Winter Must-Haves: Outerwear and Accessories

‘Tis the season for ugly sweaters, unflattering bubble coats and pale skin. I know. But, just because it’s cold outside, that doesn’t mean that you can’t look hot. This winter, I’m all about the following outerwear items:

• The Vest – I love this versatile item because it can be used as outerwear, a cute top or a layering piece depending on the material. What’s hanging in my closet? A hot pink “puffy” vest that I can use for running through the park or running errands and a faux fur vest that’s cute, fun and PETA friendly. Check out Old Navy for pocketbook friendly vests of the bubble, fleece and cargo variety.

• The Winter Coat in a Fun Color – Yeah, yeah, yeah we should all have a good winter coat (wool is my favorite material) in a traditional color like black, grey, or tan. But, this season winter coats have been popping up in a variety of styles (pea coats, mid length) and, more importantly, colors! Just because the sky is grey and dreary that doesn’t mean your coat has to be. Grab a bold color like red or bright green to liven up your winter look. Or try some of the seasons must-have colors like mustard or cobalt (yes – they’re still hot). Visit winter weather retail staple LL Beanfor a variety of coat styles in luxe, cozy fabrics like lambswool. Bonus – these coats come in petite and plus sizes!

Leather driving gloves by Michael Kors (www.michaelkors.com)

• Fierce Gloves in a Luxurious Material – Sure, we can all rock out with our fleece gloves and wool mittens. And yeah, they’re cute and cozy and what not. However, they are not particularly stylish. Lucky for us being warm doesn’t mean we have to lack style. Check out my favorite, Michael Kors, for winters sexiest gloves in materials like leather and cashmere. He even has the fingerless variety for those of us who are addicted to our smartphones.

Some of my other outerwear staples include a warm hat (currently rocking a grey knit beret courtesy of Top Shop circa 2007), a variety of pashmina scarves (seriously, you can never have too many colors) and a fun umbrella (a pink and yellow polka dot little ditty by Totes).

What key pieces do you rock to keep you stylish and warm at the same time?

Your Chic is Showing,