This week we’re taking things back to the basics. As the chilly weather makes it difficult to even get out of bed in the morning, choosing the day’s outfit can be an even harder task. The colder weather also may seem to knock out a lot of your former options, like sundresses and high-waisted shorts, but fear not my fellow fashion mavens: with a few basic pieces you can take your winter wardrobe from drab to fab.

Three words: Chunky. Knit. Sweaters. These pieces will become your best friends in the winter months. Take a trip to the thrift store, grab a few fuzzy knits in neutral colors and start layering. To go for a more preppy look, throw your favorite collared short-sleeve underneath. Looking to bring back those summer dresses? Throw a sweater on top, pair with your cutest boots, and you’re good to go. For those truly unbearable days when the temps are in the teens, add a cozy scarf to your knit to stay toasty warm in the frozen tundra of A-pod.

These may seem like a no-brainer, but stocking up on leggings and tights can revive your seemingly out-of-season wardrobe from the dead. Layering is your best bet once again for surviving the cold months, so pair some colored tights with your favorite skirts and flats for a classy, put-together look. Leggings are not just for bum days anymore: couple your run-of-the-mill black leggings with long sweaters, cardigans, and your choice of jewelry for an easy upgrade to your daily ensemble.

Of course, none of these outfits are complete without the prime shoes of the season: boots. Fitting every style from indie to preppy, from Doc Martens to Steve Maddens, they are the staple of the holiday season. Being a notorious shoe hoarder myself, I would suggest a wide selection of boots in varying heights, colors, and styles, but if you are truly sticking to the basics, invest in a sturdy pair of riding-style black tall boots. With the ability to be dressed up or down depending on your style that day, these boots will function with almost every outfit.

For those lazy mornings when the snooze button becomes your best friend, flat-ironing or blow drying your hair may not be a priority. Also, with the colder weather, your hair can become drier and duller, losing its summertime shine. To save time and your hair, go with a quick and easy top bun for a put-together look. Is your skin suffering from the winter-pale blues? Apply a light coat of bronzer and a burgundy shade of lip stain to finish off  your look with a fresh face, even when you may feel like hiding under the covers forever.

Spice up the gray days of December with your own twists on these winter classics and create a no-stress wardrobe for even the dreariest of days!

Stay fabulous,

Abby