Today's Outfit: Baby It's Cold Outside

A while ago a reader asked me how I dressed for the cold and layered without bulking up. Here are my rules of thumb for getting dressed on brisk mornings:

1. Fabrication matters. Silk, angora, lambswool, merino wool, and cashmere are all good materials to look for in tops, sweaters, and sweater dresses.
2. Wool coats should have an interlining (a thin insulating layer between the outer wool layer and the inner silky lining). Unfortunately many fast fashion retailers don't take this extra step of putting in an interlining, so a quality winter coat that will keep you warm will also cost a pretty penny.
3. Opt for fine knits that fit close to the body instead of chunky ones.
4. Layer a cami under thin tops or sweater dresses for extra warmth.
5. Don't underestimate the power of accessories. Boots, cozy socks, scarves, gloves, earmuffs, and hats will keep your head and extremities feeling toasty when you're out and about.

To illustrate, here's an outfit I wore during a recent cold snap in Vancouver and what I layered on top.

• Banana Republic merino wool cardigan
• Forever 21 plaid shirt
• Uniqlo denim leggings
• t o o d l e s by Toodlebunny cameo earrings
• Timex watch
• O by Oscar de la Renta floral silk scarf (wrapped around my neck to keep myself extra warm under my coat's foldover collar)

• Soia & Kyo wool coat
• Vintage Coach bag
• Lola Home & Apparel brooch
• Fine Finds earmuffs
• Cynthia Rowley gloves
• Kate Spade rainboots

What are your secrets for staying warm when the temperature drops?