If you’re drawing a blank at what to wear in 40-degree weather after months of spontaneous weather conditions, you’re certainly not alone.Styling winter outfits for work or play may sound daunting when you’re met with harsh conditions like snow, hail, and sleet, but if there’s one thing we know for sure about dressing for 40-degree weather (or anything below 60 for that matter) it’s that layers are key.
So, what should you have in your wardrobe to better prepare you for the brisk days ahead? Cardigans and coats, puffer vests, blanket scarves, beanies, gloves, and earmuffs come to mind. In terms of materials, you want a stock of warming fabrics like wool, leather, and suede, but pieces that are waterproof will also be crucial parts of your seasonal closet. Polyester and nylon are some examples to look out for when shopping for top layers.
Ahead, we rounded up a handful of 40-degree weather outfit ideas that strike the perfect balance between fashion and functionality.
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Monochromatic, But Make It Winter
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We love the attention to detail in this all-red, winter-appropriate ensemble. It’s colorful and fashion-forward, yet practical and weather-conscious. Note the layering of the hooded, hip-length puffer vest over a long-sleeve turtleneck dress and slouchy boots with a rubber sole. It’s giving warmth—and is (mostly) waterproof.
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Mix and Match Cozy Fabrics
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In case it wasn’t clear when dressing for 40-degree weather, warmth is the word and that means we reach for materials that are intended to protect us from the cold. Case in point: This street-style look includes leather components (blouse and gloves) and a long, wool coat
17 Types of Coats to Consider for Your Winter Wardrobe
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Elevate Your Sweats
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While a sweat set is appropriate for 40-degree weather forecasts if you’re heading out of the house and want to look a bit more put-together, grab the sweatshirt and leave the sweatpants. A baggy pair of jeans will give your top some edge, and the pair will be roomy enough to add a base layer, like tights, fleece-lined leggings, or long underwear, underneath.
Make sure you’re cozy sweatshirt is lying on top of a T-shirt or tank for extra coverage and accessorize with a long overcoat and scarf before heading out the door. Skip sneakers and opt for chunky work boots, instead.
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Invest In Knits (Even Trousers)
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When you think of the word “knits,” we’re willing to bet items like Rory Gilmore’s infamous fisherman sweater comes to mind, but tops aren’t the only clothing item that’s made from inter-looping yarn. There are plenty of knit pants on the market, too, and we love the ultra-cozy bottom look for winter.
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Lean Into the Faux Fur Look
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Faux fur is the ultimate win in the warm fabric category. It’s cruelty-free but eerily similar to the real thing, so you feel cozy and keep incredibly warm, without harming any animals in the process. In that case, why wouldn’t you wear the mimicking material from head to toe? We love a fuzzy coat moment but are also in favor of faux fur-lined boots, leggings, and tops.
The 14 Best Faux Fur Coats and Jackets
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The Puffier the Better
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One major faux pas you want to avoid in the winter months is buying a coat or jacket that isn’t roomy enough for all the bulky layers you’ll be rocking from November through March. Take a page from fashion model, Halima Aden’s book and treat yourself to midi-length outerwear that’s extremely puffy. Trust us, the marshmallow look is all the rage.
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The Same Goes for Length
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The longer your coat, the more protected you’ll be from the chill and whipping winds. Plus, coat outfits are becoming more and more popular, for while you keep your foundation layers basic and, frankly, uninteresting, so your coat can shine. A saving grace for days when you have to run errands, but don’t feel like putting in the effort to make a comfy outfit cute.
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Modest Dressing Can Be Cute
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Covering up can look chic and if you need proof, look no further than Julia Fox’s outfit for her Drew Barrymore debut. The actress and model opted for an ensemble that was all-business, but still stylish: An oversized, matching pantsuit with a white button-down underneath, and boots that snaked up her legs. The less skin exposed to harsh weather conditions, the better.
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Keep Your Head High and Your Necklines Higher
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If warmth is the goal, coverage is the key to achieving it. Long sleeves and pants are obvious, but you also want to think about your exposed neck when heading out into 40-degree weather. Scarves are a great line of defense, but mocknecks and turtlenecks should also be in your rotation.
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Teddy Coats Are Still Cool
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Cuddle up underneath a teddy coat and we guarantee you’ll be nice and toasty on your commute to wherever. This is the perfect outerwear option for 40-degree weather because they’re plush and fuzzy and give off heat like a radiator. They’re so warm that, on some days, you might not need a third layer between your top and coat.
