Oh the weather outside is frightful...

The sun is shining today but it is still very cold, hovering just above freezing. If I am properly dressed, though, I don't mind the lower temps. 

Here's how I layer for winter:

First, a cozy sweater: I like this wool-cashmere one. The dark ivory reminds me of snowfall. 

I would tie this scarf around my neck. In winter, warm things become bling out of necessity. Both the scarf and sweater are from the amazing gift guide that J. Crew has put together. Santa, I'll take one of each!

Everyone has their opinion about leggings, but they are my favorite thing in the world to wear and since it is nearly the holidays, I would choose these velvet leggings. If you are part of the camp that believes leggings are not pants, then wear jeans. Either way, read on...

I don't know if the Valentina boot from Sole Society would be warm, but it is certainly pretty. For warmth, I might have to go with the Joan of Arctic's by Sorel. Not only would they keep my tootsies warm, but that is a ridiculously cute name.

We wear winter coats here in Michigan for at least four months--and since daylight savings time ended, it has been incredibly dark very early in the evening. Thus, I would choose this super fun jacket. Neon makes it bright enough to be seen no matter how dark or blizzardy the conditions. Patagonia's ikat purple would also be a fun color and perhaps easier on the eyes.

Finally, a hat and gloves. This Fairisle set from Boden is classic and fun. There is a teensy bit of neon on these so yes, I would wear them with the jacket above. Heck, I might even wear them with the ikat purple Patagonia. Color is fun!

Now for the affiliate links! 

If you join Sole Society and make a purchase, I will get $25 (woohoo! if four of you do it, then it's like Christmas came early and I get my boots free!). You will also get 20% off your first order when you sign up for emails -- AND if you use Ebates, you will also get another 5% back!

You can also get up to 6% back at Lands End, 3% back at J. Crew, and 2.5% back at Boden by using Ebates, whose slogan is "where you get paid to shop"!

Staying warm is going to be important because we have these two super fun events to attend in the next few weeks. 

Silver Bells in the City on November 22nd includes a parade, lighting of the state Christmas tree, and fireworks.

The Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Olde Christmas Weekend, featured in this month's issue of Midwest Living, is in its 25th year in my hometown. Of all the activities packed into the first weekend of December, I am most looking forward to buying as much chocolate candy as possible at the sale to benefit abused children and watching a live performance of It's A Wonderful Life at the historic Ramsdell Theatre.