Polar Vortex Style Picks
Clothing for severe winter weather is generally not the most flattering. In the chilly winter months, most of us go for functionality over fashion, saving our style efforts for Spring. However, as someone who grew up in the South and never had a chance to dress for cold weather (until now!), I happen to love the snow bunny look. Fortunately, in D.C., home to Snowmageddon and now victim of the polar vortex, opportunities for cozy dressing abound. Here are my picks for looking chic and staying warm in this less than ideal climate.
Puffer Coats
Wear a puffy down coat. Just wear it. Don’t avoid them because they make you look like a marshmallow. Instead, go for a slim fit or one with a belt, like this one by Burberry. Once you step outside, you won’t regret this purchase.
Trapper Hats
My boyfriend makes fun of my trapper hat, but he just doesn’t know how warm it is! Ok, they do look a little funny, but in a cute way, right? I love this plaid faux fur one by True Religion. If you don’t already have one, now is the time to shop those post-holiday winter clearance sales.
Stoles
A stole brings to mind old-Hollywood elegance. Fur stoles are often seen draped around shoulders at winter soirees, but I also love casual stoles. This one by Uniqlo is a bargain at $12.90. You can also find gorgeous unique stoles at vintage shops.
Hooded Scarves
This two-in-one accessory is the next best thing to a trapper hat and perfect for the fashion minimalist. Why peel back hat, scarf and earmuffs when you can go for a simple hooded scarf that’s working overtime?
Apres Ski Boots
Lastly, we come to the snow boots, a necessary evil this time of year. But not all snow boots are hideous! These Tory Burch waterproof quilted rain booties will guard your feet against the snow and look good doing it. Sorel also has a great selection of winter boots appropriate for après ski or venturing outdoors in the polar vortex.
Erica Moody is a Louisiana-born writer who’s called D.C. home since 2010. In addition to fashion writing, she covers social events, edits The Citron Review literary journal and is working on a novel. Erica holds an MFA in creative writing from Antioch University.