7 Supermodel Secrets to Dressing for the Cold
1/9Warmth or style? That’s the painful choice we often find ourselves making when faced with a really, truly frigid day. Staring down the kind of teeth chattering conditions that make you rub the sides of your arms and hop up and down, it’s easier to see the appeal of giant, overstuffed puffer coat than usual—even if it makes you look like the Michelin Man...after he ate another Michelin Man.
Before things come to that, though, consider a third option: Dressing like a model off-duty. Between winter photo shoots, and dealing with February fashion month’s street style paparazzi (you’ve got to be camera-ready, of course, but still cozy enough to comfortably strike a pose) they’ve got the art of cold weather chic down to an exact science.
Ahead, we’ve looked to seven of our favorite runway fixtures for easy-to-follow tips—read on for the deets!
FilmMagic2/91. Wrap up in a cape.Think of this as a free pass to snuggle up in a giant blanket all day—really! The key to making such a relaxed, free-flowing fit more sophisticated is to follow Cara’s lead, and counter its extra volume with slimmer cut separates.
Getty Images3/92. Add extra-snuggly details.From shearling lining to faux fur trim, a bit of cuddly embellishment makes everything warmer in striking, style-minded way. Take, for instance, the sheepskin inside Karlie’s coat: Not only would the super be shivering without it, but wearing a far less interesting outfit.
GC Images4/93. Throw on some statement fur.Real or faux, fur is one of the toastiest outerwear options around. What’s more, it’s got this inherent drama going on that makes even the most simple, understated pieces feel elevated and luxe; throw it over anything—we especially love the all-black items Kendall went for here—and you’ll be party-ready.
WireImage5/94. Opt for over-the-knee boots.Mini skirt lovers, there’s no need to suffer for your micro hemline habit. As Taylor Hill demonstrates, wearing extra-long leather boots over tights offers almost the same coverage as thick pair of pants. For extra insulation, however, you can always layer yours with leggings or skinny jeans instead.
GC Images6/95. Wear your coat like a cloak.Why hide a killer ensemble if you don’t have to? By draping an open jacket across the back of your shoulder à la Liu Wen, you’ll be able to show off the look you worked so hard to create without completely exposing yourself to the cold.
Getty Images7/96. Layer, layer, layer!Follow Binx’s example, and trying piling together medium weight pieces in place of a parka—the result’s just as effective, but feels extra special. Tip: To avoid bulk, start with thin stretchy fabrics, and build out to heavier materials.
GC Images8/97. Coordinate ahead of time.By planning your outfit around one specific piece of outerwear, like Gigi has here, you’ll keep the finished product from feeling disjointed. In short: Save yourself from changing clothes last minute because none of the coats in your closet seem to work—the worst!
9/9Want more Teen Vogue? Like us on Facebook to stay in the know!
