I am going to a semi-formal January wedding in Boston. I want to be warm without sacrificing style. I have a very limited budget because of the holiday season. How can I look cute without being too cold and while staying under $50? —Erin

For winter-wedding attire that won't break the bank, check out Target's Limited-Edition Dress Collection, where you will find 34 styles under $39.99, like the classic Audrey, the festive gold-jacquard Claudia or the vivacious red-satin Taylor.

Three looks from Target's Limited-Edition holiday dress collection.

If you're wondering how you will stay warm, there are a couple things you can do. First off, go ahead and splurge on a long, black, wool-blend coat. You may only wear it once or twice a year, but if you live in a cold climate, it will be well worth the investment. I bought mine at Filene's Basement for around $250 and it was worth every penny (I'm from Chicago, now living in New England, so I don't mess around when it's cold). Pick a clean, simple, classic design and it will never go out of style...something like this:



With a coat like that, you can wear a skimpy sequin cocktail dress underneath without freezing to death. A vintage fur is another route to take if you like. Other winter must-haves include leather gloves lined in cashmere and a cashmere scarf. You can find these on sale at department stores at the end of the season or off-price retailers like TJ Maxx and Marshalls.

It goes without saying that most formal dresses are not warm—a fully lined, floor-length velvet dress may be marginally warmer than say, a slip-dress—but if you're in a heated hotel or restaurant, you should be fine while mingling and dancing. Bring a pretty wrap, faux-fur stole, velvet bolero, or dressy shrug to keep shoulders warm while dining (or if you get seated by a draft).

Something like this sequin shrug will add a tiny bit of warmth and a lot of glamour:



Alternatively, you can just shop for inexpensive accessories that will help you update an oldie-but-goodie LBD (see this post for ideas).

Check out this video for a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming Rodarte for Target collection, created in part by Tavi Gevinson, the 13-year-old blogging sensation behind Style Rookie, and a Chicago native, I might add.

If you're not familiar with Tavi, she is a teen fashion blogger with a cult following who made the scene during New York Fashion Week back in September, attending such shows as Marc Jacobs and of course, Rodarte (she's now buddies with the designing sister-duo). Tavi is the real deal. I would call her a poet, philosopher and artist before I'd call her a fashionista. She is pure creativity. What else can I say?

The highly anticipated Rodarte for Target collection hits stores December 20, but don't forget, you can scoop up four of the pieces before everyone else TOMORROW December 11th at Target To-Go Pop Ups in NYC, San Fran and D.C. Get to the launch of the NYC pop-up bright and early tomorrow, and you will see special guest Rachel Bilson!

This Silence & Noise Wool Band Jacket is $98 at urbanoutfitters.com.


Looking for a less expensive alternative? Try Forever 21's Military Patrol Jacket for $37.80. Click any image to purchase.

As seen on the Fall 09 runways, this Michael Kors oversized chain link necklace costs $700 at Neiman Marcus.


If you've been lusting after the original for months, then you will love this find (I was so excited when I found it!): Get the same dramatic look with Chico's chunky Constannza chain necklace, on sale for $47.25.


Michael Kors also created a gunmetal version of this necklace, which also sells for $700.


If you prefer this finish, try getting the look for less with this Charlotte Russe thick chain necklace, just $11.50. You can click any image to purchase.

I am a newly single 35-year-old in New York, and I'm spending a lot more time going out in the city. But I am stuck in a rut—I usually wear jeans (either boot cut with heels or skinny tucked into boots) with a black top and a statement necklace. How can I mix it up in an age-appropriate way, without being too dressed up, and without freezing this winter? —Brigitte

Toss on a cozy yet stylish sweaterdress when you want to look nice—but don't want to freeze. If you're worried about bulk, avoid chunky knits and turtlenecks, and go for v-necks and 3/4 length sleeve styles. Any neutral will be a versatile choice, but a rich purple, blue or red will make things more fun.

I prefer styles that are fitted, not clingy, which fall just above the knee so you're not overwhelmed by your dress. Add solid or textured tights, ankle booties or tall boots, and you're good to go! If you want to dress it up even more, add a cool belt, pendant necklace or other jewelry.

You can find sweaterdresses for cheap at many stores, but the best selection online right now has to be Victoria's Secret. They have dozens of styles including sale items as low as $19.99. Browse the amazing selection below to get some ideas!