It’s been cold, arguably freezing for Louisiana, as fall turns into winter. With the change of weather comes a need for a change in wardrobe. When it comes to winter clothes, two of the most important things to remember are warmth and style. Here are a few outfit ideas to keep your winter wardrobe practical and pretty.

Long skirts and sweaters

Two of the arguably best universal pieces for a winter wardrobe are long skirts and sweaters. Both are easy pieces that can be added to any outfit, perfect for blocking the cold. One can never go wrong with a nice sweater, and skirts bring a winter charm no one can disagree with.

Boots

When it comes to locating the perfect boot, you don’t always have to drop hundreds of dollars online. It might take a little bit of trial and error, but thrift stores — especially Goodwill — often hold the holy grails of boots. I am always a proponent for affordable and sustainable ways to add to a wardrobe, and this is one of them. Whether they are Uggs, knee high leather boots, moon boots or docs, boots are always a great way to keep your feet warm and add style to an outfit.

Leg warmers

In a world of boring and cold outfits, try something new and add some leg warmers. Bring some balletcore into your life by adding on top to any outfit. Leg warmers look especially good when layering them on or in boots, as well as with tights and skirts.

Layers

Colder weather is great until your style is killed by the need to be warm. Instead of resigning yourself to the land of warm practicability, remember to layer. Some fleece lined tights or a simple long sleeve shirt can do wonders. Adding layers of shirts, sweaters or jackets can not only keep you warm, but make your outfits much more interesting.

The magic of a good scarf

Some days may be colder than others, but something to remember is that a scarf can help pull any look together. Instead of relying on a sweatshirt or sweater, wear a knit or wool sweater to add just the right amount of warmth to a winter outfit.

Afghan coats

For many, they may be known as something else, maybe a penny lane coat, but the original comes from Afghanistan. Popularized during the 60s and 70s by artists like the Beatles, Afghan coats have become one of the most stylish coats of the season. Adding a coat to some jeans and a top, a dress or a simple hippie look can do absolute wonders.

Winter capes

It may seem kind of unserious and for some, too extra, but winter capes and coats can be interesting and bring a little bit of whimsy to an outfit. It goes well with layering for other outfits, and it’s much less restricting than a normal coat.

Something for the top

Protection from the cold doesn’t just stop with coats, it’s important to protect your head and hands. Ear muffs are always a cute addition to a winter outfit. And there are plenty of different hats to wear in order to stay warm. Beanies, and trapper hats are always nice, but fisherman hats are a stylish kind of hat that is coming back in style.

When searching for new items, some of the best places to look are stores that are second hand. Going to sites like Depop and Etsy, you’re more likely to find better quality and vintage pieces that will last much longer than fast fashion pieces. In the cold days to come, have fun with what you wear!

For more outfit inspo, I created the perfect wintery Pinterest board.