What's Your Winter Uniform?

I love winter, but I hate being cold. The simplest way to stay warm and stylish is with what I like to call a "winter uniform" - a few classically chic pieces that can be mixed and matched and worn just about every day, everywhere - ALL winter long.

This winter, my uniform consists of a black wool peacoat (distinguished by antique star-shaped bronze buttons and a colorful satin lining), black knee-high leather boots with a short heel, a black oversized faux-leather handbag, and dark wash skinny jeans. Fabulous gloves and scarves round out the look and add a personal touch, not to mention more snuggly warmth.

Strolling around town this weekend, I noticed I was certainly not alone in my thinking - seems like every fashionable gal was wearing some combination of the following:

• Dark colors: Strategically mixing black, navy and brown is no longer a fashion faux-pas


• Large leather purse and coordinating knee-high boots: Nothing too matchy. Make sure boots are comfy and waterproofed. Big purses are a fashion statement - don't overpack.


• Dark tights: Along with gray, black and navy, deep purple or blue work well, as do textured styles.


• Scarves, especially the pashmina kind are everywhere - and they are fab.


• Black: It's always in style.


• Wool coats: All you need is one great fitting, warm wool coat. Look for one with a belt (or add your own) to create a slimming silhouette. In addition to black, I love wool coats in red or houndstooth.


• Flat or low-heeled knee high boots in dark brown or black leather: Choose wisely according to how much walking you do; pick a heel that can withstand ice and snow.

The best part of having a winter uniform is that all its essential components (listed above) can be purchased at reasonable prices. You also can't go wrong spending a little bit more on pieces you'll wear season after season, say, a black wool coat or sturdy leather boots. Buy inexpensive accessories like scarves, tights, gloves, hats, leg warmers, belts and yes, even handbags, at budget fashion shops like H&M, Forever 21 or Target. These add instant character and renovate your look.

Share details of your winter uniform in the comments.

Here are some pics I snapped to showcase a classic "east coast" winter uniform. The first two photos demonstrate this pretty well.




Looks like these girls were going out; as temps drop, I'm guessing they'll add tights and boots, too...