12 Outfit Ideas for Surviving Bad Winter Weather in Style

Winter can be a tricky season for getting dressed: You spend hours trying to get the perfect look together, only to throw your old winter coat overtop. Your stiletto boots were all fun and games during the fall, but try keeping your balance in them when trudging through slush, ice, and snow. Weather can present major style challenges, and you might find yourself in a rut of wearing the same old outfits that won’t get ruined when you step outside. Fortunately, fashion doesn’t have to go into hibernation just because the weather outside is frightful. Ahead, we’ve found 12 outfits for surviving winter weather in cozy, practical style.

Back to Black 

If you’re not sure what to wear, you can't go wrong with an all-black outfit. Take a page out of Hailey Bieber’s fashion book and go for a complete ensemble of stylish black separates, including a maxi dress, a furry coat, and a pair of sneakers to keep you stable on snowy ground. Putting together an outfit like this is effortless and will keep you warm while looking cool.

Cozy Chic 

While the weather outside may be frightful, a few key styling tricks are sure to make your look delightful. Throw on a trend-forward patterned coat over a matching joggers and bralette set, and you'll have a practical yet fun look that you'll be sure to love.

Stay Neutral 

Even if you’re not into bold prints and bright colors, you can still mix up your style in your neutral palette. Pair a cozy fleece or shearling jacket with a black turtleneck top and some flared jeans that can help you stand out without being overwhelming. 

Bundled Head to Toe 

There’s nothing worse than going out and having your hair get messed up by wind, snow, and rain. Fortunately, balaclava hoods exist and will protect your style from the elements while also keeping your face warm during a wind chill. Paired with an oversized teddy coat and a colorful knit scarf, you can brave bad winter weather in style. 

Casual Comfort 

You never have to choose between fashion and comfort—yes, even in the winter. Even the simplest outfits can shine with the right styling. Pair a half-zip pullover with some baggy jeans and a pair of Ugg boots for an easy, practical outfit that doesn’t sacrifice on style. 

In the Wild 

Can the “leopard print is a neutral” crowd please stand up? This outfit is for you. While most people tend to shift towards black, gray, and white winter jackets as they're easier to style, one can argue that a leopard coat can be both a statement piece and go with most of your outfits. Pair your outerwear with some tall boots and socks for a stylish winter look that's ready to take on the snow, slush, and icy temps. 

Ski Vacation 

You don’t have to actually hit the slopes to enjoy a good ski look. Embrace your inner snow bunny by pairing a long-sleeve catsuit with a puffer vest and matching snow boots for a sleek, stylish moment that will help you stand out from the crowd (and brave any slush that comes your way). 

Double Denim 

Who says that denim jackets are only for fall? Embrace the double denim trend with a long denim coat that can keep you warm, even on snowy days. Pair the piece with your favorite dark wash jeans and some moon boots for an unexpected twist.

Leather Luxe 

A good leather trench coat is in style no matter what kind of weather is outside. However, if you’re wearing one in lower temperatures, remember to layer up with a sweater (or another leather jacket), tall boots, and a cozy beanie to protect you from the cold. Just remember to pack a brush with you to fix your hat hair later. 

Cheerful Coat 

While an all-black look is always a classic, we also love the idea of adding a pop of color. Here, Ashley Graham paired a classic black-on-black formula of a turtleneck and leather pants with a rich purple statement coat, which adds some much-needed brightness to even the grayest of winter days. 

Texture Play

A spell of bad winter weather doesn’t mean you have to stop being playful with your personal style. Instead, think of putting on layers as an opportunity to highlight pieces and elevate winter staples. We love how Yara Shahidi gave a simple gray hoodie a makeover with a short-sleeve puffer jacket and some black-and-white patterned pants for a winter outfit that's ultra-cool but won't have you freezing.

Layer Up

When in doubt, if you don’t know what to wear during bad winter weather, it's always a good idea to layer up. You can't go wrong with your favorite blazer, scarf, and hat, all paired with a cozy coat. While quiet luxury continues to be a major trend, maximalism is just as much on the rise, so mix and match to your heart's content.