Moncler jacket, Alexander McQueen handbag

It’s not easy to look chic in freezing cold temperatures. But you can’t let the weather stop you from trying. Here are some of my tips for staying warm while still maintaining personal style…

A chic coat is essential – it’s the centerpiece of your winter wardrobe. You may be wearing a gorgeous sweater, dress or jewels underneath, but the coat is what everyone sees. It’s important to invest in a warm beautiful coat that you love – and one that’s well-made. I don’t worry about what’s trendy – I pick something unique and luxurious that will last through the years. And sure enough, I still wear some of my favorite coats from decades past.

Right now, I’m in love with Moncler. As I noted in my recent Holiday Gift Guide, this classic outerwear label is having a renaissance. They’ve transformed their puffy version of the ski jacket into something totally glamorous. I bought their grey wool day jacket, above, at Dover Street Market this past fall. The entire Gamme Rouge collection is to-die-for – see some of the images below.

Moncler Gamme Rouge collection

Missoni fox fur jacket, Dolce & Gabbana gloves

Fur is one of the best ways to combat the cold while looking chic. I like something a little different from the usual furs you see around. This Missoni cropped fox fur is perfect – it goes with everything and I get compliments all the time.

Sable fur coat by B.Smith Furs

A more classic look is my full length sable fur. This is for frigid weather – it is so warm. It’s also great for evening, if you are heading somewhere formal in a dress and stockings but need to keep warm en route. I got this at B.Smith Furs in New York many years ago.

Alexander McQueen coat, Maison Fabre gloves

Of course, my Alexander McQueen houndstooth. Love it. It has an interesting silhouette and is very warm. Don’t be afraid of a pattern – find something that looks good on you and go with it!

Gianni Versace jacket and Hermès silk scarf, with designer Albert Kriemler of Akris

Don’t shy from color either. Winter wardrobe tends to be so monochromatic and I love to mix it up with something vibrant. This lime green down jacket with lace overlay is a Gianni Versace that I bought nearly 20 years ago – and I still wear it today.

Trying on gloves with Mary Beyer at her salon

Leather gloves lined with cashmere are a must. I have a chic, versatile pair of black full length gloves by Dolce & Gabbana. And a purple ruffle pair by Maison Fabre, an artisan glove boutique located in the Palais Royale in Paris. Gloves are a great way to add a punch of color to your look. I’m hoping to get back to Mary Beyer to customize a pair. They are the epitome of chic – and comfortable, too.

Boots by René Caovilla

Leather knee high boots, preferably lined with fleece, are a good way to go for footwear. These boots by René Caovilla are a clever way to layer in the cold. I bought them in Milan – just thought they were so chic – I couldn’t resist. They’re like another layer over stockings. They look great with a short skirt, but can also give an outfit with pants some extra panache.

Close-up on the René Caovilla boots

Wearing a YSL silk scarf, with John Galliano

I’ve collected many silk scarves over the years – I’ll wear them with a cashmere separate underneath my coat – they add a light layer. Sometimes I’ll borrow my husband’s Dunhill scarf. It’s fun to experiment with different looks in your accessories. I’m currently searching for the perfect big tall fur hat – haven’t found it yet – but take note – earmuffs are never chic – sorry!