The challenge in Winter is trying to stay cute while also staying warm and dry. I don’t know about you, but I sometimes struggle with feeling like there is just no way to look good without looking bulky. Remember Ralph’s little brother?
My # 1 tip is to choose layers that are less bulky but naturally generate a ton of warmth like cashmere, wool, flannel, and silk. Yep! Silk is amazing in insulating the body.
Depending on where you live and what the winter season is like you for, you’ll either add thinner layers to this outfit or remove a few.
Take a peek at a few of the pieces I’ve rounded up for you this week. Remember, it’s not about buying retail per se. It’s about finding quality no matter where you shop. I am forever committed to the thrift store and consignment shopping. So if you like the look of what I’ve put together and don’t want to purchase it retail, consider hitting up the second-hand shops!
Do what works best for you always!
one / / Rouje Sabina Black Jeans
Black jeans are so classic and will be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe without a doubt. Although I love skinny jeans they can be hard to layer with if you live in a fridged climate. And they don’t necessarily provide a lot of warmth because of the thickness of the denim.
With a classic cut like this, you can easily wear tights underneath! These jeans are 100% cotton and made in small quantities so there isn’t a huge impact on the environment.
I love this French label, Rouje, from Model and “It Girl”, Jeanne Damas. I think this line is smart because she’s taking classic cuts and styles and copying them for a new generation; totally inspired by Jane Birkin and thrift store finds from the 70’s.
This brand is all about being sexy, classic and simple while still being discrete.
two / / Everlane Cashmere Square Hoodie
With one thin cashmere sweater, you can easily stay completely cozy.
In fact, this kind of cashmere sweater can be worn on its own or with a silk camisole underneath to add even more insulation.
I like the style of this cashmere hoodie from Everlane.
There’s something playful about having a hoodie, which is normally made from spun cotton, in lush cashmere. This sweater also comes in black and pink.
three / / J. Crew Matte Chelsea Rain Boots
Rain boots saved my life again and again when I lived in Chicago. The rubber in and of itself isn’t great at keeping your feet warm. But! When paired with a thick wool sock and/or tights, your feet stay both warm and dry.
Now that I live in Tennessee, I hardly have to worry about my feet getting soaked from the snow or my shoes getting damaged from salt on the sidewalk. But still, rubber boots, like these from J. Crew, will work well in Winter and in Spring.
That’s why I’m a huge fan.
four / / Muji French Wool Mix Duffle Coat
A high-quality wool coat with non-synthetic lining will keep you so warm, especially when layered with a cashmere sweater like the one above.
I think this toggle coat from Muji is so adorable and classic. But it’s also very well-made with a heavy 80% wool outer shell and a 100% cotton body lining. The pockets and hood are what make this a winner!
five // Muji Non-Itchy Wool Stripe Beanie
How hard is it to find 100% natural materials these days? Very hard. So whenever I stumble upon a brand that consistently uses 100% natural fibers, I jump for joy!
This Non-Itchy Wool Stripe Beanie (hooray for non-itchy) is also from Muji and is sure to keep your entire body warm. My mom always said, “Don’t let the heat escape from your head!” and “Don’t leave the house with wet hair!”
Thanks, mama.
In conclusion
Layering is very easy and is the perfect way to stay stylish without looking or feeling too bulky. Stay warm and dry by selecting well-made, all natural-fiber garments that are great for insulating. That way, if you get overheated once you come indoors, you can take a layer off.
Let me know if you have any other tips for layering in the Winter! I’m all ears. Oh! Earmuffs. That would a great item too. 🙂
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I love the idea of wearing 100% natural fabrics, but it is winter in Chicago and I have a newborn (which means lots of shirt laundering from spit-up, even in taking care to use burp cloths). The thought of making laundry any more complicated (wool, cashmere) or ironing (linen) is more than I can bear. Any suggestions for natural fabrics that can take the wear and laundering necessary for moms of young children?
Yay! I love Chicago. I lived there for 8 years and miss it so much. Congratulations on your newborn! I’m a huge fan of silk, cotton, and flannel.
All of these fibers really do wash well. I never dry clean or iron anything. I just wash everything on cold and hang dry. Boom. Done!
With silk you really can throw it in the wash and hang dry it. It also spot cleans very well. I’ve had coffee, dog barf, and turmeric on a single silk shirt I own and she’s still going strong.
Cotton blouses or shirts like chambray and denim would be amazing options for you. Even linen is great. I never iron any of clothing. In terms of sweaters, I would definitely recommend looking into cotton which you can machine wash. I know J. Crew, Everlane, and Patagonia make cotton sweaters every season.
I hope that helps! You rock!
Bri
Where is a good place to find silk camisoles?
Hey there!
I like to shop at thrift stores for things like this because never know what you can find. I found a beautiful J. Crew Silk cami at the thrift store for less than $2.00. But I would also look at brands like Everlane. But I like these from Paradise Silk. You can get them on Amazon for under $30.