Brr, it’s cold out here.
There’s nothing harder on a 20 degree day than putting together a chic outfit. We’ve all been there: we put on layers upon layers, only to end up feeling uncomfortable and drab, wishing for warmer days when we can wear a slimmer outfit. Or at least fewer layers.
So what’s the solution? Quite simply, by managing expectations. The reality is that winter is a season where practicality trumps style; it’s more important to be warm than fashionable, and that often means sacrificing your fashion skills for functional styles. It’s also about choosing the right outerwear to be the centerpiece of your outfit, adding color accents, playing with accessories and balancing textures when necessary.
Below are 10 outfit ideas for when you don’t know what to wear on 20 degree days. Stay warm out there.
1 . Monochromatic and Plush
On cold days, there’s nothing better than wrapping yourself in a plush coat. Of course, you’ll look like a cuddly toy in it, but there are ways to style it that are guaranteed to make your outfit look even better. One way is to keep the look monochromatic. Let the coat set the colors of the rest of your outfit and add a pair of boots and a handbag in the same color family. Whatever you wear underneath, make sure it’s warm and cozy.
2 . Just Puffer It
If it’s too cold, no one will blame you if you forgo style in favor of pure practicality. But even a traditional puffer coat can offer added style. A long, extra puffy nylon coat, for example, can stand on its own and allow you to play with accessories. A pair of chunky black boots and futuristic sunglasses are exactly what a puffer coat like this needs.
3 . Double-Breasted with Flare
When the temperature drops, it’s easy to think that the only way to create an outfit is with a jacket. But this look proves otherwise. You can add a flirty touch to a double-breasted, oversized maxi coat by simply letting some fringe (either from a skirt or a dress) peek out from underneath. Depending on how much freshness you can handle, you can wear a pair of pumps or pointed boots with it.
4 . Dramatic Yet Casual
Most people opt for the usual combination of a turtleneck sweater and jeans when the weather turns chilly. Not to mention the obligatory floor-length black coat. One way to add a nice twist to this uniform combination is with opera-length leather gloves. Playing with texture adds an extra dimension to your outfit, while the upscale, nighttime feel of the gloves makes them stand out.
5 . Daytime Party
The fall/winter 2024 runways were full of embellished coats, transforming the otherwise functional and simple garment into a party-ready piece. Whether it’s sequins or brooch-like embellishments, the key is to let the coat do its thing by pairing it with pieces that look like a blank canvas. A white button-down shirt and matching loafers, for example, will make up for the coat’s lived-in look.