Snow arrived to blanket my mountainous Vermont world, and if winter follows tradition, all will stay covered until April. So what to do while a chill blows and daylight flits by in a flash? Keep your chin up and your looks fresh. Embrace the garb of the season. Toss a red scarf around your neck, a brighter hue on your lips, and head outside to revel in all nature brings your way.

For day wear I donned patterned leggings over a dress by L’AGENCE. If you don’t know the designs of Margarel Maldonado, search out her latest collection. Her philosophy suits today’s reality, “Maldonado wanted to pair the finest fabrications with modern, yet classic silhouettes to create luxury that was affordable. A firm believer in elements of enduring style–fabric and its hand, combined with great fit–L’AGENCE sets out to create styles that remain in a woman’s wardrobe year-after-year” (L’AGENCE). My just-the-right-shade of red scarf is an Eileen Fisher.

Simple elegance works no matter the hour so why not add a string of pearls to your daytime outfit?  I love how they warm around my neck, even on the coldest of days, easily becoming a constant winter accessory. My vintage bakelite bangle adds pop while my vintage lace-up boots ground the pattern of my leggings. Classic is classic.

I love to add something vintage into my mix such as this 100% cashmere coat with mink collar (my only fur purchases are vintage) which I found while combing through a LA thrift store last month. Keeping me toasty from my neck to below my knees, this new treasure is a welcome shift away from the sea of down coats lining every department store. My felt black hat (another break from the pompom beanies you see everywhere on everyone), matches my short boots and knock-off Chanel purse. Nowadays, a woman looks as if she is ready to move in, with a purse the size of an overnight bag; for now, I will love my compact day purse but look forward to the day when I acquire a real Chanel!

Hair up or down, no matter, but keep it healthy! During the winter months especially I am a fan of hair oil; my best results come from Shu Uemura, “The soft-sleek velvety oil creates a supple touch with high shine and provides UV protection.” There is no substitute for a great cut or color either. Find the right stylist and stick with her/him. My gal has catered to my changing whims (and steered me from disastrous requests) helping me look my best for years; if you’re passing through Burlington Vermont, check out her shop, Di Moda Salon.

For nighttime gatherings, under every demure coat, there needs to be a dress worth remembering, and this embellished black tunic from French Connection‘s holiday collection is party ready. I love the uneven hem, the subtle shine from the flat studs, the movement of the layered chiffon; yes I plan to wear this one to several winter celebrations.

Accessories are the best way to personalize your look. Years ago I found this gem of a beaded necklace, the small glass green beads form a long knotted cord that I pull out of my jewelry box for special nights. If you are fortunate to have an inherited piece, this is the time to don it. My heirloom Dinh Van for Cartier ring adds sparkle; every day in December I find a reason to wear it. Tis the Season, right?

Look back over 2014 and congratulate yourself for all you have accomplished. Thank those who have held each door for you to walk through. Each of us makes a difference day to day and that’s worth a nod. Give praise. Give hugs. Raise your glass for the Holidays are here and it’s time to make Merry!

**Photos by Mj