Winter Style: layers, colors, textures.

The key to dressing warm during the winter is layers. The above look features a chunky knit pullover sweater. This oversize sweater can be worn with leggings in a variety of colors. I went with basic black faux leather leggings for this look because I wanted to pair a raspberry colored scarf over the sweater. I also love these brown ankle booties. They don't have a huge heel making them functional and a perfect color to go with several items in your wardrobe. 

If you are more of a jeans kinda girl try a dark wash skinny jean with a bright knit sweater. Splurge and try cashmere! Or you can purchase a basic knit sweater for $15 at Forever 21 in a perfectly bright variety of colors. I chose black accessories for this look because they can be worn with several winter looks. These lace up black boots look super cute with jeans, tights, or leggings. And a black bag is a winter essential. Try a printed scarf to pump up the basic look! 

For a super chic look wear a basic dress in a deep red or dark purple. Pair the dress with a textured light color long cardigan. This fuzzy ivory colored sweater mixes some texture into the look. Try a knit tight in a cozy mocha color. These cut out ankle boots are perfect for a dressy occasion or wear a tall leather boot for a more casual look. The black scarf also helps keep you cozy warm and can be worn with several winter looks. 

Casual winter dress is the epitome of this look. A quilted pullover sweatshirt gives a modern twist on a classic hoodie. The grey goes perfectly with the army green high waisted leggings. Throw on a dark red infinity scarf for a perfect color combination. And don't be afraid to go bold with a brown leather boot instead of basic black! 

Try a long sleeve knit dress for warmth this winter. I love this dark teal dress paired with a purple tight. A mix of light brown and black accessories make the look pop. A camel colored knit scarf brings out the color of the dress and a lace up ankle booties in the same variety of color bring the look together. A black classic bag with gold bangles spices up the look. Don't be afraid to mix colors. Pair a colored dress with bright colored hosiery. Or add a colorful scarf to the mix. 

Last Minute Fashionable Gifts.

Gifts for her:

1. Oversize sweater - don't have to get the size right, the bigger the better!

2. Hooded sweatshirt - perfectly cozy for cold nights at home.

3. Bracelets - stackable stretch bracelets or bangles easy and always in style.

4. Statement necklace - a unique and easy gift idea for a jewelry lover.

4. Cross body or tote bag - cross body for a city dweller or tote for the working girl.

5. Nail polish - a girl can never have too many nail polish colors! 

6. Hats - winter beanies or fashionable fedoras perfect for the fashionable gal.

7. Perfume - whether a perfume or body spray girls love to smell great!

8. Stud earrings - or drop or chandelier earrings if you've seen her wearing them.

9. Lipstick/Mascara - great stocking stuffers and a little addition to any gift.

10. Shoes - if you know her size a pair of Converse or Toms can be a great gift!

Gifts for him:
1. T-shirts - v-necks, crew necks, plain or patterned, they will wear them.
2. Boxers - because they never can have enough of them (even if they think they do).
3. Denim button up - perfect for the fashionable guy.
4. Fashion sneakers - vans, converse, nikes, they don't admit it but they love their kicks!
5. Belt or ties - perfect for the working man.
6. Scarf - when its cold they will appreciate it.
7. Gloves - a pair of tech gloves is a cool gift, they can text while wearing them.
8. Body wash or cologne - great addition to any gift.
9. Watch - I've learned working in jewelry that men love their watches!
10. Sweatshirts - because lets be honest, they can never have enough hoodies. 

Work Appropriate Looks.

Black dress pants are a great career attire choice. These ankle length skinny trousers work well with the black pointy toe flats. You could also try a colored flat with these pants as well or a heel. A printed silk blouse is a staple workplace basic. They come in so many colors and prints. This printed blouse has a small touch of gold in it which is why I went with gold accessories. Watches are important when attending meetings and working through a busy day. 

