Easy Modest Winter Layering Ideas

Easy Modest Winter Layering Ideas

Winter is rearing its ugly head again this year and if there is anything I disliked (growing up in the Midwest) it’s the cold, a lot. I know I’m making the unavoidable sound so dire seeing as it rolls around every year yet I still dread it. It’s hard to look chic and sophisticated when you are wearing a ski hat, a bulky sweater, mittens and snow boots!

The thing is, I dress modestly and that includes no pants! Over the years I found it is truly is possible to stay warm in a skirt in the winter months – and still look stylish by layering! This winter there are plenty of different ways to layer your outfits to create some great on-trend looks. Whether you prefer light layers or heavy statement looks, there’s no end to the choices you have when it comes to creating a layered outfit this winter. Here are some of my go-to solutions:

Cropped Jackets over Long Layers:

Pair a cropped puffer or denim jacket over a long cardigan or tunic. This creates a visually interesting contrast of lengths and textures. Pair this with a pencil skirt either knee length or midi. Keep the waist area defined while staying modest and cozy.

Dresses over Pants:

Layer a cozy sweater dress over slim-fit trousers, leggings or fitted wide-leg knit pants. Add a belt to cinch the waist if needed. Fleece-lined leggings or tights under skirts or dresses add warmth without adding bulk.

Color Blocking:

Work a different take on color blocking by layering some colorful garments. Don’t shy away from bright hues this winter – adding splashes of color (even with black) to your look will liven up an outfit. Just remember to choose complementary colors and limit it to two or three hues

Oversized Scarves as Ponchos:

Use a large wool or cashmere scarf draped over your shoulders like a cape, securing it with a brooch or belt. These offer a cozy and stylish alternative to bulky coats, especially if you like a looser silhouette.

Skirted Leggings:

Opt for leggings with attached skirt overlays, paired with knee-high boots. Add a tailored coat for structure. This adds depth and keeps a sporty, cool aesthetic.

Layered Shirts and Sweaters:

Wear a long sleeve shell under a button-down shirt, then layer with a knit vest or oversized sweater. Keep the shirt’s collar and hem peeking out for dimension. The tailored layers and a smart combinations of textures can match your preferences for minimalism with a creative twist.

 

When looking at layering tips for winter, it always a good idea to do trial runs beforehand to make sure your outfits really work. These are just some ideas for you to consider when it comes to winter layering tips. Get excited about winter fashion and have a really “cool” winter!

Black Friday Online Shopping Tips!

Black Friday Online Shopping Tips!

Can you believe it’s the end of November already?

Do you know what that means? Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza, etc. and time that I can see all my family or friends and eat lots of food without being judged. There’s that, sure.

Know what else?

Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping deals! I love to do all my shopping online! No crowded stores or stress and I can find just what I want at my fingertips. Here are 6 tips to help you keep calm and shop efficiently and make the most out of your online shopping:

Make a List and Determine a Budget

  • Who is on your gift list? Do they wear modest clothing or special sizes?
  • Write down what you need to avoid impulse buys. Include gift ideas, personal needs, or big-ticket items.
  • Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend overall and on specific items.
  • Create Accounts in Advance: Register on your favorite sites and save your shipping/payment details to speed up checkout.
  • Sign Up for Emails: Many retailers send early deals and discount codes to subscribers.

Do Your Research

  • Start Early: Deals often start the week of Black Friday, so check early access sales.
  • Use Wish list Features: Add desired items to wish lists or carts to monitor price changes.
  • Use Social Media, Instagram Facebook, YouTube and X advertise their BLACK Friday deals too.
  • Check Shipping dates and fees.
  • Check Return Policies: Ensure the store allows easy returns or exchanges in case the gift doesn’t fit or isn’t to their liking.

Lookout for Scams or Disreputable Websites

  • Stick to well-known retailers or verified online marketplaces.
  • Look for “https://” and a padlock icon in the URL to ensure the site is secure.
  • Use Secure Networks: Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi; use a private, secure internet connection.
  • Read reviews to gauge reliability and product quality. (Don’t forget Seller Reviews too)
  • Look for a physical address and contact information.
  • Beware of deals too good to be true.

Stay Organized

  • Track Your Orders: Save confirmation emails and track shipping dates to ensure everything arrives on time.
  • Use a Password Manager: Securely save your login details to avoid resetting passwords last minute.
  • Avoid Buyer’s Remorse: Sleep on big purchases overnight if you’re unsure; many deals last through Cyber Monday.
  • Use a Shopping Email Address: Create a dedicated email for newsletters, deals, and confirmations to keep things separate and organized.

Don’t Forget Yourself!

  • Catch up on some of fall’s top trends that you missed out on.
  • Now is the time to get that cute and comfy dress while it is discounted and in your size!
  • Have a consolidated wish list of your own on a word document with links to those items
  • Shop your closet first, don’t duplicate items you already have or have never worn.
  • Know Your Key Measurements: Bust, waist, hips, inseam, and shoulder width.
  • Pay attention to reviews from people with a similar body type to yours.

 

Be Flexible

  • Have a “B” List of alternative gifts
  • Be flexible with colors and patterns, brands or shopping sites.
  • Consider less-known or local brands that offer good quality but might not yet be mainstream
  • Adjust your budget as necessary
  • Consider Gift cards for the person who is hard to buy for.

A few other “Pro” tips:

Take breaks away from your computer and don’t forget self-care. It’s good to price compare, but don’t overdo it and make yourself crazy in the process.  Celebrate Small Wins: Appreciate the deals you got rather than stressing over missed ones. By staying organized and focused, you can make Black Friday online shopping a smooth and enjoyable experience!

YES!!! — Winter Layers Without the Bulk

YES!!! — Winter Layers Without the Bulk

Some women love it when the mercury drops, because it gives them a chance to wear those heavy-duty sweaters that only come out of the closet during the coldest months of the year.

Not me.

I make my clothing decisions based on both modesty, and on my personal fashion sense. Personally, I feel prettier when my clothes offer a sleek, feminine line. And guess what? Despite the red-carpet images sold to us by Madison Avenue and Hollywood – shivering celebrities in barely-there evening gowns come to mind – we women can dress fashionably in winter… and stay warm!

Women’s Tunic Top – Short Front Long Back

Lovely Layers

Let’s go from the bottom up. Modest dressers can stay toasty by relying on three-quarter and long-sleeved shell tops. These items – which, during the summer months, help bridge the gap between an outfit’s too-low necklines or too-short sleeves, and our desired coverage level – do double-duty in winter. Not only do they keep us cozy and warm, they can also add a fashionable dash of color.

When choosing what to go on top of that first layer, I like to reach for something with a graceful, interesting shape – like an unbalanced hemline or mullet cut tunic. Both these tops look great over a boot-length skirt.

Loose Knit Cardigan with Pockets

Loose Knit Cardigan with Pockets

Topping it Off

There are lots of fashion-conscious options for top layers (not to be confused with outerwear; see below) in winter. From open-front cardigans to belted sweaters, they give me a modestly feminine shape, while keeping me warm.

Stepping Out

Of course, winter weather requires a winter coat. But if you’re like me, while you don’t want to freeze, you don’t want to look like the Michelin Man, either. High-tech fabrics like Thinsulate keep the bulk down, so making belted outerwear a pretty option. So ladies, remember: whatever the forecast, think fashion!

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