Unsure of what to wear to your festive fete now that the snow has swallowed the sidewalk? Don’t stress over your party prep — FASHION has got you covered.
How to look cute in cold weather outfits: it’s been a struggle since basically the beginning of time. How do you show off your legs without them turning into icicles? Can any heels survive six inches of snow? And can a winter coat ever truly look chic? All important questions, with often questionable results.
But fear not — we’ve taken on your winter woes and found a few game-changing formulas that can apply to virtually any ensemble. The trick? Pick a winter-proof statement piece and build the rest of your outfit from there. Think feather jackets, metallic boots and red-hot wools. Scroll below for a few cute cold weather outfit suggestions.
Feathers
Think black and white is boring? Think again. When paired with feathers and some luxe accessories, it takes the classic colour combo to new heights. Bonus points for layering a white button-up underneath.
LaMarque Deora Feather Jacket
If LaMarque isn’t on your radar, it absolutely should be. The Montréal-based brand just celebrated its 10 year anniversary and winning Womenswear Designer of the Year at this year’s Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards. While you can’t go wrong with any of their jackets, we have a real soft spot (pun-intended) for this feathered garment.
Louis Vuitton GO-14
Upgrade your black bag this season with this rosy Louis Vuitton GO-14. The toasted effect is created by hand, giving it an edgy futuristic look. What’s more, it’s made with padded lambskin so it’ll be buttery-soft for years to come.
Aritzia The Effortless Pant
The hint is in the name — effortless. These viral Aritzia pants are worth the $148 price tag because you can wear them anywhere (and we mean anywhere!) and still look chic. Also, these will be your best friends come the summer months.
Red
Red for the holidays? Groundbreaking. But just because it’s the go-to holiday hue, doesn’t mean you should avoid it. Instead, find more creative ways to embrace it, as seen with this punk-yet-preppy tartan ensemble.
Burberry Check Draped Coat
A scarf and jacket all in one? Yes please! You could even add dress to that list, as the coats makes enough of a statement on its own. Who better to trust with plaid than Burberry?
Mango Clutch Bag with Bow Design
You know the age-old proverb, “If you like it then you should’ve put a bow on it.” Whether it was Aristotle, Queen B or the folks at Pinterest Predicts who said it, doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Embrace the Year of the Girl and carry this little clutch to your next event.
Vivienne Westwood White Neysa Necklace
Only Vivienne Westwood could make pearls punk. While this iconic choker made its debut in the ’80s, it’s had a recent resurgence thanks to TikTok. To make the most of this worthy investment piece, pair it with unexpected casual combinations.
Reformation River Knee Boot
How to wear heels in the winter without freezing your feet off? Boots are the answer. Instead of making your footwear an afterthought, be bold and pick an even bolder colour or texture. This Reformation shoe fits all of the above.
Metallic
Silver has been everywhere this season (thank you, Beyoncé!) and we’re not complaining. One of our fave colour combos is silver, white and ice blue so whether you opt for a monochromatic moment or something more relaxed like jeans and a statement puffer, you’re sure to sparkle.
Moncler Silver Meuse Short Down Jacket
We know, we know — it’s scary to stray from the inconspicuous neutral-coloured puffer. But, there’s perhaps no better way to make a statement than with a statement jacket. Our pick is this festive option from Moncler.
Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Women’s Jeans
Not ready to give up your skinny jeans but too afraid to pick up a pair of wide-legged? A straight silhouette is your answer. Levi’s are always a safe option, and this style is constantly going in and out of stock so act fast!
Paris Texas Silver Snake Slouchy Boots
Practicality be damned — these Paris Texas boots are just straight-up gorgeous. Do they have tread? Nope. Are they easy to walk in? Probably not. But will they make you feel like a million bucks? You betcha.
Gucci Horsebit Chain Medium Shoulder Bag
Getting Y2K flashbacks? The Gucci Horsebit was first made famous in the 2000s, but the style still remains one of the brand’s most popular. We’re quite partial to this metallic quilted leather option.
Beaded
Why just wear one piece of jewellery when you can wear an entire chain dress? Layering is the key to turning this summertime concert staple into a winter-proof ware. Long sleeves and turtlenecks are your friends.
Joe Fresh Turtleneck Dress
While the black turtleneck may have been co-opted by Steve Jobs, that was so 2010s. Celebrate the end of 2023 by embracing the effortlessly cool attitude of the dress equivalent. Sitting in a Parisian café whilst discussing abstract art and underground music is optional.
Rabanne Chainmail Dress
Trust Rabanne to know a thing or two about metallic fashion. True to Paco himself, this new iteration is decadent, opulent and oh-so charming. Try experimenting with mixing metals to take this look out of the Space Age and into the new year.
Kate Spade Perfect Match Matchbox Resin Small Frame Clutch
The Jazz Age will forever be known as one of the most fashionable decades of all time, so why not infuse a bit of that Jay Gatsby glamour into your 2020s outfit of choice. Kate Spade makes it easy with this resin box clutch.
Jenny Bird Ola Bangle
Bracelets are coming back with a vengeance, so why not start investing now? Look for bangles that have an architectural flair to them, like this one from Jenny Bird. Stack a few of them together to really emphasize their unique wave shape.
This article first appeared in FASHION’s Winter 2024 issue. Find out more here.
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