It’s The New Year, What Are We Wearing? | Volume 2, Issue 7

There is an undeniable electricity in the air when the calendar turns. It’s more than just a date change; it’s a seismic shift in our internal narrative. As we step into this New Year, we aren’t just making resolutions—we are reclaiming our space, our power, and our presence. This is the season of the ‘Fresh Start,’ and there is no more immediate or exhilarating way to signal that transformation than through the intentional curation of our style. We are dressing for the women we have become and the brilliance we are ready to project into the world.

For me, styling for the New Year brings in the optimism of a well-edited life. It’s selecting pieces that vibrate with confidence, comfort, and clarity. Whether you are stepping into a boardroom or nesting in your creative atelier, your wardrobe should be your most trusted ally—a seamless extension of your renewed mindset. Let’s move past the seasonal noise and focus on the exhilarating work of building a winter wardrobe that feels like a declaration of who you are: liberated, sophisticated, and entirely on your own terms.

As for what I am gravitating towards in this new season, I take into consideration multiple factors designed to allow me a simple and easy way to approach fashion during the winter months. I really try not to be too fussy, and I most definitely select clothes that allow for cool ventilation when needed because, at 55, I am VERY menopausal, and hot flashes are a frequent inconvenience. With that said, I really enjoy collecting and curating my “New Year” essentials that get me through not just this turning of the page, but the several weeks of deep winter ahead of us.

So today, I will divide this “What to Wear” segment into four categories: The Office, Winter Errands, Evening Socials, and New Year at Home. Keep in mind, the focus here is to curate those easy-to-reach items that make dressing during the winter season simple while embodying your style essence.

Part 1: “Office Wear”

Whether you are returning to a physical office or settling back into your home office after the break, these have been my go-to’s:

Sweaters: Yummy, oversized, or boxy-fit sweaters, either long-sleeved or short-sleeved, in merino wool or cashmere.
Jeans: Cropped flare or straight-legged options (no stretch, button-front preferred); wide, straight, baggy, or barrel-leg as full-length options. For work, no holes or distressing—stick to dark to medium blue washes, or add grey, black, and white.
Skirts: Midi-length, either straight, A-line, or pleated. Weather permitting, maxi lengths are great too.
Dress: Wrap, loose sheath, or A-line in knit, wool, denim, or corduroy.
Jacket + Blazer: I love a great jacket, whether oversized, slightly fitted, tailored, or relaxed. Wool blends are best in black, navy, and grey. For a winter pop, try a classic tartan or a deep burgundy.
Footwear: Leather ankle boots with a low heel (1″ – 2″); pointed toes are a favorite. Brogues, flats, and kitten heels also work beautifully.
Hosiery: Tights (sheer, opaque, or patterned) or ornate dress socks meant to be seen.
Accessories: Minimal jewelry, a structured handbag, and your signature winter scent.

Part 2: Winter Errands

As I transition my focus from the lecture hall to the atelier, my “errand” style has evolved into something more tactile and inspired. This is staying chic while checking off the to-do list in the cold.

Sweaters: Oversized or boxy-fit sweaters. As an alternative, try knit or cashmere hoodies and sweatshirts for a sporty-chic look.
Jeans: Same silhouettes as above, but here you can embrace holes or distressing. Grey and black denim feel particularly “January.”
Trousers: Cropped flare or full-length wide-leg in wool, velvet, or knit. Cashmere joggers are a luxury must-have here.
Skirts: Midi-length worn over a pair of cropped flare or straight-leg jeans… I love this look! Plus, it helps you stay extra warm in cold climates.
Jacket + Coat: Faux fur, vegan leather, or a high-quality puffer. Stick to wool blends for that polished “New Year, New Me” vibe.
Footwear: Trainers, chunky boots, or brogues for comfort while walking.
Hosiery: Warm socks (sheer, opaque, or patterned).

Part 3: Evening Socials

The parties don’t stop just because December is over. Whether it’s a “Cheers to the New Year” dinner or a winter gallery opening, here is how to shine.

Sweaters: I love a furry or fluffy sweater in merino or cashmere for texture.
Blouse: Satin, velvet, sheer, or a crisp, white tailored shirt.
Jeans: Dressy denim (no stretch) in dark washes. If the event is casual, distressed styles can work.
Trousers: Full-length wide-leg in wool, velvet, or heavy knit.
Skirts: Midi to floor-length options. Again, layering a midi over jeans is a sophisticated style play.
Dress: Structured knit, wool, or even duchess satin for a touch of winter elegance.
Jacket + Coat: A tuxedo jacket, sequins, or a well-tailored wool coat.
Footwear: High heels, slingbacks, or pointed-toe ankle boots.
Accessories: Statement jewelry and a sleek clutch.

Part 4: New Year at Home

January is the season of nesting. It is most definitely about being comfortable while staying stylish.

Sweaters: A comfortable sweatshirt in cotton or luxury cashmere wool.
Blouse: A relaxed, oversized white shirt for an effortless look.
Jeans: Wide-leg, baggy, or barrel-leg styles that don’t pinch.
Trousers: “Pajama” style wide-leg pants in velvet, knit, or satin.
Leggings: High-quality velvet or performance fabric.
Skirts & Dresses: Full-length denim or knit skirts and kaftan-style dresses for ultimate lounging.
Footwear: Leather or fur slippers, slides, or simple slingbacks for hosting friends.
Hosiery: Ornate or thick, cozy socks.

I hope this list offers some ideas to curate your wardrobe for the start of this year. Keep it fresh, versatile, and above all, comfortable.

For more advice on how to curate your winter closet, go to The Studio. Whether you need a deep-dive Closet Edit to declutter and reorganize or a 1:1 Styling Session to maximize the pieces you already own, I am here to help you start building a signature look that works for your life and your new narrative. Together, we will refine your collection to ensure every piece you own is a reflection of your brilliance and intentional style—transforming your wardrobe into a curated sanctuary of self-expression and ease.

Be inspired. Be empowered. Be fabulous!

Felicia

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Visual art based on original photograph, generated using Google Gemini AI.