For a more creative work look try a bright colored dress with sleeves. I love this lime green dress because its not too tight and looks chic paired with a printed scarf. This black and white scarf ties the black pumps in with the look. And the silver accessories make the outfit look young but still appropriate for work. A printed sleeved dress would be really great choice as well. 

For a simple quick put together look try black classic trousers and a flowy t-shirt/blouse. This seasons hottest color is grey. Mix gray flats with a statement necklace in silver or gray. A basic top like this needs some accessories to add some excitement to the look. A statement necklace is perfect for the workplace. Long or short necklaces with some texture and color are great options. Plus, if you work in a city flats can be a huge relief on your feet! 

For a more creative twist mix in bright colored shoes, accessories, or a cardigan. I am obsessed with this  black shift dress because it makes for a blank canvas. A printed colored cardigan like this striped and polka dot one can be layered over the black dress. These red oxfords are also great for work and play into the menswear trend. Gold and black accessories work well with the red and bring this entire creative work appropriate look together. 

What else do you need in your work attire wardrobe? A pencil skirt! This beige pencil skirt is perfect because it can be worn with a black/white/colored blouse. I personally love styling this color skirt with an emerald green blouse. A black blazer and kitten heel tie the look together for a more sophisticated business setting. A rose gold pearl earring and watch also match the beige color and brighten up the black jacket and heels. 

Angela & Roi Handbags: Donate by Color Mission.

I recently came across Angela & Roi an online handbag brand that sells fashionable bags with a philanthropic mission in mind. Their 'Donate by Color' mission donates $5 from each handbag sale to a non-profit organization linked to the color of the bag you purchase. Each bag features a signature A&R ribbon that also helps increase awareness for the cause. At the end of this post is a chart that shows which cause each color is linked to. For example: if you purchase a pink bag $5 from the sale will be donated to a non-profit organization linked to breast cancer awareness. 

Angela & Roi also pride their brand for the craftsmanship put into the making of their handbags. The bags are composed of high quality vegan leather and durable fabrics creating a sturdy and long lasting bag.  

Several style bags can be purchased on the Angela & Roi website. Totes, shoulder bags, and cross body bags can all be purchased on the website for a range of prices. Of course the bags come in all sorts of colors. Below is the chart that links the cause to the color of the bag. Right now they are offering free shipping and returns on all purchases. 

SHOP ANGELA & ROI HANDBAGS!

Shopping on a Budget.

Shopping on a budget is a big deal to me. As a recent college graduate in a lot of debt from student loans I find it extremely important to shop on a budget and not spend too much money on all of the pieces in my wardrobe. The above look features all inexpensive items from various stores. The polka dot dress was only $12.95 from H&M. The black cardigan I purchased on sale at Target for $12.50 and the scarf I purchased a few years ago from Walmart for only $5. My boots were around $20 from Burlington Coat Factory and the tights were only $5 from Target.  All together making this look cost around $55. But each of these items is extremely versatile and can be warm with several different looks.

Tips for shopping on a budget:

• Hit the sale racks! Places like Target, H&M, Forever 21, and department stores have great sale and clearance racks. You can find items for super cheap that are still in style. Don't get flustered looking through a pile of clothes. Take your time and rummage through. You never know what you might find! 
• Shopping online? Look for coupon codes! You can almost always find free shipping coupon codes for online stores. Also some stores offer 15% of 20% off coupon codes for online orders. 
• Don't be afraid to shop thrift shops. I've found countless new items at my local Goodwill store. Target sends many of their unsold items to Goodwill and you can get them for seriously discounted prices off their racks. 
• Shop around for staple items and basics. Looking for a plain white tee or black cardigan? Don't assume you'll find them for the best price at Target or Walmart. I've purchased camisoles and plain tees at Forever 21 for less than $5. 
• Don't cheap on an item you want to last forever. I recently purchased a wool peacoat for $70. Although it wasn't that expensive I could have purchased a similar one for $20 but the quality just wasn't the same. Sometimes you have to consider the quality of an item over the price! 

