It feels like the East Coast is in for a real winter this year, and dressing for the cold can be a challenge! While Philly winters might not rival those in New England or the upper Midwest, staying warm while still looking stylish can take some effort. Today, I’m sharing my favorite fashion tips for surviving a cold winter—because bundling up doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style.
Aritzia The Super Puff₂O™ Mid – Rainstop™ in Modern Taupe (S) // MOTHER The Dazzler Flood Fray in What’s Your Sign (29) // SOREL Out N About IV in Omega Taupe/ Black (8.5) // black scarf // Celine sunnies
I realize this post would have been more timely a couple of months ago when we were planning our winter wardrobes, but there’s still plenty of winter left if you’re feeling like your cold-weather wardrobe could use a mid-season refresh.
Stylish Solutions to Stay Warm All Winter Long
#1. Invest In A Proper Winter Coat
Growing up in Virginia, I didn’t know the true meaning of “cold” until I went to college in Boston. Those temperatures were startling to me. One particularly frigid day, I was complaining about how cold I was when a friend suggested I get a proper winter coat. I know… Duh, right? But that was a lightbulb moment for me. At the time, I was wearing a lightweight wool peacoat with everything, but what I really needed was a full-on winter parka, like The North Face Metropolis Parka.
The North Face Metropolis Parka (updated version) // old camel cashmere turtleneck // MOTHER The Dazzler Ankle Fray (29) // UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie (8.5)
My style is a few years old, but the current version still has the sleek, feminine silhouette I love, updated with a modern design. It features 600-fill recycled down for warmth and thoughtful details like a two-way zipper, reverse-coil hand pockets, clean-finish cuffs, and an adjustable waist for a customizable fit.
Recently, I added another parka to my winter coat collection: The Super Puff™ from Aritzia. These coats have a cult following for good reason—they strike the perfect balance between function and fashion. Known for their sleek, modern silhouettes that flatter without adding bulk, they’re as stylish as they are practical, with thoughtful details that make them a standout for cold-weather dressing.
Aritzia The Super Puff₂O™ Mid – Rainstop™ in Coal Grey // Talbots sweater (S) // similar PAIGE Laurel Canyon Flares (29) // Marc Fisher boots (8) // YSL sunnies
Customization is one of the reasons The Super Puff™ is so popular. These coats come in a variety of lengths, colors, and finishes—from matte to shiny to water-repellent—so there’s truly something for everyone. Thoughtful details like lined pockets, oversized hoods, and soft StormSoft™ cuffs with thumbholes add to their appeal, keeping you warm and comfortable no matter the weather.
I chose The Super Puff₂O™ Mid – Rainstop™, primarily because it was available in the colors I wanted—but I’m not mad about it. Philly winters can be wet, so the waterproof finish is a great bonus. The other option in the Mid length, The Super Puff™ Mid – cliMATTE™, features a water-repellent, wind-resistant ripstop fabric with a matte finish.
Honestly, in-store, I couldn’t tell much difference between the two. It wasn’t until I got home and started researching online that I realized there were two options! Both styles are filled with 700+ fill-power premium down for incredible warmth. The Rainstop™ fabric on my coat is fully waterproof and windproof, making it an ideal choice for harsher weather.
Aritzia The Super Puff₂O™ Mid – Rainstop™ in Modern Taupe (S) // Talbots sweater (S) // similar PAIGE Laurel Canyon Flares (29) // Marc Fisher boots (8) // YSL sunnies
I tried two colors and sizes before deciding on the Modern Taupe in a size small. While I also loved the Coal Grey, it felt too similar to my black parka, and I liked how the black trim stood out more on the Modern Taupe. As for sizing, the small fit more sleekly, while the medium gave a bulkier look. Ultimately, I preferred the small for a more flattering silhouette, though either size would work. It really depends on your layering needs and how you want it to look.
When I want to look more dressed up but stay warm, a high-quality wool (or wool-blend) coat is always a great option. I’ve shared the Andrew Marc Regine Pressed Bouclé Wool Coat so many times, you’re probably tired of hearing about it, but I count it as one of my all-time best purchases.
Andrew Marc Regine Pressed Bouclé Wool Coat (S) (also at Nordstrom Rack) // old Joe’s Jeans // old Stuart Weitzman boots // old Vince sweater
I first discovered Andrew Marc many moons ago during a collaboration—talk about a blast from the past! (If you want a trip down memory lane, you can check it out HERE!) Their coats are known for impeccable quality and attention to detail, so when I spotted this pressed bouclé wool coat at Saks OFF 5TH a couple years back, I didn’t think twice about snapping it up. It features thoughtful touches like button-tab cuffs and convenient welt pockets, and the pressed wool bouclé adds a gorgeous texture that instantly elevates any outfit.
This coat is also surprisingly warm, too! In this photo, I wore walking all over Chicago on a chilly December day. And the best part? It’s currently on sale for $92 at Saks OFF 5TH with code COLD.
FIT TIP: This coat runs big; if in doubt, size down.
Andrew Marc Regine Pressed Bouclé Wool Coat (S) (also at Nordstrom Rack) // old PAIGE jeans // LØCI Origin logo-patch sneakers // Jenni Kayne sweater (S) (budget option) // Burberry scarf (budget option) // DIFF sunnies
#2. Have A Variety of Stylish Waterproof Boots
To survive a cold winter, you need a few pairs of boots that are both practical and stylish. For true snow boots, the UGG Adirondack has been a classic for years—and for good reason. Despite their bulky appearance, they’re shockingly lightweight and flexible. Plus, they’re completely waterproof and fully lined with UGGpure™, a wool textile designed to feel like genuine shearling. They’re so cozy and soft inside that I rarely bother with socks when I wear mine.
UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie (8.5) // MOTHER The Dazzler slim straight ankle jeans (29) // The North Face Metropolis Parka (updated version) // Nordstrom cashmere turtleneck (S) // Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
For days when you don’t need as much warmth or coverage, I love the SOREL Out N About IV Classic Waterproof Duck Boot. It’s perfect for messy weather and offers a great mix of style and function. The waterproof leather upper and rugged rubber overlay are grounded by a sturdy traction sole to keep you stylish and dry in wet conditions. And it has some really nice color ways, too—this Omega Taupe/ Black is the perfect pairing with my new Aritzia Super Puff™ in Modern Taupe.
SOREL Out N About IV Classic Waterproof Duck Boot in Omega Taupe/ Black (8.5) // Aritzia The Super Puff₂O™ Mid – Rainstop™ in Modern Taupe (S) // MOTHER The Dazzler Flood Fray in What’s Your Sign (29) // black scarf // CELINE sunnies
Another favorite is the SOREL Out N About IV Chillz Waterproof Duck Boot. This version features a faux-shearling lining and 100g of insulation for extra warmth, along with a slightly higher shaft that provides more coverage and gives a rugged, winter-ready vibe. I went with the Black/Chalk colorway, which works well with black jeans or my Athleta Rainier High Rise Bootcut Pants. (I wish I’d photographed that look, but you can see it HERE.)
SOREL Out N About IV Chillz Waterproof Duck Boot in Black/ Chalk (8.5) // Helly Hansen Lisburn Waterproof Insulated Raincoat // Gap Factory High Rise Soft Vintage Slim Jeans in Black Wash (29) // Hammitt Bryant
When I want to level up my look, I turn to Blondo for weatherproof suede and leather fashion boots. Their styles are both practical and polished, with a memory foam footbed for extra comfort. These boots pair beautifully with flares and wider-leg jeans, making them my go-to when I’m aiming for a more refined cold-weather look.
similar Blondo boots (8) // Sanctuary Going Out Faux Fur Coat (S) // Vince Weekend V-Neck (S) (option) // similar PAIGE Laurel Canyon High Waist Flare (29)
3. Layer On Cozy Sweaters
When it comes to staying warm, nothing beats layering with high-quality sweaters. If you can wear wool or cashmere, it’s absolutely the best option for adding warmth without bulk. One of my favorites is the Nordstrom brand cashmere—it gives you a great bang for your buck. I’m wearing their camel cashmere turtleneck here, but it’s almost sold out for the season. If you’re looking for other affordable options, Quince also has an excellent selection of budget-friendly cashmere sweaters that don’t skimp on quality.
Nordstrom cashmere turtleneck (S) // UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie (8.5) // MOTHER The Dazzler slim straight ankle jeans (29) // The North Face Metropolis Parka (updated version) // Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
For a more upscale option, the Vince Weekend V Neck Cashmere Sweater is hard to beat. Made from thick and plush 100% cashmere, it has an easy fit and a flattering V-neckline that’s both timeless and chic. I styled the black version with a faux fur jacket and washed black flares for a sleek, monochromatic look. When it’s especially cold, I’ll swap the faux fur jacket for the Andrew Marc Regine Pressed Bouclé Wool Coat to add extra warmth.
Vince Weekend V-Neck (S) (option) // Sanctuary faux fur coat (S) // similar PAIGE Laurel Canyon flares (29) // similar Blondo boots (8)
If you’re after a cashmere sweater with a little more personality, the Talbots Cashmere Cable Knit Flare Cuff Sweater is a perfect choice. Its classic cable-knit design is updated with modern flare cuffs and a relaxed mock neck for a fresh twist on a winter staple. Plus, it’s a great price right now!
Aritzia The Super Puff₂O™ Mid in Modern Taupe (S) // Talbots Cashmere Cable Knit Flare Cuff Sweater (S) // similar PAIGE Laurel Canyon Flares (29) // YSL sunnies // J.Crew earrings
4. Accessorize for Extra Warmth
When you need even more protection from the elements, a wool or cashmere scarf is a stylish and practical way to accessorize your winter look. The Cashmere Scarf from Everlane is a fantastic option at a great price. It’s final sale, but luckily with scarves, there’s no need to worry about sizing.
Everlane The Cashmere Scarf // Andrew Marc Regine (S) // Talbots sweater (S) // MOTHER The Weekend in Wanted! (29) // similar boots
I also recently picked up this black Rib Wool & Cashmere Scarf from Nordstrom to wear with my taupe Aritzia puffer. Made from 70% wool and 30% cashmere, it has a subtle ribbed texture that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Or for a modern twist, consider a scarf coat! I was skeptical at first, but the Quince Double-Faced Merino Wool Scarf Coat has won me over. The attached scarf is not only convenient, but it also gives the coat a unique, stylish flair. I got so many comments on this coat when I wore it last week.
Quince Double-Faced Merino Wool Scarf Coat (S) // Talbots Cashmere Cable Knit Flare Cuff Sweater (S) // MOTHER The Weekend in Wanted! (29) // Franc Sarto Vianca Chelsea Boots (8)
And don’t forget gloves! While I’m not wearing them in the other photos in this post, I definitely should have been. These U|R Spliced Leather Gloves are both chic and functional with their pieced construction, a cozy fleece lining, and a stretch-knit palm with secure grippers for extra comfort and usability. Other good options include the luxe Nordstrom Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves, the cozy J.Crew Cashmere tech-touch gloves, and the budget-friendly Quince Mongolian Cashmere Gloves.
U|R Spliced Leather Gloves (S/M) // Andrew Marc coat (S) // Nordstrom Wool & Cashmere Turtleneck (S) // MOTHER The Weekend in Wanted! (29) // similar boots // Hammitt VIP Crossbody
