Every season needs a solid wardrobe foundation. Fashion girls around the world are gearing up for a stylish winter full of glam, comfort and ease. Because in the winter time, that's what's most important.
One of our absolute faves, Ashley Weddington, a New York-based influencer, is a lover of all things style. She lives to inspire by showcasing different ways to put ensembles together while staying on trend all year round. She told us why she loves winter, from delicious hot beverages, holidays, layers, to all around cozy vibes. "I choose my staple pieces based on their versatility, as well as statement-making ability. Living in NYC, staying warm and being stylish can sometimes be tricky, which is why I put a lot of effort into choosing outerwear, boots, and accessories that really pop!"
We have found 10 of Ashley's winter wardrobe staples that are the beginning of a fabulous closet. Check 'em out below:
1.Faux Fur Coat.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
This is a must-have item if you want to brave the cold. Not only is it stylish but it is incredibly warm. A real fur coat may not be in the budget so be sure to cop a faux fur number to give the same "Joanne the Scammer"/rich Caucasian woman vibes this winter season. For more coat style inspiration, you can check out our article "11 Statement-Making Coats That Radiate Boss Energy". Talk about cold.
2.Black Pants.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Ashley is a risk-taker, so she opted for leather pants, but you can find black pants in various styles, textures, and lengths. Why black pants? Because they are slimming and create a classic silhouette. Above all, black pants are fitting for almost any space.
3.Over The Knee Boots.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Over-the-knee boots have become a mainstay in the cycle of fashion trends. You can easily style the shoe to your liking, whether you are rocking an oversized sweatshirt like Ariana Grande or a minidress like Ashley. That's the added pleasure of this staple: their versatility.
Low:ASOS DESIGN Kendra Stiletto Thigh High Boots, $80
High:Saks Fifth Avenue Karter Microsuede Knee-High Boots, $180
4.Turtleneck.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
I am a huge advocate for turtlenecks. They are reminiscent of the most fashionable eras like the 70s and 90s. Not to mention, you'll feel like you're still snuggled under your favorite blanket once you've left your couch. Take a note from Ashley and layer the staple with a silk tank and a striped blazer. You can use a turtleneck to continue to wear some of your other wardrobe faves even after their season has passed.
5.Little Black Dress.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
When in doubt, throw on a little black dress. It's the answer to all of your problems; from your office to date night. You can also style an LBD in limitless ways. During these colder days, try finding little black dresses that are knitted or have a thicker texture.
6.Overalls.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Overalls are a legit way to switch up your style game. This style is not just a flashback; it's a great way to step outside of your normal routine. And if you're caught up on the name, just call it a jumpsuit. Ha!
7.Scarf.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Scarves are quintessential for winter. When have you ever NOT loved a good scarf!
8.Printed Suit.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Printed suits have to be one of the best things invented. When I see women wearing killer suits, I think, Oh, she's not in her bag, she is the bag! The power in the power suit is all in how you rock it and confidence should be your favorite accessory. This season, I challenge you to find a bold color or printed suit. P.S. you can also double coordinate sets as suits!
Low:MANGO Printed Blazer, $70 & MANGO Printed Trousers, $50
High:Tommy Hilfiger Zendaya Monogram Print Blazer, $250 & Tommy Hilfiger Zendaya Monogram Print Trousers, $130
9.Crossbody Bag.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Crossbody bags are superb for the days on the go. You can quickly throw them on and keep it moving. While Ashley opted for a small bag, you can definitely go bigger.
10. Glamorous Skirt.
Courtesy of Ashley Weddington/astyledmind.com
Don't you just love this skirt? It's fun and full of glamour. Wanna know a secret? It's actually a dress. Ashley paired it with a chunky sweater to give the illusion of a skirt. Either way, this look kills!
Featured image courtesy of Ashley Weddington/A Styled Mind.
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Originally published on January 3, 2019
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To help you better understand why this was such a mental awakening for me, I first need to give a bit of my backstory. I’m in my late thirties. I’m an attorneyand a journalist. I own a home and have traveled the world extensively. Essentially, I’ve done everything in life I set out to do. However, when it comes to dating, I struggle. Not because there is anything wrong with me per se, but because my career and “lifestyle” often create problems in my romantic relationships.
View from my hotel room
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I’ve been told everything from, ‘I can’t continue to date you because you seem to choose your career over wanting to settle down and have kids’ by a man after only the second date to ‘Maybe if you just sat down somewhere for a while, I’d actually wife you’ by someone who has honestly never proven themselves to be the settle down type. And these are only a handful of the things I’ve been told over the years.
It’s been frustrating, to say the least, and there have even been seasons where I purposely dimmed my light in hopes that my career wouldn’t push away potential suitors. I know what you’re thinking, “Girl, why would you even consider that? If they’re for you, it won’t matter what you do.” Hey, don’t judge me, but also, I one hundred percent agree.
My hotel bathroom
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That’s why this recent moment in Switzerland was right on time. When I first walked into the hotel to check in, I was blown away by the surrounding beauty. It was a five-star property with one of the world’s most famous thermal bathhouses. Yet, it was something about seeing that 90% of the hotel’s guests were couples, that forced me to sit back for a bit of introspection—while soaking in the thermal spa, of course.
As I went through the mental conversation, there was a battle of sorts. On one hand, I knew that being able to partake in experiences like the one I was having at that moment was important to me. I knew that, at times I actually love being able to dabble in the finer things—after all, I’ve worked hard to be able to afford them. On the other hand, and sadly, I knew that sometimes being a single Black woman that publicly showcases her “luxurious” habits can intimidate men and even scare them off from pursuing you under the guise of them feeling like they “can’t do anything for you, because you have everything.”
My hotel room
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So, what is a girl to do?
Do I minimize/hide the life and experiences that I have? Do I play down the hard work I’ve put in to get where I am professionally? Or, do I risk being single in exchange for being able to have said life, without backlash?
Luckily, the joy that I felt while being at this property won. There was something about taking a full day to simply pamper myself at the bathhouse and in my in-room steam shower and soaker tub, indulging in cuisine from a 2-star Michelin restaurant and doing all of this while surrounded by an amazing group of Black women that reminded me—this is certainly the life I was meant to live and that I deserve. Even if it means that right now, I’ll just have to provide it for myself until the right partner comes along. And honestly, I’m okay with that.
Restaurant at 7132 hotel
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