your winter style guide

this might be a slightly controversial take, but i actually love winter fashion and styling. i know it’s cold — i live in the midwest where it’s extra cold — but i still think you can have a lot of fun with getting dressed, even when you’re bundling up. fall is my favorite season to dress for, and winter feels similar… just with a few more layers and cozier accessories. and just like fall, winter is one of the best seasons to thrift.

so, in this style guide, i’m walking you through my approach to winter dressing — my go-to styling tips, the wardrobe essentials i rely on, what i’ll be thrifting for this season, and some outfit formulas for whenever you need a little inspiration.

let’s start with some ways to stay warm and still feel like you’re wearing an actual outfit. first, layering is everything. start with a base layer, add something warm (like a sweater), and top it with your jacket or coat. personally, i’d rather be too warm than cold — you can always shed layers. and layers aren’t only practical, they add visual interest. try a tee under a sweater for dimension, or a sheer top over a tank. play with mixed textures too: wool with leather, cotton with fleece, knits with something sheer.

the second key is accessories. scarves, hats, and gloves are obvious, but they can add style too. fun socks, a cool pair of glasses (sun or regular), or a bold jewelry piece can completely shift your outfit. makeup and hair can act as accessories as well — try a new lip color, a braid, a ribbon, whatever feels fun.

third, don’t be afraid of color or pattern. you’re not limited to all black in the winter. use accessories if you want an easy starting point — a patterned scarf, a colored beanie — or go bigger with a bold coat or printed pants.

and lastly, sometimes the coat is the outfit. an interesting outer layer instantly elevates even the simplest base. i’m partial to a vintage fur coat in winter, but a leather jacket, colored puffer, or wool trench all work the same magic.

the key to making any outfit interesting is a statement piece, and that goes for winter too. a fun accessory, a cool coat, or even a different makeup look.

now let’s talk essentials. the pieces that make winter dressing feel simpe and effortless:
– base layers (long + short sleeve tees, mock necks, turtlenecks)
– warm sweaters + cardigans (wool + cashmere)
– coats (a puffer, a long wool coat, etc)
– boots (water-resistant if you get snow, plus a dressier pair)
– denim, wool trousers, leather pants
– everyday accessories (jewelry, hats, gloves, scarves)
– tights (for mini skirts + dresses)
– cozy loungewear (for the days you’re staying home)

once your basics are set, that’s when you can add the fun stuff — statement jackets, textured or patterned accessories, unique boots. this is where you really get to play with your personal style.

again, winter is also peak thrifting season, and the best place to find those unique pieces that no one else is wearing. here’s what i’ll be on the lookout for:
– fun coats (leather, fur, wool, etc.)
– leather gloves (chic + practical)
– cashmere + wool sweaters (thrifted is the way to go)
– fleece zip-ups
– cool boots
– bottoms: denim, wool trousers, patterned pants

and for accessories, try small businesses or even make your own! my personal goal this winter is to learn how to knit so i can make my own fun hats, scarves, and mittens. but, if you don’t want to knit, there are so many creatives making beautiful winter pieces.

once you have your winter wardrobe curated, you can start putting outfits together. having a few go-to outfit formulas makes getting dressed easier — especially when it’s dark and cold and you reallly don’t want to get out of bed in the morning.

some of my favorite winter outfit combos to help you feel inspired:
– classic denim + white tee + fun coat (elevate with boots or keep it casual with sneakers)
– midi skirt + tall boots + oversized sweater
– wool coat + sweater + trousers
– mini skirt or shorts + tall boots + sweater or standout jacket (for going out)

so, to summarize a few key winter styling tips:
– layer intentionally
– mix fabrics + textures
– use accessories to add personality
– embrace color + pattern
– let your coat be the statement