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Dressing for the winter has never been my forté mostly because I’ve never reallyyyy had to do it. Yes, I know we New York City transplants are insufferable in many ways, but have you ever considered the fact that we’re just fucking cold?? As someone who only wants to leave my house if I’m in a capital L Look, it’s a lot easier to operate from April – October (or in my home state of Louisiana, but they have a whole other host of issues). This year, however, I will not be succumbing to the jeans/sweater/black puffer jacket formula, and instead swapping it for a stylish, cozy winter outfit largely thanks to the Instagram of one of NYC’s elite and most iconic it girls, Lily Van Der Woodsen Kelly Rutherford.
After studying Kelly Rutherford’s style on Instagram where she blesses us with frequent elevator selfies, I’ve identified the key pieces in achieving her chic balance of femininity, utility, and classic rich mom style. The best part is, it’s all comfy as hell, which, if we’re being honest, is the only way my seasonal depression is letting me get dressed anyway.
Elevated Sweats
The best thing about Kelly’s style is that it takes the soft and cozy things you actually want to wear in the winter and makes them look like a legit outfit. Luckily this includes sweatpants – just go for an elevated set like these pants and hoodie from Gap that bring a little bit of texture to your look (and hides crumbs better than the classic cotton variety).
Cozy Skirts
You know what’s always more comfortable than wearing pants? Not wearing pants. If you think that’s just not practical when temperatures drop, try pairing a cozy knit midi skirt (like this one from Everlane or this one from COS) with tights and boots or sneakers and your favorite sweater.
Not Your Basic Black Puffer
As annoying as it is, sometimes a practical puffer is your best option for braving the cold, but Kelly always goes for options with interesting proportions like this chic quilted jacket or duvet wrap vest to keep it out of “are you from New York even?” territory.
Winter White
Part of what keeps Kelly’s style from getting too stuffy is that she breaks a lot of traditional style rules like “don’t mix navy and black” or “no white pants after Labor Day.” (Both complete BS, for the record.) Don’t be afraid to bring your white jeans back out and pair them with a cozy knit and boots for the winter.
Old Money Outerwear
Trust me, I’m as tired of the old money, quiet luxury conversation as everyone else, but there’s really no other way to succinctly describe the coats in Kelly’s rotation. Vintage looking (faux) furs and cape coats that feel like estate sale scores are what make the rest of her chill essentials feel like a fashion statement.
Practical Footwear
A dainty little heel or a super classic riding boot would just not have the same cool effect with Kelly’s aforementioned rich lady staples, and TFG because trying to trek around the city in them sounds like my worst nightmare. Bring your winter outfits back down to reality with a pair of sturdy hiking-inspired boots like these by Vince Camuto, this pair available on Amazon, or this black pair from Schutz that will go with literally everything.
Elegant Accessories
To top it all off, Kelly keeps it clean and chic with elegant (but not boring) accessories. When all else fails, remind everyone that you still have style with a pair of ‘70s style sunnies, a bold cat eye, or a staple black bag with modern mixed metals.
