"Do you know where I can find a fur vest? Every time I find one that I like online, it is out of my size or completely sold out. I'm looking for a light brown-ish one that I can layer over plaid, denim, everything! I'm not looking to spend more than $100." —Sarah

Without hesitating, I would get this Pins and Needles faux fur vest that's now just $49.99 (down from $79) at urbanoutfitters.com. It comes in brown or black and I'm pretty sure it's the perfect faux fur vest. The cut is super versatile so you can pair this vest with button down shirts and jeans or over a boho dress with boots.




{Shown above: Fur vest style inspiration via Wendy's Lookbook, Jessica Alba on Zimbio, Bows and Sequins.}

So my friend and I are taking a long girls weekend in NYC in February, and I'm SO intimidated by the "fashionista" status of that city! What should I wear so I don't feel like a fashion dud? More specifically, how do I look stylish going out (but also warm?!) —Mackenzie

I can totally relate because I feel the same way nearly every time I head into the city. Those city dwellers have it so good: The world of shopping at their fingertips, from luxury labels to the best thrift stores. And inspiration surrounds them, the architecture, the art, the PEOPLE! New Yorkers are schooled in style every day of their lives just by walking around and looking around with their eyes. And when they gather, whether at work or with friends, the learning process continues..."Where did you get that?" "Oh, look at what she's wearing!"

So how can we keep up? The good thing is that style is not uniform in New York so don't think you have to look a certain way (ahem, like Olivia Palermo). You can totally be yourself. But of course you want more concrete information than that.

What I've noticed about really stylish people, especially NYC bloggers, is that they rely on certain statement pieces - especially during the winter - to do the work for them. Think faux fur, eye-catching shoes and fabrics, and unique silhouettes. Just a single where-did-you-get-that-piece can pretty much carry you through any situation.

Let's look at some examples. Take this coat from Topshop (a store you will absolutely want to visit when you're in town!) - that bold fur collar and designer cut will do all the legwork for you, just have the confidence to wear it!

Topshop Faux Fur Collar Coat

I absolutely adore chunky sweaters, but I am allergic to wool (even cashmere!). Do you have any suggestions or ideas of where to look for non-itchy chunky sweaters? —Meg

I have trouble finding chunky sweaters in general, too, so when I got your question, I headed to the mall to see what I could find. After an extensive search, I found the best selection of chunky and cozy sweaters under $30 at Forever 21. Yup, that's right, Forever 21! You wouldn't think they'd deliver substantial winter knits, but they do. I ended up buying three sweaters that I've practically been living in. Personally, I prefer a blend of wool/angora/cashmere and cotton/acrylic for warmth but I totally understand your need for synthetics that won't irritate the skin. I'm super sensitive to wool as well and always layer any wool over a long sleeve tee or button-down collared shirt. Having said that, Forever 21 had a great selection of sweaters made from acrylic, which is surprisingly warm and can be very soft to the touch.

Another place you'll want to check is ASOS.com - a blogger whose style I really admire, love Maegan, gets a lot of her chunky sweaters there at amazing prices (under $30!). See this post for inspiration.

Okay, now for some online finds!