Winterize with Style

If you're like me, you hate looking like a walking marshmallow.  So unfortunately, I spend a good chunk of my time here in Wisconsin freezing my [bleep] off.  I have "puffy" coats, and I do wear them...to the grocers, to run errands, to stand at the bus stop.  However, I really don't want to wear this unflattering outerwear when I am all dressed up and about to head into the night for an evening of cocktails...ya feel me??  Nothing looks more "high school" than seeing a woman in stockings, heels, and a hint of a dress peaking out from under a waist-length ski coat with the ski lift tag still attached...ugh.  But I digress. 


This isn't about me, it's about finding a way to stay warm while still retaining a sense of style.  One thing is key:  a woman needs a mid-thigh or knee-length coat for a dressy occasion.  Here in Madison, it's currently 14 degrees, so it may be hard to avoid a little "puffiness", but the length will minimize the "snowball effect".  Here are some ideas:

The North Face "Caroline Coat"  (I really like the cinched waist)

The North Face "Triple C Down"

http://www.thenorthface.com/    (Or visit The North Face store at Hilldale Mall, Madison WI, off of University Avenue)

Patagonia "Downtown Loft Parka"

http://www.patagonia.com/us/shop/womens?k=1E