It’s that time of year in St. Louis, when the winter temperature drops from ‘Wow, I definitely need a coat’ to ‘Making us go to school in this weather is cruel and unusual punishment.’ And when it gets this cold, it’s difficult to leave the house wearing anything besides fuzzy sweatpants and two layers of hoodies. But just because the idea of a semi-tolerable winter is out the window doesn’t mean your style has to go out with it. In this type of weather, layers are your best friend. Not only do they offer warmth and comfort, if chosen properly, they keep you from looking like an idiot in public.

Start with a collared shirt and sweater or just a thick, loose sweater with leggings or jeans. Once you’ve chosen your regular outfit, it’s time to choose the important part, your coat and winter accessories. When it comes to coats, you have so many options. You can go with a simple pea coat, parka, puffer coat, all of which vary in length or pattern. If you chose a pea coat, adding a tartan or plaid scarf adds a preppy feel to your outfit. But if you’re going for a sportier look, go for a puffer coat and a knitted infinity scarf will still keep you warm. As for gloves and hats, solid colors are best because you can get one color and wear it with multiple coats and outfits. A parka is a good mix between a pea coat and puffer coat so you can wear printed or solid scarves in any style.

So, no matter how cold it gets this winter, you’ll be able to stay stylish and classy in this StL cold!