Beauty Secrets: 5 Fashion Musts This Winter
Don't let the cold weather cramp your style! 5 ways to look good while staying warm.
The world is made up of two types of people: those who love the change to cooler weather and those who don't. I am most definitely the latter – “better hot than cold”, I always say! But the seasons must change and your style doesn't have to suffer. As a matchmaker and style consultant, I hear from lots of women they don't know how to look and feel fashionable once the cold weather hits. Here are my tips for looking your best all the way ‘til spring while staying toasty warm!
1. The Structured Coat
It's hard to feel like anything other than a blob in a blob of a coat. A good cold weather coat can be an investment, but it's an investment worth making. A coat should fit your body, no matter your size. Even a down coat doesn't have to make you feel like the Michelin man. Look for slim-fit down coats, preferably ones that are belted or tapered at the waist.
TIP: Have a great coat and no belt? Don't fear, feel free to use any thick belt for your coat—there's no law that says you can't!
2. The cashmere sweater
Cashmere can be pricey, but the warmth and luxurious feel make it worth the investment. The warmth of a good cashmere sweater is comparable to the warmth of a thick wool one, without all of the bulk. Warm, soft and stylish? Sold!
TIP: Whether you spend $50 or $500, your cashmere will start to pile. A quick way to remove those unsightly nubs is to use a nail file to rub them away.
3. Scarves
If you're like most people, your winter outerwear is a neutral, muted color. Which is the perfect backdrop for a beautiful, colorful scarf. Scarves can make all the difference in keeping you warm (I carry scarves with me all year long—even lightweight ones in the summer to combat against frigid air-conditioning) and they're an easy and affordable way to brighten up your outfit. Try some bold patterns and bright colors.
TIP: A super-long scarf can work as an extra layer underneath your coat—wrap around your neck and strategically place the long ends on your body before you zip up!
4. The Best Boot
One of my consolations during the cold months is that I can wear my favorite boots. Boots can also be an investment, but they are not only practical for keeping you warm, they can make your whole outfit. I particularly love an over-the-knee boot, which enables me to keep wearing skirts and dresses, even when it's freezing out.
TIP: Knee-high or even thigh-high socks (check out the selection at www.americanapparel.com) are a great layer under tall boots.
5. Layer Up!
Layers are not only the best way to stay warm, but they're also a great way to keep your outfit from being thick and bulky. Wear a top that you love and put a cardigan or cashmere sweater on top, then lose the sweater when you're inside where it's warm. If you don't have a cardigan you can wear as an extra layer under your coat, get one now! It'll prevent you from having to wear nothing but thick sweaters from now 'til March.
TIP: Cold is not sexy. Don't be that woman freezing in a skimpy outfit without a proper coat in December. Cover up that skimpy outfit when you're outside with some appropriate layers!
Stay warm (and chic)!
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