Wunderbloc New York

When wintertime and holidays roll around, I eat with reckless abandon.  Hearty stews, meat, potatoes, hot chocolate, pasta--anything to give me that faux feeling of warmth.  On a recent trip to Amsterdam, I didn't anticipate the severe level of eating that would ensue.  Some bizarre force overcame me--and I wound up consuming every morsel of food that hit my plate.  I mean, it wasn't like I was in the cuisine-mecca of the world.  I just had to be the cold weather and all of the biking in the "ijs," slush, and snow.  Thank God I don't live in Antarctica.  I'd be the Goodyear blimp by now.  

So how does one fashionably mask the winter bloat/hibernation layer?  That's what oversized sweaters are for, my Wunderfriends.  Pair a forgiving sweater with some leggings (or stretchy denim if you feel daring and if your stomach allows) and some riding boots--and no one (not even you) will notice that spare tire around your waist.  The function is two-fold, providing insulation to your newly-insulated body!  Just don't go too crazy with these sweaters.  Be mindful of sizing (translation: buy your normal size)--otherwise you'll end up looking even bigger due to a bunch of extra material.  Just enough where it doesn't cling to your body...  Also, be mindful of balance by not wearing something baggy on the lower-half as well.  

Yeah, I'll see you at the gym.  I'll be the one wearing leggings and an oversized sweatshirt for the next few weeks.  But the tasty food was worth every pound!!!

1. Free People Voluminous Fair Isle Sweater ($50)
2. Silence & Noise Polka Dot Intarsia Sweater ($58)
3. Horace Black/Grey Stripe Long-sleeve Knit Top ($91)
4. Rebecca Taylor Mushroom Open Knit Crewneck ($225)
5. Autumn Cashmere Hand Knit Popcorn Cable Sweater ($407)
6. 3.1 Philip Lim Double Breasted Knit Shawl Coat ($795).

Well, there's no sense in fighting the inevitable any longer.  Old Man Winter has finally reared his ugly head.  

This type of weather seriously makes me want to go into full-fledged "nester" mode.  I'm talking hot cocoa, ginormous chunky knit sweaters, amazingly snazzy thigh high boots, and fluffy scarves.  (The only thing missing from my repertoire is a working fireplace.  Okay, fine.  I'll take any type of fireplace since I don't even have a decorative one.  Although there are "faux" fireplaces that are sold on QVC.  But don't tell anyone I know about the fake ones--nor that I know about QVC...  Please.)

So back to scarves.  There is something very luxurious about swathing oneself in the warmth of a soft, oversized, knit scarf.  The look and feel exudes confidence, style, and comfort.  The sheer thought of wearing one--as it wraps around my neck and blankets my cheeks--makes me, dare I say, somewhat excited about the season.  

Try one of these magnificent creations to cozy up your day.  

1. TopShop Cable Slubby Scarf ($32)
2. Urban Outfitters Oversized Cozy Scarf ($48)
3. ASOS Premium Knitted Alpaca Mix Cable ($85)
4. Oak Black Oversized Tube Scarf ($148) pictured
5. Iwona Ludyga Olsen Collar ($190)
6. Wommelsdorf Round Edge Scarf ($335).

A few years ago, I was aimlessly shopping at Uniqlo and came across a navy stripe buttondown.  It particularly caught my eye because of a few unique details--a banded collar, green contrast buttonhole threading, 3/4 length sleeves, and a shrunken fit.  And I'll proudly admit that I probably wear it 2-3 times per month.

Now, I'll be the first to declare that buttondowns aren't for everyone.  (Meaning they don't look right on just anyone.)  But there's something about the menswear blue stripe pattern that is universally flattering.  The pattern and color combo provide a crisp, clean look on a variety of skin tones and hair colors.  And makers are doing everything they can to add new twists to the traditional cut.  Ruffle fronts, shirt dresses, tuxedo style, ornate collars, to name a few.  

While effortlessly serving as a reliable prepster look, you can make this an extremely versatile closet staple.  Add a bit of contrast by wearing leggings and over-the-knee boots.  Or pair the shirt with a high-waisted knit skirt and ankle boots?  Or maybe some boyfriend jeans and flats?  The options are endless... 

Don't worry, no one will notice that you've worn it every week.  

1. Forever 21 Crinkled Striped Shirt ($20)
2. JCrew Stripe Cotton Popover ($60)
3. Blue Bird Shirting Lean Lines Tunic ($88)
4. Free People Menswear Stripe Top ($98)
5. Sibel Saral Striped Ruffle Shirt ($172)
6. Elizabeth and James Brigitte Silk Shirt ($295) pictured.