Winter Coat Guide

Growing up, I always hated wearing a coat. In my opinion, it was something extra that was just going to be in the way when I took it off, I would have to carry it around with me and not to mention I would look and feel like a giant marshmallow. Thinking back to those days, I can't believe that I used to wait outside for the bus in below freezing temperatures in nothing but a sweatshirt. Nowadays, my stubbornness has worn off and I embrace the function and fashion of a good winter coat. Here is a guide of what is essential, optional, and currently trending in the world of winter outerwear.

1) Puffer Coat: Puffer's are great for the day to day grind. They are casual, warm, and comfortable. These can be long, short, bright, or dark, anything that you prefer. I personally opt for a thin, packable down style in a short length because I don't like feeling super puffy. Make sure whatever you choose can stand up to the elements of winter. After all, the purpose of a coat is first and foremost to keep you warm, feeling and looking fabulous is just an added bonus than can be achieved by choosing something that is well fitted to your frame.

Bloomingdale's

I strongly recommend making an investment in a good winter coat because its something you will need for years and years to come. The puffer is a style that will always be relevant so you don't have to worry that it will become obsolete in the future. Bundle yourself up in gloves, a scarf, and hat and tackle any storm that comes your way.
2) Pea coat (mid/short length): Pea coats are ESSENTIAL! Length and color are purely up to you, but you definitely need one of these in your life if you don't have one already. They are so incredibly versatile and can take you from day to night in a flash. No matter what you have on underneath, a pea coat can make you look dressier in an instant, even if it's laundry day...

Macy's

If a puffer isn't your thing, then a pea coat is definitely a must because of its comfort, warmth, and style. This type of coat is another that will never go out of style no matter how many years you own it, so save up and invest!
3) Dressy/Statement Coat: This isn't 100% essential because a pea coat can serve the same purpose, but if you have some extra money to spend, then why not? If you have a lot of dress-up functions to attend during the winter then you might want something really dressy to wear over your fancy outfit. A dressy or statement coat can be anything from a faux fur coat to a long pea coat made specifically to be worn over a dress or even a printed style would be amazing. You can spend less on this type of coat if you are only going to get a few wears out of it.

Go Jane

Nasty Gal

Neiman Marcus

 4) Trendy for 2015- Cape & Wrap Coats: I don't have a lot to say about these other than the fact that they are fabulous! If you already have the essentials and want to try something new and trendy then you should definitely go for it. I can picture wearing each of these styles on a snow day in the city, walking around, shopping, having lunch, and just looking incredibly fashionable while doing it all.

Forever 21

BooHoo

asos

No matter what your taste or style, we can't escape the need for a winter coat. Find what suits you and invest in something that will last you years. Try a new trend or a make a statement, but most importantly stay warm!

New Year, New Fashionable You

Every New Year we decide to start fresh and make a better life for ourselves. Sticking to our resolutions, as we all know, is the challenge. Implementing a plan we can and will commit to for the next 365 days is the most important part of achieving our goals. If one of your resolutions is to be more fashion forward or more adventurous with fashion choices, you've come to the right place. Below are some tips and tricks on how to stick to these resolutions or can even be applied to any other resolutions you may have.

If you want to be more fashion forward this year,
1) Figure out your personal style: Research brands you feel reflect the look that you want to go for. If you're not sure at all, check out stores that offer an eclectic mix of styles and see which ones you gravitate toward. After you have determined the particular style that best suits you, look for inspiration on how to put different looks together.
2) Find Inspiration: Whether it is on Pinterest, Polyvore, a blog, or even a magazine, there is inspiration all over. A magazine subscription is a good way to learn about current trends, where to buy, as well as many tips on how to create outfits for different occasions. Make sure your inspiration is constantly visible in order to keep you motivated. Create a photo collage of some of your favorite looks and set it as the background on your phone as a constant reminder of what inspires you to be more fashion conscious. Aim to find photos that are suitable for what you would wear in real life. For example, although fairytale-like gowns are gorgeous, they might not be the best outfit inspiration for your everyday life.
3) Make Rules: In order to be more fashion forward you need to make an effort. Don't allow yourself to wear yoga pants if you're not at the gym. Make it a rule that your Ugg boots will not be allowed in restaurants, malls, or especially work. Force yourself to put thought into what you put on your body each and every day instead of throwing on your "comfy" clothes before heading to lunch with friends.

If you want to start taking more fashion risks,
1) Start Small: If you're sick of your comfort zone of all solid neutral colors (mainly black) and want to break free. Start by introducing one piece at a time. What's truly amazing is that neutral colors are more than just white, black, and grey, but also more colors like navy, olive, and camel. These neutrals will make it easier for you to step into the world of color. Look for colors that match the season as well as your skin-tone. If you're afraid that wearing something that will make you stand out too much, don't wear a color that doesn't make sense with the season you are dressing in (Winter & Neon= no-no).
2) Add Print: Try something monochrome at first so that you don't have to worry about having to match the rest of your outfit to the different colors in your top. Once you get the hang of it find prints that are simple but add a pop of color so that you can incorporate the same in your accessories, bottoms, or outerwear. Keep in mind the size of the print in proportion to your body. You don't want something too over powering that you will be lost in.
3) Mix it all up: So now that you're wearing both colors and prints, its time to mix. If you are timid to try it out, again start small. Wear a printed blouse with printed flats, it still counts! Wear colors that are cool like blue, purple, and green together or warm colors like red, pink, and orange. Remember that all colors have countless shades and if they are similar in hue they will automatically go. When mixing prints close together try to keep the size and colors similar. Also, breaking up prints with a solid piece or a neutral can add more depth and be easier on the eye when dealing with larger prints.

It's a brand new year, so why not make a brand new you. It's time to make this year your year and be the best you that you possibly can. I strongly believe that making an effort for yourself each day will greatly boost your self confidence because looking good on the outside will make you feel good on the inside. So no more frumpy sweatshirts and yoga pants! If you start working toward this goal now, it will become automatic as time goes on because the way you feel will just be too good to go back. Take more risks, try new things, and find yourself. Happy New Year!