For all of us living here in sunny Southern California, putting together a look for an average winter day requires a whole lot of forethought. Things can go from 88º and sunny to 48º and overcast in the time it takes to walk home from dinner, and that's before factoring in the mighty marine layer that hangs over practically all of the Westside. We may not need weatherproof pieces quite like my fellow editors in NYC and London, but you'll never spot us stepping outside without some strategic (and stylish) layering.
Since I've been getting a little bored of the standby staples that have made far too many appearances in my feed thus far this winter, I've been turning to my Who What Wear colleagues for divine inspiration. There's one person, in particular, with a notoriously strong layering game, and that's my friend and our senior graphic designer, Natalia Styzk. She generously offered to share the two key looks she's wearing all over L.A. this season, care of the brand behind so many L.A. favorites: Free People. Read on to see how she's styling cozy puffers, western boots, the ultimate '90s jeans, and so much more.
Maxi Sweaterdress + Turtleneck + Long Quilted Puffer
Like I said, whether you're exploring the Venice flea market on a Sunday morning or commuting to work in Downtown Los Angeles, you've got to be prepared. I'm loving the long black and white layers Natalia has paired together, and I just might have the quilted maxi puffer in my cart as we speak. The length, the color, the weight—it's no wonder that it's one of Free People's most popular items. It's easy to throw on over a cute dress (see above), but it's also the perfect way to spruce up any basic jeans-and-sweater look. What I'm trying to say is, it's a winter essential.
It's just so good.
Comfortable but chic.
Everyone needs a basic black top.
Goodbye, boring white socks.
This fringe wrap looks rich.
These go-with-everything boots will last for seasons to come.
Cardigan + Jeans + Statement Scarf
There's no off-duty outfit more quintessentially L.A. than a white base layer and some relaxed, vintage-inspired jeans, and I’m especially enamored with Natalia's inspired winter-ready additions. The oversize cardigan and knit scarf (dare I say blanket?) are giving off ultra-cozy vibes, and the western-inspired boots take the whole look to stylish new heights. IMO, adding cowboy boots to any 'fit makes it feel that much cooler. I don't think there's anything that screams "fashion person" louder than cowboy boots.
The black is so good, but there is a light purple pair that deserves to be recognized.
Obsessed.
It's not just a turtleneck. It's a bodysuit turtleneck.
Ultimate cool vibes.
Adding a bit of color is never a bad idea.
So cute.
The perfect finishing touch.
Shop More Must-Have Pieces From Free People
A versatile off-duty piece you'll wear all winter long.
Fashion people are obsessed with Birkenstock.
Goes with, well, just about everything.
Classic.
A chic layering piece.
We're living in cashmere from now until spring.
For the sunnier seasons to come.
Perfectly festive, don't you think?
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