How To Survive Winter In DC, In Style

Winter in DC can be rough. Living in a cold climate like ours, you have two choices. Hibernate in your home for the winter (which is sometimes an attractive option) or bundle up and go on with life as usual. We have to admit, we do a little of both when the frigid air moves in but like most people we can’t slow down or stop working just because it’s cold outside.

The struggle is real when dressing for the cold weather in a city like ours. There are endless events to attend and to dress for, we are talking: work receptions, happy hours, sporting games, the list goes on and on. And wearing the same old same sweater and parka combo can get pretty mundane and leaves us not only feeling depressed about the bone chilling weather that we are enduring but also with our wardrobes. We have been there, we can sympathize but this year we are making an effort to change it up, to not let winter get the best of us and our wardrobes. Scroll down for a few of our tips on how we survive winter in DC.

Sarah is pictured wearing: Poncho: Zara; Black Sweater: ASOS; Necklace: Coco Blanca; Black Coated Denim: Rag and Bone; Handbag, Proenza Schouler PS1; Fingerless Gloves, Coco Blanca; Sunglasses: Charming Charlie; Black Booties: Rag and Bone. All photos above were taken by Noelle Turbitt of Carrow Vines.

How To Survive Winter In DC, In style

1. Layers: We are huge proponents of layering for all seasons but for winter in our nations capitol, it’s as much about survival as it is about style. Feel free to go nuts with this, all the way from tanks and tees outward to button down shirts (love this one), sweaters, vests, capes and coats. Pile em on! But make sure to put some thought and effort into coordinating your look, otherwise you may find someone’s loose change swimming in the bottom of your peppermint mocha..which can in turn ruin your day.
2. Fun Outerwear: A solid and stylish winter parka is key for cold weather survival but make sure you are using it when it is truly needed, like for example Snowmagedon. Anyone without proper snow-gear during that storm was just straight screwed and probably also missed out on all the booze filled sledding parties as well, no beuno my friend, no beuno. But when we aren’t in the middle of blizzard like conditions, there are so many great options for stylish outerwear this season, from oversized menswear inspired coats to cozy and cuddly capes and everything in between. The cape or poncho is a great addition to your wardrobe because it can be warn over a sweater or even over a jacket for when it is really cold.
3. Boots Options: Having multiple pairs of boots is a must in our climate; we see rain, snow, sleet and slush during the winter. We have it all here, so being prepared with a plethora of footwear is a necessity for life during the dark months. And luckily for us there is no shortage on styles and price points to choose from, so it’s easy to kick up your boot game in no time at all. We have 4 pairs that we generally rotate through: suede booties, snow boots, motorcycle boots, and tall heeled boots. All versatile and can keep your feet dry and warm and most importantly, on trend.
4. Winter Accessories: If investing in a new coat isn’t in the cards this year, don’t fret my dear. A super easy way to spice things up is to add a few new scarves, hats, gloves and socks to your winter arsenal. Be on the look out for plaid prints, shades of gray, and faux fur accessories this season. Most of these items you can find on super sale and can change up a basic outfit instantly.

Bundle up and stay warm!

xoxo

Sarah and Michelle