Outfit Details:
Coat (Anthropologie), Blouse (Express), Jeans (American Eagle), Booties (Dolce Vita), Leg Warmers (Abercrombie & Fitch), Mittens (Sundance Catalog), Starburst Necklace (House of Harlow), Gold Chain Necklace (H&M)
With the holidays over and the new year upon us, it seems as if the weather has only gotten worse, making getting dressed in the morning even more difficult. This winter being a particularly warm one to start has led many of us to toss our winter coats to the back of our closets. Opting for lighter jackets or heavier sweaters, it seems as if our attempts to prepare for winter have only put us more behind.
I for one refused to break out my puffy, winter coat until after the new year, hoping that by doing so I would postpone the apocalyptic snow that would soon come. With those single digit temps upon us and the snow seeping into our shoes, dressing stylishly appears to be the furthest thing from our minds.
I have had so many people mention to me that this particular time of the year is the hardest to dress for. During these next two months, we feel as if we’re being forced to cover up in winter-ready gear all the time. Well let me tell you… it’s still possible to flaunt your personal style and stay warm during this rather gloomy season.
The first order of business: Invest in a couple statement jackets that will get you through the winter in style. This year I have accumulated more jackets than I know what to do with, but they’ve surely come to good use so far this winter. From the sherpa jacket I found at Urban Outfitters, which was featured in my last post, to a fleece-lined peacoat; the options for dressing in style are endless.
Now, don’t feel like you need to go out and buy the most expensive jackets just to be considered “in style.” That’s not what personal style is all about. The jacket that I’m wearing today was on sale for $9.95 at Anthropologie! I was totally freaking out when I found it and I just couldn’t pass it up.
What I’m trying to get at here is that when I say to invest in a couple jackets for winter, don’t feel the need to break the bank doing it. Check out your local thrift store like Avalon Exchange, or even better, dig into the back of your closet for any ~vintage~ jackets you forgot you had.
With the abundance of salt on the roads and sidewalks, it’s so important to prioritize what shoes you will be wearing out in this weather. Salt is absolutely horrible for any material of shoes, and I’m sure all of us have ruined a pair or two at some point because of it.
My best advice is to opt for a leather boot that will withstand the harsh winter. Ensure that you are spraying your boots with some sort of weatherproofing spray so that they don’t get ruined. My favorite pair of boots to wear during this time of year is Doc Martens. If you want to invest in a really solid pair of boots that will last you for years, get a pair of these!
I just want to take a second to mention how important taking care of your skin during this time of year is. Along with taking care of your clothes and shoes this winter, you should develop a skincare regimen to keep your skin moisturized. Each day, you’re exposing your skin to harsh winds and blisteringly cold temperatures. Creating a moisturizing routine for morning and night is critical to ensure your skin stays healthy and soft. I swear by Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion. I’ve used it for probably ten years and it truly does keep your skin at its best all throughout the year.
Back to styling… don’t feel like you’re forced to dress a certain way just because of the temperature outside. Of course it will always play a part in what you decide to wear, but don’t abandon your personal style because of it. Layers will be your best friend, I promise you that. If you don’t want to wear your puffy, winter coat one day, then don’t! Pair one of your favorite lighter jackets with a long sleeve shirt, sweater and a scarf and you’re good to go!
Although winter can be really unpleasant, it’s still one of my favorite seasons to dress for. I absolutely love being able to wear big coats and chunky sweaters. If you take anything away from today’s post, please consider purchasing a warm pair of gloves. Honestly, as long as you have a pair of gloves in your pockets or bag, you’re set for the day. Whether you’re going out on the town with your friends or going to the gym, carrying a pair of gloves with you at all times will make the world of a difference!
So, the next time you decide to throw on your puffy, winter coat and snow boots, remember this. It’s possible to flaunt your personal style and be warm doing it by utilizing three items: A coat of your choice, leather boots that have been weatherproofed, and a cute pair of gloves.
Until next time!
Stylishly Good Vibes