Winter fashion can be tricky since it often requires layering, and really, what's more comfortable than a pair of sweatpants and an oversized sweatshirt? You can't wear that out of the house in most cases, but there are some other must-have outfits for every woman's cold weather wardrobe that are a little more public-friendly.
5 Outfits Women Need in Their Winter Wardrobes
Black With Texture
You can't go wrong with all black in the winter, with or without a pop of white or some other color. Black from head-to-toe can get boring though, so it's important to play with different textures. This particular outfit pairs warmth with chic details.
- A slim-fit leather (or faux alternative) jacket reflects a little light compared to the A-line black skirt just below it.
- The black skirt will go with almost any sweater in your closet too, and flows right into those thick, opaque black tights that help keep your legs warm when the situation calls for a skirt.
- Tall suede boots add interest because of their own velvety texture, but if you can't find a pair you like, leather/pleather boots will work here as well.
Try the BLANKNYC jacket from Nordstrom (roughly $100), the Hampshire Ponte Skirt from Boden in black (just under $90), and the Aerosole Suede Riding Boots (about $170) from Macy's.
Naughty and Nice
Here's another chance to wear those tall black boots and black tights (they're a staple!). They add an edge to an innocent dress in a neutral shade. The dress underneath the eye-catching leopard coat could even be described as romantic, so it's perfect for chilly date nights.
Every woman needs a coat that makes her feel powerful and beautiful. In this case, it's leopard print. For you, it may be as simple as a bright red solid shade. The important features here are:
- The length (which will help keep your thighs warm in a dress)
- Warmth without bulkiness
- Deep pockets that can house everything from your cell phone and keys to a pair of gloves
The Belted Leopard Print Coat (regularly priced at around $140) from Macy's is a good choice for wet weather. It's available in sizes XS to L. The Mesh Skater Dress from ASOS (about $146) comes with that perfect amount of innocence to balance out the coat.
Layered Neutrals
Layers are essential in cold weather. Sometimes you may need to layer your clothing in ways you never expected, simply to stay warm. Having neutrals on hand make it much easier to put together an outfit at a moment's notice. Neutral doesn't have to mean boring, nor does it mean everything has to be from one color family (like brown).
- A cute, warm, and fuzzy or knit winter hat for texture and keeping the heat in will go far with a multitude of winter options.
- A dark coat with detailing such as these wooden toggle buttons and fur accents can add interest on top of even the plainest of shirts.
- Black pants, boot cuffs for contrast, and a textured pair of wedge boots will make a woman look stylish even in her casual clothes in the middle of a frigid winter.
- Finish off with a thick knit scarf and warm gloves for proof that winter fashion doesn't have to be complicated to look amazing.
Try Express' Mid Rise Black Jean Legging (about $80), the AEO Chunky Pom Beanie from American Eagle Outfitters (around $30), the Michael Kors Whitaker Wedge Booties from Macy's (about $265), the Nautica Hooded Toggle Coat from Bonton (regular about $280), Clssic Button-Down Fashion Boot Cuffs in ivory from Country Outfitters (about $17), and the Patch Pocket Scarf (about $15) and Cable Knit Convertible Gloves (about $10) from Forever 21.
Simple and Chic
Here's another easy go-to option that will take you almost anywhere, and this one's probably best suited for the early or late days of winter when the temperature isn't exceptionally low. This is a combination you probably already have in your closet though you may have never thought to put on a sweater dress with your jeans (they're warmer than thin cotton leggings!). Depending on your shoe, hat, and jacket choices, this basic outfit could be dressed up or down for almost anywhere - even work, if jeans are permitted.
- Pair your favorite pair of dark skinny jeans with a bright tunic top or sweater dress.
- Throw on a light leather jacket.
- Accessorize with edgy studded boots and an adorable hat that celebrates winter.
To get a similar look, try the Glamorous Comfort Zone Wine Red Sweater Dress from Lulu's (just over $60), ASOS Biker Jacket (about $100), Rock & Republic® Denim Rx™ Berlin Skinny Jeans (about $90) from Kohl's, the North Face Women's Fuzzy Earflap Beanie in Vintage White (around $40), and the Kennel & Schmenger Noir Stud Combat Boots (about $330) from Zappos.
For Truly Casual Days
There are some days in winter when you need something that falls one step between pajamas and something you'd wear to work. This type of outfit only needs a warm winter coat to keep even warmer on truly chilly days.
- Wear a knit sweater made from soft, bulky yarn with sleeves that extend past your wrists to keep your hands warm.
- Pair that with well-worn jeans or jeans that are as comfortable brand new as they would be after years of wear.
- Finish the look with a pair of cozy fleece or suede boots with lining designed to keep your feet warm but not sweaty.
The boots don't have to be Uggs, though they are still popular and fit the requirements. You can just as easily pick up a pair from another brand for less in the department store. Just be sure you can tuck your jeans into them so you stay as warm as possible from head to toe.
Try the Free People Pullover (regular $98) from Nordstrom, the J.Crew Boyfriend Jean in Shelton Wash (regular about $135), and the UGG® Australia Women's Lattice Cardy Sweater Boots (around $150).
Winter Fashion Can Be More Than Functional
If you feel like you've fallen into the trap of erring on the side of frumpy in favor of staying warm, that's totally understandable! If you're craving more fashionable choices to get you through the toughest season of the year though, know that they're out there. You don't have to go broke shopping for them, since many of the pieces are staple items that can be worn several times per week, year after year.
