Along with timeless seasonal staples like trench coats, a sturdy black Chelsea boot, the cozy sweater dress, and a crisp pair of skinny jeans, this year’s winter outfit ideas are replete with new trends that can make your look feel fresh. Like last season, we’re still seeing a lot of plaid, innovative denim, and, yes, even dad sneakers.
While we love winter fashion, it does have one setback. Like all frigid times of year, our bodies are still adjusting to the chilled air. And though the dropping temperatures aren’t going to shake our daily routines, the weather adjustment period is still enough to throw us into a confusing phase of not knowing what to wear. You might feel like you’ve got to Poshmark the entirety of your wardrobe and swap it for something new, but trust us: The problem isn’t your closet, it’s a lack of inspiration.
When it comes to building outfit ideas for transitional seasons, remember those timeless cold weather staples we all love so much (boots, jeans, scarves, etc.). Make those the bases for each of your seasonal outfit ideas, then bring in a few key trends to keep things fresh. And, of course, follow this golden rule: layer, layer, layer.
For that perfect winter day: You know that picturesque day, maybe at the end of February, when you wake up and the snow has finally dissipated? The day when you just want to get out of bed and basque in that small ration of sunlight? This is the outfit you wear.
For that rainy day: Those rainy winter days will come without fail, and unlike summer thunderstorms, these ones pretty much suck. With sloshy snow making the ground slippery, your outfit needs to be practical and comfortable. Looking good won’t hurt, either.
For that lazy day: We’re dead in the middle of winter and you’ve already gone through your staple rotations of cozy knits and are quickly running out of outfit ideas. You wake up to the falling snowflakes, which once looked so miraculous. Instead of that urge to jump out of bed and into a pile of snow, the chilly air just makes you feel a bit lazy. This look is the one you wear for those moments when you want to snuggle up with a cup of tea and a good book—or more realistically, Netflix.
For that day when it’s snowing like crazy: These are the days you get more nostalgic for summer, for any day when you could step outside without the sharp, painful snap of cold air and flicks of snow on your face. To beat the unbearable cold, pick your layers strategically.
For that winter night out: Just because the weather is cold doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for warmth. For your next big night out, try skinny jeans, a playful top, and the ultimate winter staple: ankle boots.
For that unseasonably warm day: Once you’ve broken out that puffer, it’s hard to remember how you used to dress when the weather was warmer. But those random 65+ degree days do happen. And when they do, wear this.
For that freezing cold Sunday: When it’s just too cold to even think about stepping a foot out of the door, gather all of your friends and have a wine and movie night. But, just because you are indoors doesn’t mean you have to wear sweats. Upgrade your PJs with this cozy ensemble. It’s casual, but we made it fashion.
For that winter date: For a big first date, or even a casual romantic dinner with your significant other, it’s always fun to dress to impress. Add fun layers to your classic little black dress for a major seasonal upgrade.
