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When I get ready for work at this time of the year, I stare at my closet and think, “What is the warmest thing I own? Whatever it is, I’m wearing that today…” Then I realize it’s probably not the best idea to wear footie pajamas out the door, so I come up with another plan instead.

In the winter, feeling comfortable, being warm, and still retaining your personal sense of style seem like too many things to ask for in one outfit. But it’s not the impossible dream! Here are a few ways to have it all this winter:
 

Try a Maxi Dress
When it’s too cold to expose your legs to the elements but you want the easy comfort of a dress, work a maxi! A long jersey knit dress will feel like you never stepped out of your cozy pajamas, and you can still wear tights underneath for extra warmth.
 

Layer Whenever Possible
Always look for opportunities to add a sweater, soft scarf, or blazer on top of your outfit. A thin leather or canvas jacket that can be worn all day (and still fit under your warm outer coat) is another great option for staying cozy and stylish. Or get sneaky (and snug) by layering a cropped sweater over a dress—it will look like you just bought yourself a new high-waisted skirt. Yes!
 

Choose Chunky Heeled Boots
To keep your feet warm, buy leather boots that are a half size bigger than you would normally get so you can wear thick socks underneath. Choose a chunky heel boot instead of a thin pencil heel (the height is up to your comfort level) and you’ll be able to run around town all day with solid footing underneath. (I have these in two colors because I wear them so much!)
 

Swap Out Your Tights
Leggings are my go-to item when I’m lounging around the house, but they can bring comfort to a day routine, as well. For extra protection against the cold, wear leather leggings (real or faux) under your dresses, rather than thin tights—the shine from the leather provides a more polished look than cotton.
 

Wrap Yourself in a Sweater Dress
If all you want is to snuggle in a cozy sweater all day, go with a sweater dress! You’ll feel like you’re curled up in an oversized sweater on the couch, but you’ll look completely put together. And you can still layer leggings, scarves, and even a jacket for extra warmth. You can even buy a turtleneck version if you want to skip the scarf.
 

 

 

 

 

Doesn’t that all sound cozy? Whichever items you wear, be sure to choose fabrics that are soft to the touch. Nothing makes you less comfortable then a “comfy” sweater that itches like crazy all day!

Hopefully now the next time you make a chilly morning outfit decision you’ll know just what to reach for. Stay warm (and stylish) out there!

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Laura Gummerman is the crazy cat lady who pens The Band Wife Blog and is a staff writer for A Beautiful Mess. She resides in Springfield, Missouri, with her musician husband, Todd, and plays mamma to two kitties in between Netflix binges. She is currently waiting for her next pizza fix (which she hopes will be soon).

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