If fashion historians were to look back on 2020, we suspect they’d either shake their heads in incredulity or smirk in bemusement at how much we, collectively, fell into a pit of singular dressing: nap dresses (more so designed to be photographed in rather than actually sleep in), tie-dye anything, and sweatsuits saturated in every color imaginable. In our defense, outfitting ourselves in comfort clothing — and participating in a shared fashion experience — is, really, the only way to wield control when life feels completely and utterly chaotic.
That’s not to say this year marks the end of individualistic style. With the end of 2020 fast approaching (subtext: a new year, a clean slate, a glimmer of hope), this is the time to reclaim our stylistic preferences from pre-pandemic times. If not now, then when? To help re-familiarize yourself with non-sweats, we partnered with Cuddl Duds to put together five outfits that both harness the power of layering to keep you warm this winter (without feeling weighed down) and celebrate your personal style.
The Cozy Minimalist
You love: finding comfort in monochromatism, a neutral color palette, and clean lines. Bright colors and patterns intimidate you (or outright frighten you), but, rest assured, your look is anything but boring.
Your outfit: a white turtleneck as your base with warm camel-colored layers on top, made even cozier with delectable textures, like a chunky cashmere sweater and a ribbed knit skirt.
Cuddl Duds Softwear With Stretch Long Sleeve Turtleneck, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Naadam Marled Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, $, available at Naadam
Zara Knit Midi Skirt, $, available at Zara
H&M Wool-blend Coat, $, available at H&M
Brother Vellies Ronstadt Boot in Cognac, $, available at Brother Vellies
The No-Frills Pragmatist
You love: anything that doesn’t get in the way of your busy lifestyle. You don’t have time (nor the patience) to give your outfit more than two minutes of thought. And as someone who runs cold, you especially love layers that promise extra insulation.
Your outfit: no-nonsense layers, complete with a double-breasted coat for a look that’s equal parts polished and casual, making it the perfect ensemble for a day of errands.
Cuddl Duds Softwear With Stretch Long Sleeve Crew, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Cuddl Duds Fleecewear With Stretch Full Zip Vest, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Mango Wool double-breasted coat, $, available at Mango
Cuddl Duds Double Plush Velour Legging, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Cuddl Duds Womens Chunky Braid Texture Knee High Sock, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Vans Old Skool Sneakers, $, available at Vans
The Loud-And-Proud Maximalist
You love: colors (the brighter, the better), patterns, and unexpected combos. You thrive off of bold and exciting outfits. To put it plainly, you’re an exhibitionist.
Your outfit: print meets fluorescent hues with a cheetah-print base layer and neon pink pants. Anyone can wear a coat in the winter, but what about a shin-length puffer vest in pearlescent white? That’s all you.
Cuddl Duds Softwear With Stretch Long Sleeve Crew, $, available at Cuddl Duds
TNA The Super Puff™ Long Vest, $, available at Aritzia
Christopher John Rogers Neon wool-blend pants, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Loq Monica Boot in Crema Crinkle Patent, $, available at LoQ
The Great Outdoorswoman
You love: the wilderness. Even though you may be a city dweller, you get a kick out of applying aspects of your mountaineering look to your everyday life (the idea being: If it can withstand an arduous hike, then it can certainly weather a leisurely walk in the snow).
Your outfit: a solid foundation of base layers (a wear-everywhere henley and cozy plaid leggings) embellished with key add-ons, like an oversized fleece (pro tip: shop the men’s section) and cool trek-inspired lugsole boots.
Cuddl Duds Softwear With Stretch Ribbed Long Sleeve Henley, $, available at Cuddl Duds
CBAAF Oatmeal Hoodie, $, available at CBAAF
Patagonia Men’s Classic Retro-X® Fleece Jacket, $, available at Patagonia
Cuddl Duds Softwear With Stretch High Waist Legging, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Nomasei Slalom boots in white, $, available at Nomasei
The Romantic Botanist
You love: diaphanous dresses, dreamy colors, and flowers (it’s your favorite print) — a style ethos that’s pretty much directly at odds with winter.
Your outfit: a cold-weather version of something you’d wear in the summer (a pretty sheer dress, flower-pressed earrings, and baby yellow slingbacks), with the help of fleece base layers.
Cuddl Duds Fleecewear With Stretch Long Sleeve Crew, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Ganni Organza Dress, $, available at Ganni
Cuddl Duds Fleecewear With Stretch Legging, $, available at Cuddl Duds
Dauphinette Woodland Orchid Earring, $, available at Dauphinette
& Other Stories Relaxed Single Breasted Coat, $, available at & Other Stories
Yuul Yie Zizi Sling-Backs Baby Yellow, $, available at W Concept
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?