There is something magical about getting dressed during the winter: the layers, textures, long coats, sweaters, and stylish scarves. Cold weather provides us with the opportunity to experiment with layers in a way that warmer weather does not. While summer fashion can be about simplicity, winter fashion is about intent. It’s about the experimental fun of building an outfit piece by piece, combining warmth with expression. Furthermore, staying warm and being stylish don’t have to be on opposite sides of the road. With the right thought and consideration, winter can be one of the most expressive times of the year.

Layer, Layer, Layer

When layering outfits, it’s important to take note of what will be seen and what will not. For example, a simple long sleeve under your sweater most likely will be out of eyesight. Therefore, it doesn’t quite matter whether it matches or not. The key is to focus on mixing those proportions. You want to start with a fitted base. One that won’t bunch up and cause your second layer to look scrunched up. My favorite move is to tuck my bottom layer into whatever pants I choose to wear. That way, I ensure my bottom layer won’t bunch up and cause my second layer to rise. Your bottom layer is simply for warmth. So pick out your favorite thermal and get ready to move on to the next step.

When it comes to your second layer, there are a few avenues you can go down. You can wear a sweater, a sweatshirt, or even another long sleeve. This is where you can really start to let your personality shine through. A chunky knit adds texture and softness, while a structured sweatshirt adds a polished feel. Your second layer is always the chance for not just insulation but also building the outfit.

Accessories!

Every great outfit comes with great accessories to complement. This is also where you can start playing around with colors. Gloves, earmuffs, scarves, and beanies can make or break an outfit. Opt for colors that complement each other. A bold statement from a scarf can complement an otherwise neutral second layer and vice versa. The same goes for your headwear and handwear as well.

Bottoms

When it comes to bottoms, you can follow the same guidelines as your above layers. You want something fitted underneath and a top layer that allows room to breathe. A nice pair of fitted leggings or fleece tights can be just the right touch to keep your legs warm while also allowing space for a pair of stylish jeans or flowy pants on top.

Footwear

When looking at footwear, it is common to choose practicality over style. Just the other day, I caught myself making the statement, “I don’t care how they look, I was worried about not slipping and falling.” This doesn’t have to be the case! Finding the right chunky boots, knee-highs, or ankle boots offers warmth and structure. Finding a stylish boot with a nice tread can be the difference between slipping in the snow and staying upright. Furthermore, don’t forget to layer those socks. A sleek form-fitting pair on the bottom and fuzzy ones on the top is the perfect recipe for making sure your ten bottom digits stay cozy.

Staying warm doesn’t mean you have to disappear under shapeless layers. It’s about serving function and fashion. It’s finding an understanding that warmth just opens the door for multiple layers of expressive textures.

Edited and Reviewed by Rebecca Price