The key to dressing like you live in L.A. while actually living in the mountains in the dead of winter is this– jump into your car to go snap a photo, jump out of your car and snap the photo, jump back into your car.

There. Now you know my dirty little secret. The reality is that every outfit can be made climate appropriate. If I were really going to wear this in my day-to-day I’d add a black fur snood, some low black ankle booties, or ever some sleek leather driving gloves. Wha-la! Cold weather approved!

Black and white are coming back strong for Resort 2016 (as if they every left a carefully curated wardrobe, ha!), so get ready to pull out your monochromatic separates and make them into fantastic blanc on black outfit options!

XX, Megan

Jacket: Zara (old, similar, save, splurge, fun), Shirt: J.Crew, Pants: J.Crew, Shoes: J.Crew (similar, similar, save, splurge), Sunglasses: Ray-ban, Bag: Old Navy, Necklace: Aldo, Earrings: Aldo, Watch: Belle & Ross, Lips: Nars Lip Gloss Orgasm

This coat makes me smile! Yes, indeed. That’s a good thing as there is nothing better than standing in browning snow get the perfect snap of this wonderful topper.

What are some of your favorite pieces this winter? Have you found any key outwear that has made life that much better in the elements? Maybe you live in the San Francisco Bay area and you’ve snagged the perfect trench.

Maybe you live in Saskatchewan and you’ve invested in J.Crew’s quintessential Chateau Parka. Maybe you live in Kentucky or Texas and you are loving a classic pea coat.

Winter outerwear is a serious subject where we live. Especially this past week as the temperature dipped into the negatives. There are two key elements to staying warm and staying stylish during the winter months. The first is– LOVE your pick. Whatever piece of outwear you choose. Don’t put it in the bag unless you LOVE it!

The second commandment of winter dressing is– LAYER. Layer, layer, and layer some more. I don’t think I was wearing my long thermal leggings for this shoot, but I’m not above throwing on some thermals to avoid being uncomfortable erranding all day.

I really would love to know what piece you find indispensable during the winter months. Love and layers, friends. TGIT, my lovelies!!!

XX, Megan

Coat: Aritzia (this color sold out similar, similar, save, splurge), Sweater: J.Crew on sale!, Pants: Madewell, Bag: Madewell (sold out, but an assortment of similar options here, and here, favorite, save, save, splurge), Boots: Danner, Sunglasses: Ray-ban, Belt: Target, Earrings: Tiffany, Lips: MAC Lady Danger

Yes, this year is already sweater. I can’t help myself. Comfy, cozy, cuddly, warm, fuzzy, wooly. I want them all!!!!!!

I featured this sweater in a more festive outfit earlier in December. It is warm staples like these that will carry those of us in mountain climes through the winter.

However, if your climate is more temperate– maybe even ranging into balmy– remember that there is a witching hour each morning and evening where an extra layer is a MUST. This sweater is the perfect throw on after dinner for a walk in the city, or cozy up on the couch with the windows open in the evening.

Or if, like me, you are experiencing drops into the teens, tens, and negatives, this you’ll probably be wearing this sweater layered with something even more warm and puffy!

Here’s to clothing as temperature control, and wearing your favorite pieces in every climate! Happy Tuesday, gang!

XX, Megan

Sweater: Joie (here, similar, save, splurge), Bodysuit: American Apparel, Pants: Lucky, Belt: Target, Boots: Joan of Arctic, Socks: J.Crew, Necklace: Vintage, Earrings: Vintage, Cuffs: Vintage and Banana Republic, Ring: Target

Things have gotten pretty sparkly over here on Refined + Rugged these past few posts. I simply can’t quell my penchant for sequins for dress-ups and parties.

That said, maybe you’re staying in for the New Year. Maybe you’re having friends over– not for a full blown house party– but for soup (like the one I posted yesterday), and warm drinks while the kids play board games and wait for the Ball Drop.

This casual denim and stripe combo is perfect for a low-key night-in. I’m still jonsing on these overalls and have linked some similar pairs below. Tonight is indeed THE BIG NIGHT. So whether you are staying-in or partying out, I hope you all have a WONDERFUL evening!!!!

XX, Megan

P.S. I’m taking a short publishing break next week to set our New Year in order and celebrate my Birthday! I’ll be popping up on Instagram, and see you all back here the second week of January!

Coat: Patagonia Ultra Light Down Jacket, Shirt: Old Navy, Scarf: J.Crew, Overalls: Target (love this similar pair, similar, save), Shoes: Nike Air Pegasus 83 (love this New Balance option), Sunglasses: Karen Walker Super Duper, Earrings: Madewell, Bag: J.Crew, Lips: MAC Lady Danger