A question I'm often asked is how to wear leg warmers, a fab winter accessory that got a bad wrap because of one too many aerobics videos in the '80s. Banish those images from your mind forever and hear me out: One of my favorite ways to wear leg warmers is peeking out from underneath tall boots, over leggings, because this way you get an extra layer of warmth and just a glimpse of leg warmer. Cute and understated. Leg warmers also look great worn over flats or ankles boots and either skinny jeans, leggings or tights. To truly grasp the greatness of leg warmers, it's best to see them in action, so I've gathered together 3 photos from FreePeople.com that illustrate chic ways to wear them (click on the numbers for more product info).

[1] Over leggings with flat boots
[2] Over skinny jeans, scrunched into sneakers
[3] Over leggings, pulled over the heel of flat rubber-soled shoes

All three looks are definitely on the casual-cool side. Stick with solids and chunky knits if you're unsure about how to wear your legwarmers. Experimentation is key, however, because there is no one-size-fits-all styling solution when it comes to this accessory.

How do you wear leg warmers (if you wear them at all)?

Many of us will be traveling over the holidays, so I thought I'd share some tips for chic travel style. During a recent flight to Chicago, most of the chic travelers I spotted were wearing boots, a tailored wool coat, a warm scarf, and a cross-body bag. Yes, in my East Coast winter uniform, I fit into this category as well. It's not a look that will turn heads, but I think it's certainly a smart casual way to dress while traveling. Here's why:

Layers are key to keep up with the changing temperatures as you move from the outdoors to the indoors, as well as the uncertain climate on the plane. Start with a cami, add a long sleeve layering tee, then something like a boyfriend cardigan or wrap sweater, and top with your wool trench or peacoat. That's what I wore and I was cozy as a clam.

Flat or low-heel tall boots that you can easily slip on and off as you go through security are warm, comfortable and stylish. Tall shaft boots take up so much luggage space, too, which is why I always wear mine on the plane. They're also versatile enough to go with any outfit you might pack.


A cross-body bag keeps your arms free and secures essentials like your ID and boarding pass close at hand. I recently purchased an amazing modern-vintage cross-body by Fossil at Marshall's for $49 (originally $138). Made from genuine leather, this bag will only get better with time.

A warm, oversized scarf can double as a shawl and adds interest to an otherwise simple, neutral outfit.

A little bit of flair goes a long way--add a knit beanie, fingerless gloves, or legwarmers to show your fab fashion sense. Carefully selected colors can also speak volumes. I went with boring black this season because I got a great deal on my Honee coat at Marshall's, but I saw some ladies sporting taupe, gray, off-white and teal with fantastic coordinating accessories.

Limit jewelry and metal accessories as these will only slow you down. I was stubborn and wore a wide belt with metal grommets, and a ton of stackable bracelets, which I had to remove at the security checkpoint. Also make sure you're not carrying any liquid or gel makeup/beauty products over 3 ounces, as these could get confiscated.

How do you travel in style?