A Winter Look That'll Break Your Sweater Rut

By Marlen @mar_bear_

Ah, the end of January. Many of us have already waved the white flag and found ourselves living in inspired outfits that revolve around thick sweaters and salt stained boots. When the coffee is brewing and the morning light comes in different shades of gray, we find ourselves standing in front of the closet, our face set in determined lines as if we're actually about to choose something pretty. When in reality the fleece lined leggings and wool cardigan are already laid out on the bed. 
I feel you, lady. Sometimes the slush by the bus stop wins and you can't be bothered to reach for something that isn't padded and end-times approved. But, I mean, this isn't a rut that we're planning to be stuck in for much longer. Right? Come on, nod your head with me. Right.
Alright fine, no one's nodding. Put down the Ugg bodysuit and read on to let me prove it to you. 

It's a tad tricky to find the will to look semi-decent during times like these, so I've teamed up with New Old Fashion Vintage to teach you the trick on how not get stuck in a jeans and cable-knit rotation. Amelia, the curator, is from Pennsylvania and knows firsthand how it feels to look outside the window and want to put a blanket over your head. It usually happens in a slow and somewhat defeated manner. Because of that, we took a look at this crocheted maxi dress from her collection and thought, how can we feel motivated to wear this?
The answer, believe it or not, is layers. As long as you have a lot of coziness piled on, you'll feel just fine stepping outside into the biting cold. For example, look at the elements in my outfit. Knits, fur, leather, and hats. The maxi dress was my starting point, and I layered a dark green fisherman sweater on top, adding warmth in both layers and color. I continued to build from there, adding a thick beanie not only for another chance to add color but also to keep my head warm. I opted for a leather backpack instead of a purse to give the look a more casual feel, and to add a heavier element to the outfit, bulking up the delicate features of the dress. Then I layered a fur stole at the collar to display not only a classic, but snowy vibe.  
And what do we find at the end? A winter look that gives the usual uniform a rest, but is just as simple.

PS: Want more winter dress layering tips? Try reading:
  • Styling Tips: How to Wear Over Sized Clothing and Not Drown
  • Styling Sheer Pieces for Fall
  • How to Wear Maxi Dresses When It's Cold
  • How to Make Something Trendy Part of Your Style


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