As we look back on the past 11 months, we ask ourselves "how much progress have I made since January 1?" Then we laugh, because the answer is likely "I feel so attacked right now." (Unless you have done something, in which case, nice.) But it's not too late to make up for lost time as the sand starts trickling down the hourglass two grains at a time—at least not in the style department. Here, five small ways to dress better in 2018, because you can still look good when everything feels bad.
Like Green Tea or Drinking More Water, a Good Coat Will Solve All Your Problems
Quick, before the doctors who don't want you to know get me: A well-made, well-fitting coat will make 80 percent of your fashion problems disappear, mostly because it's like a tarp you can keep on even indoors, rendering invisible most missteps in fit or taste. Exploded soy sauce all over your cream angora sweater (it was a tribute to Nicholas Hoult in A Single Man)? Put a coat on it. Said f*ck it and had a calzone for lunch, and now your pants need to be unbuttoned? Who cares—that's a Céline shearling hiding my bloat, pal.
19 Warm Winter Coats to Help You Stand Out in a Crowd of Black Puffers
Luxurious, classic, and a steal. What else could you ask for in this printed Zara number?
Your friend will spot you a block away while you're wearing this water-resistant goose-down puffer jacket, which isn't the worst case scenario when you're trudging through the snow that's starting to block your vision. Too soon?
Flannel lovers, unite! This Sandro jacket can go from city living to cozy cabin. The added fringe details gives it a little extra flare.
The Arrivals' suede Moto Jacket is going to make you wish it'll never be summer again.
No white after Labor Day? Think again with this gorgeous wool blend coat.
The leopard midi skirt's older sister has returned from her six-month sabbatical. For an eco-friendly option, choose Michael Kors' oversized faux-fur style.
J.Crew's Naples Yellow Wool Coat will bring out the sun, no matter what Mother Nature has in store. This coat is made a Italian wool and is that perfect pop of color we all need.
Got a case of the Mondays? Throw on this blanket coat and it'll feel like you never left your bed.
When a winter day feels more like a fall day (thanks, global warming), Anthro's plaid wool coat—equipped with a hood!—will look perfect over a light turtleneck and jeans.
Suddenly it's possible to be warm and look professional in IRO's mid-length checkered coat that will be mistaken for vintage more often than not.
Put on this gorgeous faux shearling coat, and you'll feel like you never left your bed in the morning.
It may be shapeless but it's also reversible (!), which means your co-workers will never be able to tell you've been wearing the same coat everyday for the past three months. Plus, look at that neck coverage.
That once-in-a-lifetime Prada houndstooth coat you know you'll keep forever? Yeah, this is it.
Walking rug or teddy coat? It won't even matter once January hits. Throw on this coat for a quick errand run or over a leather jacket thanks to its maximum layering capabilities.
At a reasonable price point, Everlane's cocoon coat is equally stylish as it is functional, making it the obvious choice to wear to dinner and drinks straight from the office.
It's my birthday and I can wear a cropped puffer jacket if I want to...even if it's 20 degrees outside.
Excuse me while I gently rub this soft brown coat forever. For less than $150, you can't go wrong with this pick. ••• For more celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter. SUBSCRIBE HERE
No More Cross-Body Bags with the Super Long Straps Except in Situations Where You Need Both Hands, Such as Travel or Moshing
I am still seeing this, which is fine. But it'd be a lot cooler if we didn't and got bags that are top-handle and/or didn't slap the lower hip.
In Fact, I Am Going to Go as Far as Saying That Simply Switching to a Top-Handle Bag Would Do Wonders for Your Chicness Levels
Because you get that retro sensibility and strength of shape you see very much in these newfangled squishy buckets. A sparkly drawstring pouch is fun for evening, but for real life, when the clothes themselves are slouchier, some structure elsewhere is nice.
1. Vanina, $620 BUY IT
2. Sun Jellies, $18 BUY IT
3. Elizabeth James, $345 BUY IT
4. J.Crew, $138 BUY IT
5. Mango, $60 BUY IT
Don't Be Afraid to Wear as Many Accessories as Possible at Once, Like You're Iris Apfel or Something
Once upon a time, I didn't even like wearing big earrings with sunglasses, because, with my commuting headphones on, too much visual interest was concentrated around my head. (I know.) I, and fashion, have gotten over that, so if you too have had a similar aversion, feel free to crowd a lot of sparkly things near your face. Then add oversize aviator glasses and blue eyeshadow.
Do More/the Most
In the recent past, a lot of us were locked in a stupid battle with one another to see who could wash their hair the least and wear the plainest, most boring clothes with only the width of our sleeve rolls for distinction. Now, trying is in again, or rather, not being afraid to look as if you've thought about your outfit. Match stuff. Really consider your accessories (a good zone-out activity). Lay outfits out on your bed, even if you've done that the whole time (in secret) with solid sweaters and selvedge jeans. Caring is cool.