All of the items below are less than $50. View the set on Polyore to purchase the items!

Under $50! by saraisabella16.

Winter Weather Style.

1. Don't be afraid to wear a hat.

Everyone says that they look awful in hats. But I strongly believe that everyone can look good in a hat. It all depends on finding the right type of hat for your personal style. The best part about wearing a hat is that they can be super stylish but also functional. A cozy knit beanie is perfect for keeping your ears warm or a felt wide brimmed hat can be perfect for a boho chic look. If hats aren't your thing try a knit headband to keep your ears warm.

2. Purchase a coat that is timeless.

A peacoat can be a great addition to your winter wardrobe. Basic black is always a great choice but also consider a pop of color in a traditional shape. Single or double breasted, with or without a belt, collar, no collar, with a hood. There are some many options to choose a coat that fits your style. A black and white print (check, houndstooth, tweed) can also be perfect for your wardrobe. Last winter I purchased a hot pink peacoat from H&M, and this season I purchased an Anne Klein black peacoat. Both are perfect timeless coats for the season. One a little more basic than the other but both work perfectly for the season. Also, don't cheap out when buying a coat. Find one made of at least part wool and that is fully lined. You won't be disappointed in spending the extra money for a coat that lasts longer and can be worn for many winter seasons to come.

3. Leggings and tights can be your best friend.

Don't be afraid to wear anything other than jeans during the winter months. Tights and leggings can still keep you warm and can be simple, comfortable, and chic. Be sure to have a basic pair of black leggings and opaque tights in your wardrobe. Also consider trying a pair with a flair. A knit tight can be warm and stylish under a dress or skirt. Printed leggings can also be super chic and add a little spice to a basic colored tunic. Tights can be a simple and cheap addition to your wardrobe and can help some of your summer staples be wearable during the colder months. 

4. Layers.

I can't say enough about layers. It is very important to add basics to your wardrobe. Layering tanks can be essential in keeping warm during cold winter days. Try a tank top under a basic long sleeve shirt in either a solid or basic print (stripes, polka dot, plaid) and layer over that a cardigan, sweater, or fun faux fur vest. These layers can look super chic and all it takes is piling on a few basic items. Add a scarf for another layer or belt the look. 

5. Boots and tall socks.

Boots are a winter staple in the Northeast. I have many pairs of boots. And you can get them in so many varieties. A black pair is essential for me, and also a brown or tan, and grey are my top three to have in your wardrobe. A mix of suede and leather add dimension to your collection. Tall socks are great under boots. Let them peek out of the top to add another pop of color to your look or wear a basic black pair for warmth and comfort. Ankle boots are also all the rage this season. Boots go great over leggings, tights, and jeans. A stacked heel can aid in adding some height to your look and can make your legs look longer. Or black boots with black leggings, jeans, or tights can make your legs look super long. 

6. Repurpose your summer wardrobe.

All of these items might look like they are for the summer season only but think again! All of these summer dresses can easily be transformed to a wintertime outfit but adding tights, a sweater and a scarf. The neon green skirt can be worn with black tights, a blouse, scarf, and boots. Voila! Perfect cold weather look even with the hint of neon. Afraid of the bright colors? Tone them down the darker toned basics. Another great idea is to wear your black shorts over black tights. This look can be fashionable and not childish. What about your crop tops? Wear them with a high waisted pant or skirt. Again add a scarf or chunky sweater to cover your arms and neck. 

7. Scarves.

Scarves don't need a whole lot of explanation. What a simple addition to your wardrobe for a low price.  Infinity or circle scarves are increasingly popular this season and can be found almost anywhere. Try a printed scarf over a basic blouse or mix your prints! A faux fur scarf can also add a touch of sophistication to your look. 

