Okay, a comment from yesterday's post from WBL prompted today's title question. WBL wanted to know if I could be stylish in 5 degree weather locales like Detroit. And I happily accepted the challenge!
So how do you exude style and give a nod to fashion when it's so cold you can't think straight, let alone put together an outfit? Here are the tips I live by when pairing style with cold weather climates:
* LAYER, LAYER, LAYER - Oh yeah, did I mention you need to layer your clothes? This step is the first level of defense against freezing temperatures. Tights can be your best friend, especially if you don't like long johns. And if you wear a shirt and a sweater, don't forget to put on another base layer like a t-shirt. (Note: I call this my courtesy three layers.) And don't worry about looking like a stuffed polar bear, feel free to remove some of the outer layers when you reach your destination.
* STYLE + WARMTH - The top layer must be warm and stylish. There are so many coat choices these days, you don't have to choose between cute and warm. And I've seen fantastic outwear options at all price points from Old Navy to Bloomingdales so don't think you have to spend your grocery money on a nice, cozy coat.
* DON'T FORGET THE HAT! - Now that my hair is literally growing like a tree, I can barely get a hat on it without making it look like a seriously impaired afro. So if you don't have a stylish hat option to choose from, wrap your head in a pretty scarf. Add lined gloves and you're ready to hit the cold streets.
I completely agree. Fortunately, here in Birmingham we usually have fairly moderate weather, but due to the crappy lack of parking at The Bank, I usually have to walk anywhere from 2-3 blocks to get to work. Now, when I am crossing those busy intersections, I want those cars to stop and slow down so I can get over, not try to run me down! thus, black leather high heeled boots, a FLATTERING hat (NO TOBOGGANS!), the nice coat that you mentioned--mine is a classic black wool that my mom bought me when I was a senior in high school--black leather gloves--there is no need to schlub it in day glo fleece. none whatsoever. the pickup you feel from looking fabulous is well worth the time it takes.
Posted by: Elena | February 19, 2008 at 10:12 AM
Exactly Elena! More than once, someone has tried to convince me that your appearance is irrelevant when it's cold. I say, "Never!". LOL I think good presentation of yourself is ALWAYS relevant. That philosophy stand for 5 degree or 85 degree temps. Keep making your stylish statement Elena! And we'll both keep working on everyone else! LOL
Posted by: STYLEnosh | February 19, 2008 at 10:50 AM