Brrrr…
Flipping through some current magazines recently, I decided that head honchos at fashion’s biggest periodicals must be promoting hypothermia this season. Short skirts, bare legs, sheer blouses – sure, okay, if you live in Arizona or L.A. this wardrobe could be practical and fashionable year round, I suppose.
For those of us trapped in the Northern climes with that wet, puffy white stuff – forget it, we’re freezing. Give me a polar parka or something, Vogue! As cute as they are, those microscopic sparkly shorts aren’t exactly what I’m looking for.
BB Dakota Davina Fur Trim Patterned Coat – so cute!
Though a heavy-duty coat and a pair of functional boots are the essential basics for staying warm and cozy through the winter, the real trick is learning to layer. The fabrics you choose are obviously a big factor in the warmth department.
Wool. Awesome.
I’m just going out on a limb and stating: wool is awesome. Sheep and goats have been keeping people warm for several millennia. Thanks, fuzzy lil’ guys! Somehow, wool still has a reputation for being a scratchy, temperamental fabric. Coarse wools are on the market, but the ultrafine versions, like Merino, feel great against bare skin. And the heavier styles are perfect for throwing over a button-down Oxford shirt or turtleneck.
Elizabeth and James Kimono Elijah Coat (yep, it’s bunnies…)
Speaking of cuddly animals who give their lives to keep us acclimated; I should mention that I, most certainly, am a big fan of fur. Though there are many who disagree, wearing animal skins is the best way to stay temperate when your thermometer is dipping into negative numbers. Your ancestors probably did it – and you should too. You can channel Bette Davis, Lewis & Clark, Kate Moss…the options are endless.
Minnie Rose Cashmere Blankie Wrap – Mmm, cashmere!
A thick, utilitarian scarf that you can actually wrap yourself in (making it more than a simple accessory, my friends) is one of the most luxurious and functional moves you can make. Add some legit mittens or gloves and a fuzzy hat and you’re bundled to perfection. Or ready for a snowball fight.
So, I’ve seen plenty of fashionistas rocking the classic, old-school Sorel boots with their tight denim, but weather-resistant footwear does come in trendier shapes these days. Whether they’re knee-high or ankle-length, sensible boots keep your tootsies snug in the sub-zero temperatures. Feel free to stomp that puddle of slush – your feet won’t know the difference.
Not sexy, you say? Au contraire!
Down jackets and their warmth cannot possibly be overstated. Fuzzy tights can turn summer/autumn dresses into winter gear or be worn under jeans. Silk long-underwear is another secret power tool. There are many more tips and tricks to staying cozy and fashionable – what’re yours?
Winter-hater Daisy Ross is a fashion blogger for Singer22. She prefers a Frangelico-spiked cup of cocoa to keep her warm in the winter, but will settle for five layers of clothing.
I really want the Minnie Rose Cashmere Blankie Wrap. That would for sure help keep me warm. They are predicting a bad winter this year.
It;s funny, but I hate to be bottled up in a coast or sweaters. I will put on a coat only if I really , really have too (I’m in NJ)
Now those boots? No problemo
I really have to get out there before the snows to get a new pair of boots–and warm socks to wear under them and a couple of nice warm sweaters and a new pair of jeans—I lost so much weight that I have nothing to wear this winter!!
Those boots are anything but sexy, but I can personally attest to the fact that there is NOTHING warmer on your feet. I’d rather be warm than look sexy 🙂
Ok I am officially in love with the Elizabeth and James Kimono Elijah Coat it is most definitely something I could see myself wearing x
Layering is my thing, along with nice fuzzy scarves. I’m a huge fan of fake fur, as all the coziness of the real thing plus cheaper and cruelty free!
I have been really surprised at the nature of some of this season’s outerwear, as well. I live in the Carolinas, so I can wear most of it. However, I’m from Minnesota and would be much more bundled up if I still lived there! I love that Minnie Rose Cashmere Wrap; I would totally be rocking that if the temperatures were cooler here right now. 🙂
Tis the season to dress warm. I need to restock my cold weather gear from last year. Thanks for some ideas. Love the boots
I remember being a high school girl where fashion came before warmth, now a gal can have both!
So many cute things to chose from and hey warm is the new sexy!
I know what you mean about magazines not realizing it’s winter. I’m hoping to find a nice crochet sweater that’s maybe light brown/beige. Because it gets really cold here in NJ.
i love everything above lol the boots i need something like that this year 🙂
I need a new coat so bad! My favorite coat is one I found at a thrift shop almost 20 years ago! I am working on scarves and wraps until I find one that speaks to me.
I have to do tights come November/December. I’d be a fool not to wear them. Fashion is lovely, but not at the expense of frigidity!
That first coat is adorbs & looks so warm & comfy! I want!
The Minnie Rose Cashmere Blankie Wrap is beautiful! I want it!!! I dont know that I would wear the boots as they are not my style, but they are cute!
I love how comfy all of these look. We are going to the mountain soon. I wish I would have gotten me a few more scarves.
I could care less how hot I look in the wintertime. I am freezing and want to be warm. Those are some cute pieces you have on display though. I could see myself wearing any of them.
I’d say its too sexy! <3
I am in Florida and still running around in shorts because it is too hot. I keep begging to relocate, but my boys are all kicking and screaming. I understand what you are saying about the magazines not representing the northern winter fashions though. I stopped reading them because they are just not realistic in my opinion as to what normal people even look like.
Well I am in AZ but I still love that second look. The sweater/cardi is awesome
We live in VA and it gets pretty cold here. Wool is the best thing when you need to keep warm and I have many wool sweaters. I love the boots you shared.
I love the patterned coat! Super nice.
I am already so darn cold this year! I will have to check some of these out! I need warmer clothes!
I love the scarf! I needed one like that today it was freezing!
Oh I want that Cashmere Blankie Wrap!! It looks absolutely fantastic and sexy! And oh so warm!
That’s how we are here too, we need to be bundled up. It’s supposed to be very cold in a couple of days. Love most of the outfits on this page. 🙂
I failed to mention in my article that I actually spend most of the winter walking around wrapped up in a blanket. Since childhood. I’m just perennially cold.
Nice to hear the feedback from women of all climates!
The kimono coat is beautiful. I love cashmere too but all this stuff is way to warm for Florida. I wish I lived in a cooler place to enjoy the winter gear.
The first part made me laugh because I was just talking about how ridiculous fashino magazines are with their “go to” items for winter. No way I would be able to wear the items they suggest here in Ohio (not just because of price) but because I would FREEZE!
Super cute Boots and that reminds me I have to look for a new coat, too.. thanks for some great ideas
I love all of the above my favorite is def the black one! so cute!
Thanks for the ideas, silk long underwear are a favorite of mine but cashmere sure sounds wonderful! =D
Like another one of the commenters I hate wearing a coat – would much rather layer up, especially that awesome Elizabeth and James Kimono Elijah Coat!
Love all of teh style and items listed above!!! Fabulous Post! Thanks so much and you had me @ Damn Girl, Your HOT!!!! 🙂