3 Go-To Fall & Winter Combos

By Brian Maynor

 

Now that weather seems to have turned, it’s time to start pulling out more of our warmer, comfort pieces.

The trick to maintaining your signature style is to know how to wear them.  Some of the most common options we see are turtlenecks under blazers or suits and oxfords under sweaters and coats.  Those are perfectly fine choices and while traditional they aren’t very exciting.  Other people like to simply throw on a huge jacket over anything and call it a day while others forego overcoats in favor of scarves, hats and gloves.

All of those options are effective ways to keep you warm, but after a while they can get pretty boring.  Keep the excitement alive in your quest for warmth this season with a few of my favorite cool weather combos that offer variety and function:

1.    A denim jacket under another jacket.  This should come as no surprise to loyal readers because I use this styling trick a lot.  Jean jackets are perfect for our winters.  They retain body heat, keeping us warm and last forever.  Since I’m a fan of layering them rather than using them as a standalone piece, I always recommend slim fit, lightweight ones.  This way, when you wear another jacket over them you’re not creating more bulk.  Since most jackets tend to be generously sized, you should have no trouble playing around with this combo.  Overcoats, bomber jackets and even Adirondack jackets work great, and all create very different looks.  So whether you’re spending the day outdoors, shopping or simply meeting friends for lunch, this will definitely become one of your essential styles.

2.    A hoodie and an overcoat.  Weekends are intended for relaxing and ditching the weekday formality, but sometimes wearing just a sweatshirt can feel a bit lazy or even frumpy.  Update your comfort-wear with a quality hoodie.  They retain the comfort of a sweatshirt, and look ten times more stylish when worn under an overcoat.  The overcoat brings the structure and elevation the hoodie can’t achieve on its own, and that’s true whether you are wearing joggers, jeans or chinos.  While there is only so far you can take this elevation, it’s perfect for a cozy brunch, walking the dog or just making a coffee run.

3.    Thin performance vest and jacket.  Whether you prefer fleece or a down puffer vest, they are very effective at keeping your core warm.  That’s why you see them a lot in athletic and outdoor shops, but those aren’t the only ways to wear them.  You can transition this active piece to a more city vibe by pairing it with a wool coat or even a parka.  And the aesthetic can be sophisticated if you stick with a muted palette of blues, greys, black and earth tones.

Even though our winters are fairly mild, cold weather is a very polarizing thing.  You either love it and embrace the challenge of finding cute and inventive ways to stay warm, or you hate it and simply want to bundle up and hide as they wait for spring.   Either way with these combos you can at least take comfort knowing you’ll look good for the whole season.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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