Dressing for the Life You Have

A January outfit formula

Some people believe in dressing for the life you want, not the life you have, but I’m not sure how well that translates when the real feel is below zero.

I’m coming at you today from a cold, Chicago day. And I don’t mean 30°cold. We’re talking a high of 3°. Living in Chicago, I’m often dressing for function over form. I’m no better than anyone else. I’m putting on my black puffer, without shame. Because I’m ~ practical now ~, remember?

I’ve picked up somewhat of a formula along the way, so if you’re building your winter wardrobe with warmth at the forefront, this one’s for you.

I often found myself running out of the house in a black coat, brown boots, grey pants, oatmeal gloves, and a cream scarf (all the colors in my narrow-minded rainbow). In an attempt to streamline things, I landed on two formulas to keep me from feeling/looking crazy. Either all one color (in my case, black) with a different colored jacket, or all one color (black, again) including the jacket, cycling in a different color knit accessory. Your pick of hat, scarf, or glove. My ingredients of choice lately have been all black and a navy beanie, a color combo I’ve always loved.

Even Willa is on board. Navy cashmere-silk beanie and black crewneck

I’ve been reaching for a navy hat from this newer line Casasola, out of Italy. I love it so much I’m now eyeing the matching cardigan, made from the same cashmere and silk blend. Another favorite in my rotation is this cream hat from Gabriela Hearst. A nearly identical knit blend on sale in oatmeal and red. I don’t have this one, but I wish I did. If we’re talking balaclavas, I have been praising this cashmere all season, and it’s now on sale. The scarf too. I have both.

Lisa Yang also has a good sale going, and I’ve had my eye on these mittens. On the other end of the glove spectrum, this burgundy leather pair is beautiful. These are also sophisticated and would make me feel put together on the coldest of days.

Bondree quilted coat, some sizes here and here

My black puffer of choice is an older style, but I also love everything about this current one. I also like the look of this one in ‘volcano’.

For a non-weatherproof shoe, these hold up impressively well. I wore them in the rain and snow this past weekend in New York, and they can handle the streets of Chicago. For a true waterproof boot, my first choice are these paired with a thick sock, a makeshift take on these.

Speaking of socks, I’m religious about wearing cashmere on my feet for at least 4 months of the year. These are my #1 and they wear well. I also really like these, also on sale in a two pack.

And if you know me, you know I love my jeans. But when it’s this cold, there is no chance I’m stepping into hard pants. Cashmere pants are the name of the game. If you’ve been around for a minute, this all probably feels a bit repetitive, but don't fault me for being consistent. My favorites remain from Lisa Yang, particularly this pair (more sizes here), also on sale here. These are another staple in my winter wardrobe.

Zip sweater, reminiscent of both Lisa Yang’s cashmere zip up and Khaite’s Winston hoodie. This day was not freezing, as told by the jeans

Belted teddy shearling and black hood, also beautiful

This coat has surpassed my expectations in the warmth department. Also great with sneakers if the temperatures allow. Please share your cold weather must haves with us below!

If you’re in a colder climate, I hope you’re managing to stay warm and cozy. If you’re in LA, I’m continuously thinking of you.