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I may be a Florida girl now, but that does not mean that I don't love a beautiful wool coat, especially when paired with a dress, tights and boots. I would trade in the mild weather year-round just to have use for the other half of my wardrobe that isn't shorts and tank tops. Perpetual summer is not all it is cracked up to be. I even told myself that once the high is 50, I'm breaking out the boots and the coats and scarves no matter what strange looks I get from others on the street. The first cold snap of the season is on its way this weekend and I am like a kid counting down until Christmas.

For those of you who don't live in the land of endless sunshine, would you trade your polar vortexes? And if so, perhaps you would be interested in a house swap for a few months?

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Looking to diversify your winter wardrobe? Tired of wearing long sleeved function T-shirts and jeans every day? Investing in a few key items will carry your wardrobe through the first thaw. The overarching trend for both him and her is layers, layers, layers.

For her, think ankle boots, structured coats, stripes, utility jackets and leather skinny pants.

Riding boots may not put anyone on the worst-dressed list, but 2014 will be year of the ankle boot. Worn with a dress and tights or skinny jeans and an oversized sweater, ankle boots can be dressed up or dressed down and transition seamlessly from day to night. Do heels intimidate you? Don’t worry, this trend also comes in flat and wedge options. 

The one item that should be in every closet is a structured wool coat. First impressions are important, and in the winter, your coat is the first thing everyone sees. If your style is classic and timeless, look for a traditional pea coat in navy or charcoal. However, if you want to make a statement, go for winter white, powder blue or orange with faux fur trim. Mid-length coats pair perfectly with both pants and dresses and are the most versatile. 

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The striped sweaters and long-sleeved T-shirts can be spared the trip to Goodwill another season. Pair them with an olive green utility jacket and dark skinny jeans or dress them up with a tulle ballerina-style skirt for a night out.

Don’t be afraid of monochromatic black ensembles. They are no longer reserved for angsty teenagers looking to rebel against their parents. Make sure to vary the textures; dress up black leather leggings with a silk black top and fitted black blazer. 

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When in doubt, layer up. Sweaters look great over plaid button downs paired with this summer’s maxi skirt. And for those unseasonably warm days, opt for a quilted puffy vest over a thermal shirt.

The only must-follow rule is to purge all of the chevron print from your closet. That ship has sailed and won’t make an appearance until the next fashion cycle in 15-20 years.

Some of the same winter trends also apply to men’s fashion. Structured pea coats and crew neck sweaters worn over button downs are classic and a step up from jeans and T-shirts. Also, do not be afraid to embrace scarves on the coldest days and invest in quality socks. Whatever you do, do not wear socks with Chacos.