Cozy Chic Winter Style Demystified

When it comes to outfits that are stylish, cozy, and comfortable, it can feel like there’s some secret code restricting us from really “nailing” our  fall and winter style. I for one am always struggling to find the balance between layering enough, and layering too much. Some days I walk out my door and feel that cold chill right to my core, while on other days I am ripping off layers as I melt under the brisk but beautiful fall sunshine.

Especially lately, Vancouver’s cold snowy weather has really thrown us all for a loop. We’re not used to the snow here, and it’s been an adjustment to say the least!  While there may not be a specific “code” persay, there is an art to layering and cozy chic style and today I am sharing a few of my favourite go-to pieces to create cozy, stylish, and practical daily looks.

Wear Under-Layers

When you’re going out and about and want to stay cozy, one way to ensure you stay warm is to wear under-layers. Under-layers are items you typically don’t see in an outfit, but they keep you cozy – like a tank-top underneath your turtleneck, or nylons under your pants. These extra layers give you that added coziness that you’ll need on those especially frosty days.

Invest in Thinner Layering Pieces

When it comes to layering, invest in pieces that are a bit thinner so that when you’re layering you don’t end up feeling bulky and uncomfortable. While thinner layers aren’t the coziest on their own, when layered they build create very cozy outfits and you can easily take off a few layers if the weather takes a turn for the better, or if you end up heading indoors.

Invest in Knits

There’s no way around it, knits and cozy sweaters are a absolute style staple during the winter. It’s cold, you want to be cozy – you need a sweater. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with sweater jackets like this one I am wearing today. They are a great addition to any outfit, and provide a lot of warm. I’ve been wearing this one in particular almost daily as it works with every outfit, looks very sophisticated, and is very heavy which makes it perfect for these chilly days we’ve been experiencing.

Rock a Pair of Waterproof (and snow-proof!) Boots

I don’t know if there’s anything more uncomfortable than walking around in cold wet shoes. I’ve done it many times – worn a pair of heels or flats that I adore, find that they aren’t water resistant at all, and end up trudging around with freezing cold feet. It’s a recipe for disaster, and for the flu, so this year I decided to think ahead and grab myself a pair of waterproof (and snow proof) boots from Cougar Boots. One thing I love about Cougar Boots is that all their boots are water-proof and snow-proof. They aim to make items that are stylish and practical for Canadian fashionistas so that we can look and feel our best regardless of how the weather is.

Keep a pair of gloves close by

Aside from wet feet, cold hands are one of the most uncomfortable parts of winter. After going out many times without gloves, I can say that I’ve learnt the hard way to always pack along a pair or two in my purse just in case.

 outfit details: Textured Plaid Open-Front Cardi for Women c/o Old Navy, Black Turtleneck Sweater, Hue Leatherette Faux Leather Leggings, Cougar Waterproof Arvida Leather Ankle Boots, ‘New Too Hot to Handle’ Leather Marc Jacobs Bucket Bag