Q. For Christmas, I will be spending a week with my boyfriend and his family in Philadelphia, which is wonderful except for the fact that I’m from Texas and the coldest it ever gets around here is about 60°! What can I wear that will be super cute but still allow me to stay warm?! Oh, and of course because of the bag restrictions I can’t really pack a ton of stuff because of the weight. Every day will be pretty casual except for the night of the Christmas party… Ahhh… I have no idea… PLEASE HELP!
A. The great news is, you can create a week’s worth of outfits with just a few key additions to items you likely already own. Let’s start with your casual attire: the idea is to impress without looking like you are trying too hard. Pack a couple pairs of your favorite jeans and invest in a few chic and cozy sweaters, including a few cardigans that you can layer over some tanks or tees from your closet. Add a pair of ankle boots (which you can easily wear in Texas with jeans or dresses) in a color that works with all of your outfits and some simple but striking jewelry and you’re good to go. Here are 2 casual looks incorporating jeans to give you ideas (both from jcrew.com):
Without knowing how dressy your Christmas party is, your best bet is to pack a cute dress (perhaps something you already own), a pair of tights, some glamorous heels and great jewelry. If your dress is short sleeved or sleeveless (this is perfectly ok by the way, even if the weather is cool), then pack a cashmere cardigan or wrap to ward off the chill.
The only other item you’ll need to pack is a chic but warm coat that easily transitions from day to evening.
dress: Flutter-sleeve dress, $150 at bananarepublic.com; coat: GUESS by Marciano Barrel Shape Coat, $148 at nordstrom.com
