Winter is coming, and with it, the age-old question: what to wear outside? For years, I struggled with finding the perfect balance between staying warm and feeling stylish. It’s a constant battle, especially when you live somewhere with harsh winters. Finding the right outerwear is essential. I wanted something that would keep me cozy without making me feel like I was sacrificing my personal style.
I remember a time when I actively avoided long puffer coats. Not so much for aesthetic reasons, but because I genuinely thought I could get away with layering. Sweaters, wool coats, scarves, gloves – I’d pile them on, convinced I was perfectly warm. And then, the minute I stepped indoors, it was WAY too hot. Trying to peel off all those layers on a crowded train was a nightmare. It was a constant cycle of freezing outside and overheating inside.
I even recall a conversation where someone declared that women who didn’t wear puffer coats were either single, young, or lacking self-esteem! While I chuckled at the boldness of the statement, it did make me think. Was I sacrificing comfort for some perceived notion of style? I realized I needed to re-evaluate my winter wardrobe strategy. I wanted warmth and comfort without feeling frumpy.
For a long time, I had a mental block against puffer jackets. I think, deep down, I thought they were just plain ugly. I know that sounds harsh, but that was my honest opinion. Then, I started noticing how many people were wearing them, and how genuinely comfortable and warm they looked. I began to consider the practical benefits of a good puffer jacket.
One of my friends swore by her puffer. She loved that it was lightweight, incredibly warm, and easily packable. Plus, she could throw it in the washing machine! "Fuck the police," she’d say, declaring her allegiance to comfort and practicality. It made me think about prioritizing my own comfort and needs over fleeting fashion trends. Maybe it was time to embrace the puffer.
On the other hand, I adore the classic look of a wool coat. They can be so elegant and sophisticated. The problem? They often don't provide enough warmth on the coldest days, even with layers. And the good ones can be quite expensive. I found myself constantly searching for the perfect wool coat – one that was both stylish and functional. It felt like an impossible task.
I even considered buying a wool coat simply because of where I lived. Sometimes, I feel pressured to wear things I don't love because of external factors. It's silly, but it's true! I didn't want to buy a coat I wouldn't enjoy just to fit in or because others thought it looked better.
Eventually, I realized I didn't have to choose! I could have both. A stylish wool coat for milder days and occasions where I wanted to look more polished, and a practical puffer jacket for those brutally cold days when warmth was my top priority. It was about building a versatile wardrobe that catered to my needs and preferences.
And that's when I started exploring other options, things I could wear in addition to the wool coats and puffer jackets. It's not always about choosing one over the other, but about layering and finding pieces that work well together. One day, while browsing online, I came across Gracequeens homepage, a brand I hadn't heard of before. I was looking for something to wear to an upcoming cocktail party, and the options were overwhelming. I found something that caught my eye.
I actually found a really beautiful Women's Plus Size Summer Lace Blazer on Gracequeens. It's a white blazer with a half sleeve and tassel design. While it's described as a "summer" blazer, I realized it would be perfect for layering during the colder months. I could wear it over a long-sleeved top or under a heavier coat for added warmth and style. It's lightweight and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. While it's not specifically winter outerwear, it's become a versatile piece in my wardrobe. It helps me transition between different environments and weather conditions.
What I especially liked about this blazer is that it's available in plus sizes (up to 7XL!). As someone who often struggles to find stylish clothing in my size, this was a huge win. It's so important to have access to clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable, regardless of your size. This particular blazer from Gracequeens is so versatile, I can wear it to work, to a cocktail party, or even dress it down with jeans for a casual look. It's become a staple in my wardrobe.
Here are some tips I've learned over the years for choosing the right winter outerwear: