Gearing Up

Winters in Ohio my needs were simple: a pea coat and a nice pair of boots. But Chicago is a whole different ball game when it comes to winter. I'm not comparing it to the Klondike Mountains, but living right off the lake when the wind whips around and knocks you off balance, you only wish you could cherish the gray slush of Columbus. Winter is right around the corner here, and you can tell by chapped lips, hot chocolate cravings, and the Christmas Wreaths already up on State Street. Sheesh. The only thing that helps me look forward to it all is the thought of adding some nice style-staples to my wardrobe...

I think I have the basics nailed down thanks to some thoughtful Christmas gifts, but this year I'd like to step it up a notch, really give winter a what-for while still looking professional and stylish.

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Starting with a chic tailored jacket. Not that I dislike my winter coats, but my pea coat has seen better days. (I have had it since I was a junior in high school...yeah, that's devotion.) But something about the belted military style coats reads classic, sexy, and elegant. Besides which, I saw an uber stylish Chicago-lady wearing one paired with riding boots and wavy ombre ends and I was sold. Obviously I think very highly of Chicago winter style.

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Next come some serious boots. I have my lovely red Hunters courtesy of my Valentine, but some other styles have been catching my eye lately. These Sperry boots are nothing short of ruggedly amazing and the traction on those puppies will be great for slippery surfaces (I think it's safe to liken a wet El floor with a boat dock). The kick-ass classics: Dr. Marten's, and of course the ever-outdoorsy chic L.L. Bean Boots. The navy colored bottoms add the right amount of sharpness.

Lastly, top off your foundation with some luxurious looking accessories. I'm a sucker for lady-like gloves. Velvet scarves have been popping up around town lately, and I don't know if its the stylish elderly women I see on a daily basis, but a turban-style hat would add an elegant and edgy touch.

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I like my pizza like I like my fashion...Chicago Style

Since arriving in the windy city in November and hopping on el's and walking around neighborhoods in December it's been kind of inspiring to see what the women of Chicago are sporting this season. I consider myself an expert on outer wear since my last job was almost exclusively outdoors and I always loved to see what other people are wearing. I've been noticing some common themes going on with Chicago lady's winter fashion, and it has me itching to try some new things...

First and foremost, the Chicago woman is very partial to long coats. It helps keep the cold out, and it also acts as a cushy seat cover when you're on the el. Warm chunky scarves are also popular, bonus points if your scarf matches your hat (or is even in the same color family which I can never seem to do.) Winter make-up is also seemingly minimal here. Just a great moisturizer, a lip chap, and a little mascara will do ya. The wind will take care of the flushed cheeks and sexy messy bedhead look. Although if you're not in to that lots, of girls forgo the hat and leave their hair down, mostly blown out and looking shiny. Although, I've never seen one girl fix their hair on the train, how do they do it?

Boots and a great tote bag are also a woman's best friend around here. The boots fight slushy dirty ground and keep your feet toasty while the tote bag can carry everything from work to the bar and home. Skinny jeans and thick leggings also make it easier to tuck in to boots and create a nice balance from your bulky coat. Tinted lip balm, some eyeliner, throw your hair up in a messy bun and you're all set! Thick infinity scarves also make it easy to wrap and go.



Another popular choice of women that are more, shall we say, employed than I am are pencil skirts or a-line wool skirts with a pair of tights. Sweater tights have become a new going out favorite of mine and a girl at a group job interview told me they're easy to layer under jeans when it starts to get really bitter out. Leather gloves keep it classic and also grip better when the train or bus stops too fast. Berry toned lipstick and the sleek pony tail is just another example of how Chicago women keep it chic and casual.

Inspired to try anything?

Pictures via Polyvore



Fall Picks

Around August when the school supplies are rolling out and summer sundresses start to go on sale, inevitably someone will pipe up and say "I can't wait for Fall!" My knee jerk reaction to this is: "Shut up!"

I love Fall just as much, if not more, than the next woolly sweater wearing, pumpkin carving, apple cider drinking girl on the block, but I spent the whole miserable winter waiting to wear shorts, go to the beach, and couldn't wait to ditch having to take my big heavy coat to the bar. I am going to darn well enjoy every moment of my shaven leg bare armed freedom! Of course last week's Chicago weather hissy-fit started to ease me in to the mind set of chunky knits and waterproof boots. That is why back to school shopping will always exist for me, I need something to ease me in to Fall and the pain of giving up my sundresses and cutoffs.

Fall Picks 


This Fall is about a mix of lady-like structure and sparkle with tomboy style to edge it out, but that tends to be my aesthetic all the time. I'm particularly loving art-deco and costume jewelry, chunky sweaters, lace up boots and printed pants. Did I mention the faux leather? I have little idea what I would pair those pleather shorts with, but I am going to darn well try. I also incorporated some brogue flats, and used trending color oxblood, although my rendition looks more cranberry. I'm still not letting go of my favorite pair of moccasins that I've wanted for months on end now...maybe next week after the rent is paid I'll treat myself!

Are you excited get in to the Fall mood?