layer Leggings 27.5, $108, Varley

When facing the cold, your only desire is warmth, and with the Skims catsuit, it’s never been easier. Crafted from a nylon blend in an icy grey with the season-appropriate Fair Isle print, this thermal base layer is the ultimate fashion girl’s defense against biting winds and freezing temperatures. 

Skims Ski First Layer Turtleneck Catsuit, $198, FRWD

Made to keep you cozy from the neck down, the Splits59 turtleneck top is the missing piece your cold-weather wardrobe needs. Made from a modal blend in an ivory hue with a cocoa-colored detailing along the side, this top is more than just a base layer—it’s a casual, chic piece for even the worst of winter weather. 

Splits59 Jackson Rib Full Length Turtleneck, $108, Splits59

With its fleece interior lining and tailored fit, this Alo top is the ultimate thermal top. Designed to accompany you on any occasion, this breathable yet toasty material makes for a perfect base layer under any jacket or sweater. 

Alo Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturne Long Sleeve, $98, Alo 

The We Norwegian’s leggings are a versatile staple known for their performance. Made from the label’s signature piqué fabric, this pair features a center with no front seam and offers a ultra soft fit. As a base layer or on their own, this ivory color is a top-tier way to wear your winter whites.

We Norwegians Ski Basic Leggings Women, $180, We Norwegians

Adanola’s long-sleeve thermal top is an essential for any closet. With its seamless design, this lightweight and soft fabric feels like a second skin. Its sculpting fit makes it flattering while being breathable, ideal for everyday wear.

Adanola Impact Seamless Long Sleeve Top, $75, Adanola 

The Upside’s quarter zip-up top is a different iteration of what a base layer could look like. Made from a lyocell blend, this seamless piece comes in a black hue with grey detailing on the collar and sleeves. Designed for any situation, this top will be your favorite cozy companion through fair weather and winter storms alike. 

The Upside Seamless Quarter Zip Base Layer Top, $190, FRWD