Style Scenario: Baby it’s cold outside

What are you going to wear? Sometimes it’s good to look at a few suggestions then add your own tweaks and ideas. That’s what these are for. Even though much of the country hasn’t gotten hit by a deep freeze yet, that doesn’t mean it ain’t comin’. This is that first day when Old Man Winter is extra cranky, and everyone dresses more casually simply because they’re in survival mode. Yet that doesn’t mean you can’t look good while still trying to stay warm. Here’s one way to do it, unless of course, you live in International Falls or Stanley. For extreme temps, remember living > looking good.

The Coat: Banana Republic Wool Blend Topcoat – $178.80 w/ BRNICK ($298). Not as warm as a technical parka, but warmer than the cheaper option from UNIQLO. Depending how you handle the cold, you may need to layer another vest underneath, or bundle up with a heat retaining yet sweat-wicking base layer. Sizes are starting to go fast.

The Hat: Jack Spade Houndstooth Merino Wool Blend Cap – $30.75 w/ TOASTY ($58). A pattern, some color, but nothing over the top. Merino wool blend. Extra 25% off at checkout when you use the code since it’s already on sale.

The Gloves: Suede Shearling & Fleece Lined Gloves – $34.95. Now’s the time to reach for something with a little more insulation. One reviewer says he thinks these are made for Brooks Brothers? They tend to run large.

The Sweater: J. Crew Wallace & Barnes Shetland Wool Cable Crew – $58.80 w/ SHOPNOW ($118). A total classic that while spendy to start, has been getting marked down by 30% – 40% with some regularity as of late, and now way on sale with the code SHOPNOW. It even ships free.

The Pants: Charles Tyrwhitt Grey Moleskin Slim Fit 5-Pockets – $59 ($79). Soft and durable moleskin is good for adding extra warmth during the coldest months. Also available in a more generous classic fit.

The Scarf: Woolovers Cable Knit Lambswool Scarf in Flannel Grey – $17 w/ ALL15W ($40). Inexpensive, all wool, and a color that goes extremely well with the camel shade of the topcoat.

The Watch: Citizen Eco-Drive Field Chronograph – $141.00. An old favorite that’s dependable, casual but still good looking, and powered by light. 40mm in diameter so easy to wear for most wrist sizes. It’s also not overly bulky, and should slip under gloves with ease.

The Socks: Wigwam Merino Wool Comfort Hikers – $10-$15. Long lasting, comfortable, and while they’re much thicker than a dress sock, they’re not so huge that you’ll struggle to get into your shoes. Really good for running too, if you avoid the treadmills at all cost… even during this time of year.

The Boots: Eastland Barron Boot in Oxblood Leather – $125. Not going to deliver Red-Wing like quality, but the price is much more appealing. Good rugged looks too.

The Sunglasses: Ray Ban RB4201 Rubber Aviators – $83.70. More utilitarian looking than standard metal frame aviators. Super lightweight but the build quality is still solid. Matte frames, mirrored lenses. Full review here.