Walking in style with my furry fashionista!

This autumn, I discovered an undeniable love for a particular item: the trench coat. This iconic piece, donned by celebrities ranging from Elle Fanning to Amal Clooney, possesses the transformative power to instantly elevate any outfit. It effortlessly adds a coveted touch of French-girl style to casual jeans while complementing the sophistication of a favorite date-night dress. To me, it was the hottest jacket for both spring and fall, and seeing Camila Mendes recently reminded me of its relevance even in winter.

During her outing in New York, Mendes effortlessly blended winter’s comfort-first approach with chic elements, creating a look that begged to be recreated (I’m convinced my closet is calling for each piece). She wore the popular Levi’s Baggy Dad Jeans in faded black, a cozy tan turtleneck sweater, and simple white sneakers. This ensemble was elevated with a trench coat, classic oval sunglasses, and a striking striped blanket scarf from Urban Outfitters—a winter essential endorsed by the likes of Mary-Kate Olsen and our fashion editor.

Mendes’ outfit offers several reasons to admire, notably showcasing how to layer gracefully in freezing temperatures. I’ve often found myself reaching for the bulkiest, puffiest jacket in my wardrobe, tossing it over an already oversized sweater, resulting in an ensemble reminiscent of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man costume. Yet, Mendes demonstrated that a sleek, more streamlined coat can still be winter-appropriate when paired with the right pieces, such as a substantial sweater to compensate for the lighter outerwear and a thick, lengthy scarf that doubles as a cozy blanket. Unless the windchill hits the negatives, there’s no need for every garment to be knitted, padded, or filled with down.