The mercury’s dropping, the leaves are falling and Christmas music has begun playing on repeat in stores all around the country; which can mean only one thing: winter is upon us. Have you been unsure of when to prep your winter wardrobe because of the season’s slow approach this year? Well, now it’s that time! And to help keep you “hot” and away from “not” this season I’ve put together a little list:

1. Everyone needs a coat to brave the elements during winter, but that doesn’t mean you have to choose a coat that makes you look like a marshmallow. Go for a military inspired coat instead, they have an abundance of pockets and fun button details and the neutral olive green is just as wearable, but way more fun than drab winter black.  If military isn’t your bag, get a coat that’s well tailored and highlights a fun textural design detail, like subtle quilting in a diamond pattern or herringbone.
2. Get yourself a chunky knit cowl. Scarves can be finicky to tie and arrange stylishly around your neck. The answer: a cowl. They’re knit in a circle so you can wrap them to stay warmly around you while looking cozy, cute and put together.
3. This year, forget about the typical all black winter uniform. Color blocking will lift your spirits on those gloomy, slushy streets, winter days. Pick solid brightly colored pieces; that pop and mix them with other solid colored pieces. The point is not necessarily to match but to use colors that blend because of their similar saturation level or color story (like the colors of a sunset or primary colors). And don’t forget that your shoes and purse can add great pops of color as well.
4. All this layering, is no excuse to hide your gorgeous bod entirely. Sexy sheer blouses are perfect for under a cashmere cardigan or beneath that open weave sweater. Pick a feminine floral print or a skinny horizontal stripe to add some interest to your look.
5. I hinted at this in tip #4, but if you’re gonna wear so many articles of clothing anyway, you should have fun with texture. Wear chunky knits over silky blouses, or cable knit tights tucked into smooth leather boots, or a jean jacket over a flannel. The possibilities are endless.
6. Cold ears are totally “not” this winter. Grab yourself an adorable pair of earmuffs and you can’t go wrong. Earmuffs have a retro feel, they keep you warm and they’re totally affordable! Hats work too, but we all know they’ll flatten your hair on the way to work in the morning.
7. If you haven’t jumped on this bandwagon already get yourself a pair (or more!) of natural waist pants. They’re a perfect excuse to expand your belt collection, you never have to worry about accidentally flashing your thong, you wont have a strip of cold between your shirt and your pants and they’re totally flattering. If you ever manage to take that perfect jacket of yours off, you’re bound to get compliments.
8. Last a friendly reminder: save the hearts, stars and cartoon printed rubber boots for your 8yr old niece.  You don’t have to sacrifice to class and aesthetics to stay warm and dry. 

Now print this list and head to the store. Or stay at the computer if you’re an online shopper! Either way, you’re in for one “hot” winter.

Read more fashion articles by Sarah at:  www.radmads.com

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