Ah, to be in Manhattan in the winter! Is there anything more beautiful than the city covered in a blanket of white? As we return from break and resume our hectic lives, the snow seems to slow time and silence our ever-moving acropolis – if only for a minute. Once we do decide to venture out into the snow-covered streets, however, New York women face a dilemma: what on Earth we’re going to wear! Is it possible to protect ourselves from the bitter wind and slush beneath our feet, while maintaining a sense of style?
I used to think it wasn’t. As someone who often ignores weather forecasts altogether in lieu of wearing whatever the heck I feel like, I’m accustomed to sacrificing a bit of comfort for fashion. However, after moving from North Carolina to New York, I realized this is not an option; I clearly didn’t know what cold really meant. Now, when I see women trudging through the snow bare-legged with “light” jackets, I think they look more insane than fashionable. New flash: it’s completely possible to stay warm and remain stylish – you just have to follow a few simple rules.
1. Layers are KeyÂ
Nothing keeps you warmer than a whole lot of layers, and lucky for you, they’re in style this season. Instead of wearing one humungous puffer coat over your top, try a coat, over a sweater, over a button down. This may sound like a lot, but it’s a great way to show off your style by mixing and matching colors and patterns that compliment each other. Layering also allows you to play with different textures, like a fur vest over a cable knit sweater. The best part? If you get too warm, it’s easy to shed each layer as necessary.Â
2. Don’t be afraid of colorÂ
With the onset of winter comes endless black and gray clothing – cold weather tends to have that effect. These colors are sophisticated and easy, and I understand that, but in a sea of black-coat-clad women, there’s nothing wrong with standing out! Adding a pop of color to your wardrobe makes a statement that you’re fun and confident. You can go all out with a bright trench coat, bag, and shoes, Blair Waldorf style, or just put on some red lipstick! The amount of color is totally up to you, but don’t let the snow make you dull and monotonous.Â
3. Snow Boots are EssentialÂ
If you are like me and insist on wearing heels 365 days a year, come rain or shine, this can be a struggle. Trust me, I understand the legitimate fear of flat shoes. However, when there is actual snow on the ground, I also understand the complete necessity for a good pair of snow boots. You may believe that those suede Jeffery Campbell booties will cut it in the slush and ice, but let me tell you how it will really go down (I learned the hard way). 1 of 3 things will happen, or, God forbid, a tragic combination of all of them: 1) your feet will get wet because those shoes are, in fact, not waterproof, and then you will be uncomfortable and miserable, 2) you will slip and fall because your heels do not provide proper traction, 3) you will ruin your favorite booties. Finding a stylish pair of snow boots is entirely doable; they are all over the internet! Get some that are waterproof and preferably lined with insulation of some sort to keep your feet warm. Of course, if you absolutely can’t live without heels, try some no-slip wedge boots like the ones below.
4. Flatter your figureÂ
When we layer on sweater after sweater and top it all off with a big puffy coat, we tend to feel like walking marshmallows. However, there’s a simple way to avoid this Michelin Man conundrum: define your waist. By wearing coats that cinch at the waist, you can keep your feminine figure despite the heavy outerwear. This is especially important when wearing coats that extend past your hips; the coat covers your natural waist and has the ability to distort your shape, making you appear larger than you really are. Another way to deal with bulky layers is by balancing your silhouette: if you have a lot going on up top, try wearing skinny pants or a slim skirt with tights to keep from looking top-heavy. My winter secret is fleece-lined leather leggings – they’re super slim and show off your figure, but are unbelievably warm!
Now go out, and tackle the snow!