How many winter mornings do you grab your heaviest puffer, throw it on, catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and think, “Ugh, I look frumpy!” With freezing temps and endless layers, it’s easy to assume that staying warm means sacrificing style – but it doesn’t have to! I live in Telluride, Colorado at 9,000 feet where winter is legit cold. And, I grew up in the North Pole – aka Watertown, New York – so believe me when I say I know cold.. Over the years, I’ve perfected the art of staying warm AND stylish in the winter. Now you can too! In this post, I’m sharing my top three simple, style secrets to help you ditch the frump and embrace winter chic!
Huge thank you to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Winter Style Hacks
#1 | Cashmere Sweater
If you live in a cold climate, are planning a winter getaway, or just tend to run cold, a cashmere sweater is an absolute must for your wardrobe! Why? Due to its finer, softer fabric… cashmere can be three times warmer than wool! While a chunky knit sweater might seem like the coziest option, it often adds unnecessary bulk without the added warmth. Cashmere, on the other hand, is lightweight, luxurious and incredibly warm. When shopping for cashmere, I definitely look for a combination of quality and affordability. The versatile black sweater I’m wearing above from Nordstrom, checks all the boxes. It also comes in 18 colors so you can choose a neutral that complements your skin tone perfectly.
Winter Style Hack #1: Skip the bulky, oversized sweaters and opt for high-quality, lightweight cashmere sweaters for maximum warmth without adding bulk.
#2 | Puffer Under Coat
When it’s next level cold – think wind chill of 10 below – staying warm without compromising style can feel impossible. But, here’s a game-changing tip: wear a puffer coat or jacket under a more elegant coat. Bonus points if your puffer covers your bum as the added length provides extra warmth!
The black puffer coat that I’m wearing above by Canada Goose is a definite standout! It’s high quality, packable, lightweight, and incredibly warm. I love the 2-way zipper, which lets you adjust for temperature and comfort. While it’s definitely an investment piece you would have for years to come, I’ve linked a few similar, more affordable options below.
Once you have your high-quality puffer, layer a warm, stylish coat over it. This could be a chic maxi coat, double-breasted style, a classic wrap coat…whatever suits your style and wardrobe. For ultimate warmth and elegance, opt for an over-sized faux fur coat, like the one I’m wearing by Michael Kors. I’m obsessed with its luxe texture, rich, warm color, and over-sized fit – it’s also a fantastic dupe for the Max Mara “Icon” coat. (You can read my full, honest review of the Max Mara Icon coat here.) With these layers, you’ll stay toasty and stylish no matter how low the temperatures drop!
Winter Style Hack #2: The key to staying stylish and SUPER warm this winter season is strategic layering! DO wear a light puffer under your chic faux fur coat
#3 | Cashmere or Wool Blend Socks
Chances are, you never leave the house without grabbing your hat, scarf, and gloves to stay toasty. But one accessory that’s often overlooked and so important: warm socks! In the photo above, I’m wearing a pair of cashmere blend socks that keep my feet extra warm. And trust me, that’s no small feat since my feet are always cold. Cashmere socks are a must-have for the chilliest days!
Winter Style Hack #3: The little details DO matter. Accessories like cashmere socks or gloves aren’t just extras – they’re game-changers for staying warm and stylish!
Winter Accessories
If you’re on the hunt for boots that can handle the snow, sleet, and slush, these Sorel boots are perfect. I can already tell they’ll be my go-to weatherproof boots this season. Sorel has been one of my favorite brands for winter boots for years, and this pair is no exception. They’re waterproof, have excellent tread for icey parking lots and streets, and feature a cool edgy design. The block heels adds some extra height, which I love as a petite woman, but if you prefer a flatter option, there’s a similiar style with a lower heel here.
To finish off the look, I added a pearl-embellished beanie by Tasha that’s cozy and pretty. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of femininity to any winter outfit. And, of course, I couldn’t forget cashmere-lined gloves – they’re super warm and chic. The best part? They’re tech-friendly, so you can check your text messages without taking them off.
What’s the coldest temperature that YOU have ever experienced? And where? For me, it was 50 below in Lake Placid, New York. Please share in the comments below.
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