Outfits

a few easy ways to elevate casual winter outfits

01.28

[halves]Merritt Beck wearing Club Monaco's Black Jemma Coat in New York
Merritt Beck wearing Club Monaco's Black Jemma Coat in New York[/halves]

Merritt Beck wearing Club Monaco's Black Jemma Coat in New York

I can’t believe it, but I totally forgot to share this outfit from my New York trip in December… It’s actually perfect timing though, considering both the coat is now on sale!! As we’re in the midst of the coldest time of year, we tend to throw on whatever is warmest regardless of whether we look cute or not. That’s why you might occasionally see me in my UGG boots when taking my trash out or picking up deliveries at the UPS store… the horror!! If you’re like me and prefer to look polished when out and about, here are some easy ways to elevate even your most casual, cozy ensembles:

TIP ONE: ADD A BELT

In addition to drawing attention to and cinching in your waist, belts are a great way to add a sophisticated touch to your outfit. They effortlessly tie your whole look together, and with the variety of belt styles available these days you can really get creative! For something extra special, try an embellished belt or interesting belt buckle like this, this or this. All are so cute and under $100! Shop even more beautiful belts below:

TIP TWO: SWAP OUT YOUR EVERYDAY TOTE FOR A TRENDY BAG

I’m a minimalist, at least when it comes to what I carry in my handbag. I do NOT like to carry a mountain of items I have to sift through. I try to trim it down to just the basics unless I’m traveling: wallet, phone, keys, lipstick/lip gloss, sunglasses, and that’s about it. With that mindset, I rarely ever have to carry a large tote bag everywhere I go and often find them cumbersome if I don’t need to be wearing a bag that big for any particular reason. If you’re like me and don’t necessarily need a huge tote that day, swap it for a cute mini bag or a trend piece that will add interest to your outfit. I love totes, but most tote styles scream “casual” – if you want to dress up your outfit, swap out your bag. Shop some of my favorite of-the-moment bags under $200 below:

TIP THREE: OPT FOR A TAILORED COAT OR ONE WITH SPECIAL DETAILS

Even if you’re wearing the simplest sweater and distressed jeans, a nice, tailored coat or a style with a special detail (like these gold buttons!) will add instant polish to your everyday basics. Oversized coats can be great for creating a cool street style look, but they often look super dressed down… at least to me! Whether you choose a sleek wrap coat or a military style a la Meghan Markle, a pretty coat like the ones below will be a surefire way to elevate your look. Shop some of my favorite coat styles that exude elegance at every price point below:

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