8. Wear long sleeves under a jacket.

Don't forget about your light jackets when it gets really cold. Pair a long sleeve sweater or tee shirt under your jackets for a warm look. These three types of jackets are totally in style right now. The army green jacket, denim, and leather biker jackets are perfect paired with tops and tees. Army green looks great with a pale pink or navy blue. Denim goes well with a striped tee or plaid! The leather looks fabulous with a soft sweater underneath for some delicate and edgy contrast.

9. Large bag to hold winter essentials.

I like to carry a larger bag during the winter for a few simple reasons. First, they can really hold all of your essentials. Second, use the extra space in a larger bag to hold your scarf, hat, and gloves when you head indoors after arriving at your destination. Nothings worse than having to carry your hat and gloves around inside the grocery store or your friends place. Lastly, a large bag looks better when you are wearing a chunky sweater or jacket. A tiny little bag can look a little lackluster when wearing a large jacket and a lot of layers. 

10. Sweater dresses and turtle necks.

Sweater dresses are so cozy and warm. Plus turtlenecks can be functional and chic. For a simple winter outfit pair a sweater dress with tights and a scarf. No cardigan needed for those sweater dresses with sleeves simplifying the look with no need to add another piece. Turtlenecks are also super chic and parisian. No scarf needed for these tops. Add a simple necklace to offset the chunky material. These turtleneck crop tops are also so cute for a night out on the town! 

Cold Weather Looks.

Lavender is such a great color for all seasons. Although this pastel shade might be 

considered a spring color it is perfect with a pair of black pants and flats. Boots

can be swapped in on a cooler day. The studs on the color make for a great detail

and the long sleeves allow the look to be more seasonal appropriate.

I just recently purchased this red print dress from target. The color is perfect for Fall/Winter

and there is nothing easier than throwing on a black cardigan and tights. Black boots are also

a perfect winter staple because they can go with almost any look and are super comfy.

To transition this pink lace summer dress into the winter I wore it with a black cardigan, tights

and an ankle boot. The ankle boots adds a touch of sophistication to the look rather than a knee

high pair of boots. Any summer dress can be transitioned into winter with all black staple items.

My ankle boot collection. I might have an obsession. 

Coming soon a post on Winter Fashion Tips! 

Thanks for reading!

Get Styled by Me!

I've launched a personal styling 

business with Keaton Row, the only personal 

styling company that lets you work one-on-one 

with a Stylist you trust (me!) 100% online 

(anywhere, anytime).

I’d love to talk about the next steps in working 

together to revamp your wardrobe and refresh 

your look and I’d love to share a complimentary lookbook 

with you to show you how it works. Contact me 

via email at JohnsonSara16@gmail.com. 

Check out my stylist page. 

Accessories Trends.

All Gray Everyday.

Swap black for grey this season. All shades make for a perfect neutral touch to any look. 

Pile on grey jewelry or in the cold put together a scarf, hat, and gloves in all grey. Grey boots can also be a great staple item for your fall wardrobe. Check out this grey bag by Michael Kors.

Rebellious Touch.

Try a rebellious look this fall by piling on accessories featuring studs and leather. Try on a pair

of fun glasses by BonLook. Or wear some bright red lipstick. A studded bracelet adds a touch

of a rebel feel without going too far. Or a pair of black leather boots with a small stud detail. 

Faux Fur Fun.

Keep warm this fall with faux fur! As the weather gets colder wear a fur headband

or a pair of fur gloves. A black leather scarf can be a great addition to any look. Fur bags

are also increasing in popularity. Try a fur hobo bag from C. Wonder and the look is complete.

Love Conquers All.

Heart prints and accessories with the word 'love' are a top trend this season. 

Diane Von Furstenberg carries a bunch of tech accessories featuring this trend.

It can be as simple as throwing on a heart print scarf to wearing heart stud earrings.

Don't forget to check out my last post featuring Autumn clothing trends!

Halloween Costume DIY.

Halloween Costumes can be easily put together this season. Try these easy combos below for a 

quick costume. All you need is a few simple items from your closet. If you don't own these wardrobe staples they can be purchased for much cheaper than buying a full blown costume. Save your money and buy these items from a regular shop or thrift store. Add accessories from a halloween store to pull your costume together. You can purchase these for much cheaper than buying an actual costume. Don't forget to check your local thrift shops and Target to find items for your costume. Below are ideas for a hippie, cat, barbie, witch, and where's Waldo.

Bell bottoms + Moccasins + Tie Dye = Hippie

Black Jumpsuit + Black Boots + Fur Jacket = Black Cat

Pink dress + Pink Purse + Pink Lipstick + Pink Heels = Barbie

Lace Black Dress + Stripe Tights + Black Booties = Witch

Red and White Striped Top + Blue Jeans + Brown Shoes = Where's Waldo

Autumn Style.

The Fall season is such a fun time to play around with layering and color. Fashion is such a great way to express yourself and the Fall season is a great time to mess around with different textures, prints, and colors.

     1. Mixed textures: leather & knit

This trend can be super easy to put together this Fall. All you need to do is start

with one staple leather item whether it be a skirt, top, shorts, or a small leather panel

on a top or sweater. You can mix this leather piece with a comfy knit sweater to soften

the edgy leather. With this look I paired an a-line leather skirt with an oversize grey sweater.

I topped off these two pieces with a statement necklace to tie the colors together. I also

chose a royal blue flat because this blue is very popular this autumn season. 

2. Fall Florals

This next trend can be accomplished by transitioning a floral summer dress into the winter
or by choosing a darker floral for the fall. This dress has a black base which makes it perfect
for the colder season. Since it has sleeves I didn't choose a cardigan to cover up but instead
a pair of black tights and a knit red scarf for some warmth. I chose a gold bracelet to add a little
flair to the look. These tan ankle boots also work really well with the colors in the dress. 

3. All Over Prints

Mixing prints can be a difficult trend to pull off. To accomplish this successfully pair
two prints that share a similar color. For example this striped pencil skirt is paired with an
abstract print that also features only two colors. This pea green color is less summer and more
fall. When mixing prints consider going for a less dramatic shoe. These black flats bring the look together. You can tuck the blouse in the front of the skirt and leave the back draping out.

4. Biker Denim on Denim

Denim on denim is so chic. And biker staples are everywhere this season. Instead
of choosing a leather biker jacket consider denim. This jacket is extremely versatile
it can be worn over a floral dress or over a basic tee like this look. A pair of denim
boyfriend jeans are perfect for this outfit. The denim on denim works well together because
it features two different shades of denim. Avoid wearing denim of all the same shade. I also
chose a sexy black heel to counteract the mens style denim I chose for the look. 

5. White on White

Who says you can't wear white after labor day? Sure you can! This white dress is so effortless

and paired with a sheer pair of black tights and white ankle boots it is perfection for the fall. I 

also chose a white scarf to bring the look into the fall and make it less of a summer feel. Some

white accessories can top off the look. If its cold pair a white jacket with the look or a black 

sweater if you feel self conscious about all of the white. Layering white on white can be chic.

Colder Weather.

It seems to be getting colder and colder everyday. This is just the excuse I needed to get my Dior grandpa sweater out. I love wearing this sweater with leggings. Its such a comfortable and cute look.

I love these printed trousers I recently purchased at TJ Maxx I wore them with a basic tee and cardigan

this day and used a hot pink scarf as a pop of color. I cant wait to wear these pants again with a colored

blouse and some chunky jewelry. These could also look cute with a short colorful pair of heels.

With my ankle length trousers I wore a button up magenta colored blouse that has leather 

cuffs and collar. I also wore my snake print flats to mix up the look. I always seem to go straight 

to my black shoes! Next time I think I will tuck in a blouse and belt the trousers!

I love my new denim biker jacket. Perfect for fall weather and not your basic denim jacket!