The Cold Post

It’s COLD!

Yes, in light of recent weather events… IT.  IS . COLD!  So, what is a guy or gal to do when you want to look good and the temps are sub-zero?  Is it possible?  I remember I used to think my outfit started once I took off my coat or jacket.  Like, the coat was just a functional thing, keeping me warm and dry.  My hat, gloves and scarf were just the same, just functional.   Blah!

Now, I step out in a coat or jacket that IS the outfit most days.  The hat, gloves and scarfs are winter time accessories that I treat as I would a fashionable pair of earrings or a necklace.  They complement the coat or jacket and as a bonus the clothing garments underneath as well.

You may think like I once did, that the coat doesn’t matter when it comes to making a fashion statement.  But, au contraire, the coat is just as important when it comes to dressing your human canvas!  Here are some tips to bringing the fashion outward while showcasing your swag in temperatures colder than a polar bear’s toenails.

The COAT:

Start with a statement coat that is both warm and flattering to your figure.  That may be an A-line coat, one that fits and flatters or a straight trench.  Play around with different lengths too.  For extra warmth pick one with the highest wool content that’s within your budget.  Good wool retains warmth and can provide a great tailored appearance.

If you’re female and you choose a puffy or down coat find one with a tailored or belted waist line so you don’t look like a middle school student.

Color is great to experiment with in a coat. Too timid to try a bold red?  Go with burgundy.  Greens are nice also. Kelly green is a good transitional color from winter to spring and you can go festive with it during the holidays by pairing with a red or white scarf.  Blues, purples and other jewel tones can also do wonders.  As always, the traditional camel colored wool coat is chic and can be styled with colorful accessories or black/white.

The SCARF, HAT and GLOVES:

Here is where you can get really creative.  If you haven’t already, start a winter accessory collection!  Now is the perfect time to catch some end-of-season sales.  Your winter time accessories don’t necessarily have to have the color of your coat in them.  Think complimentary colors!  If you have a royal purple coat, pair it with a green scarf.  Have a camel colored coat?  Pair it with an orange or red.  Don’t’ be afraid to play with patterns as well.  Choose colors that are commonly found in your wardrobe and now you have multifunctional accessories!  You can utilize your scarf after your coat is removed, perfect for when you are in a chilly office or if you want to run into a mall sans coat.  Walla!  Now, go on, venture out in this artic chill and remember to dress your human canvas…warmly.

 

TNR for Ruth Ellen