We are deep into the winter. The wind howls up and down Comm Ave, ruffling skirt hems and sending chills across our cheekbones. The streets are a slushy mess, but we trudge on, swathed in wool and leather, to our classes. It is, perhaps, easiest during these dark months to settle into a uniform of jeans and dark colors, but why spend February in variations of the same humdrum outfit when fashion inspiration is everywhere? These three style icons dress for all seasons with aplomb, but their winter looks are especially great.
1. Leandra Medine, a.k.a The Man Repeller
This girl can layer like nobody’s business. Her hilarious blog manrepeller.com began as a tribute to the fashions that women love and men love to hate, but it has evolved in the past few years into a full-fledged fashion monolith. Medine has risen in the ranks from simple blogger to fashion icon. Medine often gives tutorials on layering that take simple outfits to new heights. Her mille-feuilles approach to dressing is especially great for winter blues; Medine cheerily advocates piling multiple skirts, tops, vests, coats, and accessories on top of one another for an effect that not only screams “fashion!” but also keeps one quite toasty in the Comm Ave wind tunnel. Essential pieces include a furry piece of outerwear (especially Mongolian lamb, although there are many faux fur substitutes which are kinder and less pricey), turbans and other fashionable headgear (bonus: they keep your head warm!), and bright, bright shoes.
2. Karl Lagerfeld
Yep, this one’s a guy! While Karl Lagerfeld has made some interesting decisions over the years both on and off the runways, there is no denying that the man has a signature look and a killer eye for detail. No matter the season, Lagerfeld is always seen wearing sunglasses, rosaries, a buttoned-up coat, a starched collar and fingerless gloves. All in all, a pretty chic little winter look that, with some adjustments, can work on anyone, no matter their gender. Try one or all of his signature elements to inject a little of the designer’s flair, and in the meantime, check out the incredible showing from Chanel’s India-inspired Pre-Fall 2012 show–it’s an unbelievably sumptuous selection. Before you know it, you’ll be channeling the immortal French fashion house like a pro (without the Chanel price tag).
3. Edie Sedgwick
The girl had a vast set of issues, but no one can deny that she could rock a pair of tights. In the hours that she spent with Andy Warhol at The Factory, Edie donned a wide range of eccentric ensembles, but her signature elements included little dresses, dark tights, heavy eyeliner, and enormous, shoulder-dusting earrings. This look, while it does include mini dresses, is certainly suited for winter! After donning a pair of tights or two, wearing a little dress feels stylish and smart, not to mention warm. Throw on a big, flashy coat over it all and embrace your inner artist’s muse.
Remember when dressing for the cold outside that inspiration is everywhere. Get creative with staying warm–it’s so worth it to have fun with what you wear year-round.
