I have officially hit the point in winter when the novelty of heavy sweaters and Heattech has worn off. Each morning, I browse Pinterest in the hopes that pictures of downtown cool girls will move me to break from the jeans-and-turtleneck uniform I have been wearing since November. But I need to be honest with myself: I have enough pieces in my closet to clothe my household of five. The problem here isn’t a lack of garments, it’s a lack of inspiration. I have fallen out of love with my wardrobe, and I need to rekindle the spark. Assuming I’m not alone in this, I have enlisted four sustainability-minded stylists to give their best advice for revitalizing your winter looks—without shopping. Whether you are looking for new layering ideas or ways to incorporate color, here are their best styling tips to help you get creative.
Try mixing in lighter neutrals instead of always reaching for black or dark colors. We tend to reach for darker colors in the winter, but softer neutrals like olive, khaki, navy, shades of brown, taupe, and cream can soften and lighten up our outfits and mood. They still have the comfort factor we crave in winter, but when styled together, or paired with a trusted black separate, the look feels more considered. Alternatively, they make an unexpected but good pairing with winter brights, which can sometimes feel too harsh when worn with black.
Embrace the functional pieces. Winter necessitates utilitarian elements like chunky lug soles or oversized quilted parkas, so why not use these dramatic elements to give some humor to a winter look? Contrast heavy silhouettes to balance: wear an oversized puffer with a skirt and tights, or a slim-fit pant, a sexy boot (if you can!), and always a great pair of sunnies.
Layer thoughtfully. Layering in winter is nothing new, but when it’s styled it feels more intentional and elevated. Cuffing and rolling sleeves, tucking sweaters, and adding tights under your favorite denim go a long way without much effort. Layers don’t just keep us warm, they also add texture and dimension. Tie a fuzzy sweater around your waist or neck, throw an oxford over a slim-fit turtleneck and unbutton it down to the waist. Layering in winter yields so many new combinations when we start to see our pieces as elements of style instead of garments we’ve had for years.
Photo: Courtesy of Neelam Ahooja
Mix it up a little with color. Try a new combo you haven't tried before like pop of red or green. If you're short on colorful clothing, try it with an accessory. I use my scarves to lift an older ensemble. [Color] is also proven to brighten our moods on darker days. And nothing beats shopping in your closet! Better for the environment and the wallet.
Photo: Courtesy of Kara Fabella
Play with accent colors. Whether you are a color maximalist or a neutral-loving minimalist, chances are you have that go-to accent accessory. From your favorite beanie to a brighter-toned purse, playing with pops of color can literally brighten up any outfit and make you fall in love with your repeat winter foundationals.
Experiment with layers. I love taking my favorite summer midi and maxi dresses and layering a fitted turtleneck underneath. Another simple yet elevated hack—pair your favorite chunky knit top with a slip dress and your favorite mid-calf boots. Add on a belt over the knit for a waist-defining shape.
Elevate essential winter staples like tights and legwarmers. What I love about "balletcore" right now is that many of us already have these pieces and you actually want to wear them during the coldest season. Pair leg warmers with your favorite mini skirt and bodysuit for a day out—and throw on your favorite chunky cardigan for good measure. For tights, pair your favorite sheer tights with a long, structured power coat and stilettos.
Incorporate a summer piece into your winter look. Many of us divide our closets into categories, usually ending up with spring/summer and fall/winter wardrobes. This season, try something different. Reach into that summer wardrobe and pull out one piece. This could be a silk slip dress or a textured crop top. Take 10 minutes and style a look around this one piece. Here are some ideas to get you inspired:
Summer Silks: Tuck your summer silk dress into wool trousers, and add a leather jacket and scarf.
Textured Tanks: Layer your textured (lace, sheer) tanks under a heavy wool blazer, and add jeans and boots.
Open-toe Heels: Instead of wearing loafers to dinner, try tights and open-toe kitten heels.