“I want to be cold this winter,” said no one, ever!
Because let’s be real; being cold is miserable. And, you also don’t want to layer up so much you look like a scary version of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.
Not to worry. I have you covered literally.
Living in Telluride, Colorado at 9,000 feet, I get cold. Winter starts here in November and ends in May (7 months!) We’ve even had snow storms in June. I also grew up in what my husband dubbed, “The North Pole,” aka Watertown, New York. So when I say I know how to survive winter in style… I mean it.
Over the years, I’ve nailed down a few go-to tricks that help me stay cozy without sacrificing style. In this post, I’m sharing my top 3 winter wardrobe hacks — so you can look chic, feel warm, and skip the frump, no matter how cold it gets.
Huge thank you to Saks Fifth Avenue for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you’re traveling this winter, do NOT miss the winter packing essentials in this post.
winter style hacks
#1 | Cashmere Sweaters are THE Warmest!
If you live in a cold climate, are planning a winter getaway, or just tend to run cold, a cashmere sweater is an absolute must for your wardrobe! Why? Cashmere can be three times warmer than wool! While a chunky knit sweater might seem like the coziest or even the warmest option, it often adds unnecessary bulk that makes additional layering impossible.
Cashmere, on the other hand, is lightweight, luxurious and incredibly warm. This 100% cashmere sweater I’m wearing above is the kind of timeless piece you’ll reach for year after year. It’s a splurge, yes—but I love this one so much because it’s crazy thin, like so thin you won’t believe it’s warm, until you wear it and realize it IS super warm. Think: investment piece with major cost-per-wear potential.
Winter Style Hack #1: Skip the bulky, oversized sweaters and opt for high-quality, lightweight cashmere sweaters for maximum warmth without adding bulk.
#2 | Genius Layer Wearing a Puffer Under Your Coat
When it’s next level cold – think wind chill of 10 below (or even colder) – staying warm without compromising style seem like an unwinnable battle. But, here’s a game-changing tip: wear a ultra light puffer coat or jacket under a more elegant coat. Bonus points if your puffer covers your bum as the added length provides extra warmth!
The black puffer coat that I’m wearing above by Canada Goose is a definite standout! It’s high quality, packable, lightweight, and incredibly warm. I love the 2-way zipper, which lets you adjust for temperature and comfort.
Once you have your high-quality, lightweight, packable puffer… layer a warm, stylish coat over it. This could be a chic maxi coat, double-breasted style, or a classic wrap coat like I’m wearing above…whatever suits your style and wardrobe. For ultimate warmth and elegance, opt for an over-sized teddy coat like this one (pictured above). With these layers, you’ll stay toasty and stylish no matter how low the temperatures drop!
I’ve worn this combo in Poland in February and Iceland in November. To say it was cold in both places, is completely understating it. Try freezing!! My magic combo kept me warm and I felt great too!
Winter Style Hack #2: The key to staying stylish and SUPER warm this winter season is strategic layering! DO wear a light puffer under your chic faux fur coat.
#3 | Styling Your Infinity Scarf the Grace Kelly Way
Before you reach for your usual winter trio—hat, scarf, gloves—consider a more elevated alternative: the infinity scarf worn as a hood. This effortlessly combines two essentials in one, offering warmth and an elegant twist that feels both modern and timeless. Think Grace Kelly arriving for lunch in Aspen. You’ll look impossibly chic and unexpected while also staying warm.
Bonus: Styling an infinity scarf? It’s as easy as it gets—no need to MacGyver it or decode complicated wrap techniques on social media videos. One loop, instant polish.
Winter Style Hack #3: The little details do matter. An accessory like a hooded scarf keeps you cozy from neck to head.
Bonus Tip: Your Winter Wardrobe Secret Weapon – Fleece Tights!
Fleece-lined leggings or tights are one of the smartest (and sneakiest) ways to stay warm in the winter without adding bulky layers. They give you that extra insulation you need when the temps drop, but still maintain a sleek, streamlined silhouette—so you can wear them under dresses, skirts, or even jeans without feeling stuffed or restricted. Whether you’re running errands, heading to a holiday event, or just braving the cold in style, these are a winter essential that keeps you toasty and chic.
These Jeans Deserve a Moment
BTW—a moment for these ultra-flattering Mother jeans. I love the dark wash, high rise, and uber wide legs. They also have a 31-inch inseam. Run, don’t walk, if you’re petite. You can see in the photo above, they’re just about dusting the floor on me—And, I’m 5’4” in flat post-surgery sandals, not heels!
Your Warm Winter Wardrobe Starts Here
Staying warm and stylish all winter is totally possible — you just need the right pieces (and a few smart layering tricks). Whether it’s luxe cashmere, a sleek puffer, or an elegant infinity scarf, these essentials will keep you cozy without sacrificing polish.
Because you don’t have to sacrifice style to stay warm this winter…
If you need holiday outfit inspo, check out our gorgeous, mix-and-match holiday capsule wardrobe here.
