As the temperatures plummet  heading into winter, the number of outfit options begins to soar.  Colder temperatures call for a flurry of sweaters, parkas, and scarves. With so many choices, how do you go from simply ‘ready for winter’ to completely ‘wintachic?’ Never fear, the Tribune is here to help.

The chunky knit scarf:

Whether it’s a plain wrap-around or an infinity, a scarf is not only a chic accessory, but a necessity. Choose a chunky knit scarf to lend structure to your getup, or add texture to your parka. Use neutral colours to complement, and brighter colours for a pop. If you want optimum warmth, go for a blend that’s over 40 per cent wool.

Keep those ears warm:

Protect your ears from the harsh Montreal cold with a stylish winter headband or a pair of earmuffs. You can find a wide array of choices throughout the city, in stores like Little Burgundy, H&M, and Zara. We love a headband adorned with a bow to the side, or faux fur earmuffs that make a statement. Très belle!

The oversized coat:

For coats, big is beautiful this season. Own the streets with an androgynous, double breasted coat, or go feminine with a flowy, gown-esque choice. Topshop is a great haven for oversized coats, so head over to the Bay on Ste. Catherine’s to have a look at their selection. With chunky knit tights and black boots underneath, even visiting Parisians will envy your style.

A velvet love affair:

Velvet was a huge hit on the runways this season. Start your velvet experience off right with a simple pair of black or burgundy skinny pants and you’ll set your tights apart from the typical plain legging. Match with a polished top, and you’re ready for class—both kinds.

Perfect plaids:

Winter is never complete without a healthy dose of plaid. Take your red, black, and white plaid out of the log cabin and onto the street for a festive feel.  Dress it down with a boyfriend-fit button up shirt over a white tank and leggings for a comfy-chic way to relax on a lazy Sunday!

The sneaker wedge:

Athletic meets fashionable in this latest fashion innovation. The sneaker wedge offers the versatility of a sneaker with the stylish flair of a wedge. This glammed-up version looks fabulous with navy skinny-jeans and a warm biker jacket. Our favourite? Jeffrey Campbell’s black sneaker wedge—the patent accents are to die for.

Haute in houndstooth:

Always classy, houndstooth is inarguably one of the most fashion-forward patterns this winter. Channel your inner Coco Chanel or Alexander McQueen with a sweater, scarf, or purse, and incorporate a touch of houndstooth into your outfit for an extra dash of drama.

Fair Isle sweaters:

Despite perks like fresh snow, Starbucks specialty drinks, and vacation time, what we love most about the holiday season are definitely Fair Isle sweaters. The knits, the patterns, the textures… what’s not to adore? A baggy sweater ensemble with tight leggings is a sure-fire way to cozy up to winter and show off your holiday spirit.

The faux fur vest:

Take a bold risk and invest in a faux fur vest for your winter wardrobe. They look great with any dark, solid-colour top and a pair of jeans for bottoms. Accessorize with a long-chained silver necklace as a finishing touch. Club Monaco’s fur vest this season is catching our eye, as well as ones from Urban Outfitters and H&M, so head down to the shopping district if you want to investigate this trend.

Thigh high socks:

Shy away from the typical leggings-jeggings-jeans getup this season and try something a little different. Black tights with thigh high socks are a very fashion-forward spinoff to the typical bottom. Go subtle with muted shades, or go bold with louder colours to add some flavour to your outfit. Wear them underneath a dark skater dress, and you’ll be sure to turn heads!