winter style NYC: statement coats

{plaid coat} MSGM {floral dress} Zara {handbag} PS1 mini, Proenza Schouler {sunnies} Karen Walker Number One in Crazy Tortoise {black jeans} Reformation {black booties} Schutz  {photographed by} Jovana Obradovic {NYC lower east side}

Winter, especially in New York City, can get gray and drab rather quickly.  Pretty soon you've fallen victim to purely utilitarian dressing (which sometimes is a necessity)  The black on black on black- wool, down, thermals routine, gets boring quite fast.  My favorite solution is a statement coat that is both functional and cozy.  Offering a pop of pattern and color with an out-of-the-ordinary ruffle.  Having fun with outerwear is a sure fire way to spruce up your winter wardrobe.  Granted I've layered some thermals and a thin down jacket from Uniqlo underneath (tricks of the trade).  Adding a bold contrasting blouse or dress underneath will keep the "daydreaming of spring vibe".  I love a dress over trousers in the cold winter months.  It's a fun bit of layering, and your legs will thank you when the wind chill sets in.  Ps. How cute is itty bitty baby Proenza?

the TREND: Statement Jackets

{fig. 1} Nathan Jenden runway {fig. 2} street style SUNO jacket via ASOS Blog

I love jackets with a passion. Maybe it's because I grew up in Seattle where a jacket was a perennial necessity. Therefore it made more sense to splurge on outer layers than inner layers since the weather always dictated keeping that jacket on. Nowadays I live in Los Angeles where jackets are accessories instead of being necessaries. All the more reason to make it a statement! I love the print on the yellow geometric and floral SUNO jacket. It's loud in all the right ways. Plus, there's no easier way to spice up your favorite basics. Just throw on a jacket that shouts instead of whispers.