The cold weather can be a real downer for your style. Sleet, snow, sloshy sidewalks, and freezing temps can cause you to prioritize warmth and functionality over appearance. It’s easy to lean into your cozy, comfortable looks and wear them repeatedly, especially when it drops below freezing. 

As a fashion stylist and writer living in New York for almost 20 years, I’m also guilty of letting my style fall flat during winter, wearing a different rendition of sweaters and jeans day after day. But, to up your style game even when it’s freezing outside, the key is in making smart purchases that instantly elevate your look — without sacrificing warmth. Whether it’s a splurge on a statement winter coat, a new barrel-leg pair of jeans, or just a simple swap of your black beanie for a vibrant-colored one, small lifts can bring high rewards; you’ll look like you put a lot more effort into your appearance, and the compliments will roll in. Here, I’ve rounded up six of my favorite winter styling tips, plus options to shop to elevate your cold-weather wardrobe. 

Stylish Coats

A stylish, on-trend coat is the key to always looking put-together and fashionable during the colder months. (It’s also my top tip when traveling to cities in the winter to ensure your sightseeing pictures are post-worthy.) Because city dwellers spend so much time outside, our outerwear should reflect our style. If you are looking to turn heads when you walk down the street, choose a vibrant pattern like a checked faux-fur statement; or, if you’d rather more neutral look, opt for a classic wool coat in the shade of the year, like chocolate brown. Breaking away from black, New Yorkers’ favorite color, is always rough, so if you can’t bear to do it, go for options with some added interest whether it’s an oversized shape or a mix of textures like some pops of shine.

The North Face The Ruby Down Parka

On-trend Bottoms

What you wear on your bottom half can be a dead giveaway of whether you know what’s in and what’s out. Baggy, wide-leg, and barrel-style jeans have been having their moment for a bit and are still a hot trend. Plus, they allow for room to layer tights or thermals underneath for extra warmth. For those of you who like a fitted look, not only are skinny jeans making a comeback (yay), but leggings are also an option, with shiny faux leather or split hem styles on trend that offer a dressier look for nights out.

Athleta Move Easy Split Hem Pant

Interesting Layers

I’m constantly looking to other New Yorkers for styling inspiration, and what always catches my eye are outfits with interesting layers. Whether it’s a wool coat over a collarless jacket, a unique vest, or a silky skirt under a long sweater, these pieces can step up and set apart an otherwise basic look. And it’s not just for going to work or out for dinner — try the same for your casual outfits running errands or meeting up with friends for a cold stroll. It can be as simple as adding an unbuttoned shirt, a turtleneck, or a cool collegiate sweatshirt. 

Open Edit Bias Cut Maxi Skirt

Eye-catching Winter Boots

If you live in an area that experiences wet, snowy winter weather, owning the correct footwear is vital. In a city where walking is your main mode of transportation, your winter shoes need to be comfortable and functional, not just cute. Luckily, many footwear brands have upped the design of their water-proof and snow-friendly winter boots making finding a stylish option to wear on even the worst weather days a lot easier.

Dolce Vita Simaya H2O Waterproof Platform Bootie

Cozy Sweaters 

Certain sweaters are classic and always in style, like a black V-neck or chunky white knit. They are always good to have in your closet, but having some modern styles is what will make your cold-weather look fresh each year. This season’s sweater trends include cardigans, sporty styles, and sweaters with scarves attached. If you are unsure if you want to completely embrace a trend, stay in your comfort zone with a classic shape in a trending color like pretty baby pink.  

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

Upgraded Accessories

Sometimes it takes adding the right accessories to complete your look. This winter, all the chic street-style snaps were of women who wrapped their chunky oversized scarf around their heads to create a hood. Low effort, big impact — if you have the right accessories. In addition to cold-weather accessories, swap some of your go-to’s for something more unique; get a pair of retro oversized sunglasses made for skiing (so they’ll do double duty) or trade in your work backpack for a sleek tote.

55cube Knit Beanie

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