Women's Winter Style Guide

Winter can be the cruelest season to stay fashionable. Why does it have to be a choice between wearing something stylish or wearing something warm? This season you don't have to abandon your style, just follow a few tips like layering up, accessorizing with items like gloves and scarves, and buying clothes in heavier fabrics such as wool,  polyester  and fleece,  and water resistant fabrics like nylon.   Read our guide below to learn more! 

Winter Basics

Stock up on a few of these pieces in your closet and you are sure to have a functional and fashionable winter wardrobe. Keep in mind that many of these pieces can be paired with multiple items and create several outfits.

Turtlenecks  These come in a variety of fabrics from thin cotton (perfect for layering) to chunky wool  (ideal for long hikes). Synthetic fibers  can be smart for cold-weather outdoor sports. A wool turtleneck can be worn under a suit and still look stylish.	Wool Skirts  Wool is a timeless fabric. It resists wrinkling and has the natural ability to breathe. Consider a basic shape skirt (knee-length flatters most figures) in a classic color: black,  charcoal  or navy.  Can be worn with boots and tights  to keep the legs warm on the coldest days.	Wool Pant Suit  Again, all the advantages of wool, but even better, it's an instant outfit. A charcoal  or navy  suit is perfect for an important meeting on a nasty day. Can be worn with heels  or flats --but pick one. Pants should be hemmed to the appropriate length. Wool pants are ideal for the office. A solid color can be worn with a dressy blouse  and jacket as a suit, or split up with a sweater set.	Sweater Dress  Missoni  and Donna Karan  have made these a staple of their collection for years. Comfortable and cozy, a sweater or long-sleeve dress  is perfect for a dinner party or holiday brunch. Pick your undergarments wisely: some knit dresses show every bulge! Try Spanx  to keep the curves in line.	Long Cardigan  More of a blazer than a sweater, the long cardigan is a perfect layering piece for winter. Ruffles  can make the sweater feminine and romantic. Fabrics include cashmere  and wool.  Check out the offerings from: Ralph Lauren,  Dana Buchman  and Theory.

Winter Jackets and Accessories

 Add something extra to your outfit to keep you warm and cozy.

Trench Coat  Belted  and sleek, this style can handle the rain and leave you feeling fashionable. Black  or tan  are the most versatile styles for work. Cashmere  or wool coats  add extra warmth to this typically light jacket.	Boots  Stylish boots are one of the best fashion must-haves for the season. Consider a pair of tall black  or brown leather boots  that you can pair with a wintry dress or skirt. Uggs  are always cute and functional for this season since they are lined with sheepskin --pick up a pair!	Leggings  Black leggings  can be worn under short skirts to keep legs warm. Bolder followers of fashion will pair the legging with a tunic sweater  and a wide belt.  Leggings look great tucked into boots  and come in a variety of colors to go with any outfit.	Hats  Hats are a great way to show off your style and stay warm at the same time. Consider a ski cap  or a hat with a brim for protection against those harsh winter winds. Earmuffs  are also a great alternative that won't mess up your hair.	Fur Trimmed Parka  With these jackets, there's no need to buy a hat! Faux-fur  options are available. Best paired with casual clothes (not a suit) and flat boots.  These jackets work great with extreme temperatures.

Extras

There are some additional things to consider as you prepare for winter, so start shopping early for the best selection and deals.

1. Shearling coat : Ultra warm, yet not quite as flashy or expensive as donning a mink.
2. Waterproof boots : They may not look great, but when it's wet and rainy out, you'll be glad you have something to keep you warm.
3. Gloves : Lined gloves  are best. Leather  and suede  match well with dress coats. On the weekend or with a parka, try a waterproof glove  with something like gortex  on the outside and a warm lining inside.
4. Scarves :  Not only are these in style all year round, but they are great for keeping the chest and neck warm. For a subtle approach, match your scarf to your jacket or coat. Cashmere  is a well-deserved luxury, otherwise stick to toasty warm wool.  Bored? Learn to knit your own. 
5. Thermals : Silk underwear from brands like Hanro  and LL bean  are a great way to layer your winter wardrobe and protect against wind chill on the coldest days.
6. Moisturizer: You'll need a good one to keep your skin soft and supple during the winter.
7. Oversized Sunglasses : Summer isn't the only time you need to protect your peepers. The winter sun can be incredibly bright, so consider using your summertime pair for the colder air.
8. Anti-Frizz Serum : Putting a hat on and off can wreak havoc on your hair, so make sure to add some of this to your bag this winter.
9. Sweaters : A wintertime must have! Get a few basic colors  and cuts and you're ready to take on the elements.
10. Vests : Consider a cute sweater vest  or a puffy down vest  in a fun color.

Related Guides

Ice Skates	Uggs	Women's Guide to Holiday Dressing	Women's Jewelry

External Links

• RoadandTravel.com: Road & Travel magazine has a list of ideas for warm weather vacations.