By: Katelyn Lam
When the weather drops below 40 degrees I tend to feel that I have to sacrifice my style just to be comfortable and warm. However, this winter I’ve discovered many new ways to change and improve my winter style while staying warm and cute! Layering, accessorizing correctly and chunky knits are the key to making sure I look cute in the cold.
Layering is so important, especially in the harsh NYC winter. A few of my personal layering staples are the Aritzia divinity romper, fleece-lined tights from Amazon and any comfortable black long-sleeve. I love wearing my divinity romper to class under sweatpants or jeans because it is the perfect layer for warmth on a windy day. It is not only super comfortable but keeps my body heat in. It is also the perfect top base and I can easily throw on a sweater/sweatshirt and a puffer jacket.
Another amazing layering hack is investing in a nice pair of fleece tights. I love wearing skirts when going out, but having my bare legs exposed or plain tights ensures that I will be shaking in the cold. I recently purchased a pair of sheer-looking fleece tights and now I can wear any skirt comfortably. I used to dread wearing wide-leg jeans due to the wind flying up, but the tights are lightweight and I can easily throw them under any pair of pants.
Lastly, any comfortable long-sleeve top is a must-have when layering in cold conditions. I like to even wear a long sleeve under my sweaters to tuck them into my pants so no wind flies up. A good quality long sleeve is such an important closet staple because it is a universal piece for fall, winter and spring weather.
Accessories add so much class, style and warmth to any outfit. A soft colorful chunky scarf, soft tech gloves and headphones are a few accessories that have changed my winter wardrobe. In winter, I tend to wear more basics and neutral colors. A fun colorful scarf adds a pop and dimension to my all-black outfit. It also blocks out wind and keeps me warm and cozy.
Gloves are such a staple and having a cute pair of regular gloves or even fingerless knit gloves helps you stay warm and always look cute. I have two pairs of gloves I rotate between. I love my normal knight pink gloves that have a special section on the finger so I can easily use my phone to text or use directions in the cold. In addition, having a pair of fingerless gloves adds style to an outfit. It gives you a little warmth and lots of accessibility especially if you’re running errands and don’t want to have to keep taking on and off your gloves.
Lastly, headphones have been a new addition to my accessory game. Not only do they give off “it girl” energy, but they also keep your ears warm. I am obsessed with my Beats headphones due to them being sleek, trendy and comfortable. They also double act as earmuffs!
Another important part of looking cute is having a nice variety of chunky knit sweaters. In my closet, I have a variety of black, gray and white scoop and turtleneck sweaters in addition to a few colorful patterns, prints and designs. The basics can easily be dressed up or down, layered for colder weather and worn normally for the fall/early spring. These sweaters add texture, style and of course warmth to my look. One of my favorite outfits is a black chunky cropped turtleneck sweater, medium wash baggy jeans and black heeled boots. Classy, cute, comfortable and warm, this outfit never fails for any occasion or even putting some more effort into an outfit for class!
Overall, there are so many ways to look cute in the cold and keep your sense of style year-round. My best tips are to layer, accessorize correctly and wear warm chunky knits. No matter what the season, the most important factor in fashion is to feel confident in whatever you wear. Looking cute in the cold is achievable and fun for everyone!