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

I workout to a lot of dance and pop music, so I guess it’s no surprise that lyrics like “bad little mama” get stuck in my head. It’s a line from Macklemore’s Downtown.

Which might also be appropriate for this post as you prep for any New Year’s Eve soirees downtown, uptown, wherever the merriment takes you.

Sometimes it’s fun to get all dressed in sequins and bows for a party. Sometimes it’s fun to go all black like this get-up. Plus, black gives you a fabulous opportunity to play with texture.

So if you’re looking for some sparkle for NYE– you’re covered. Plus, please don’t think that I only bring out the sequin extras for dressy party occasions.

I’d wear this same shirt any given day of the week with jeans and ankle booties and maybe even an anorak to keep things casual.

Have a wonderful next few days!

XX, Megan

Jacket: Gap (similar), Sweater: Express (past season, similar, save, splurge, cardigan, fun!, skirt, pant, pant), Pants: BLANKNYC faux leather, Shoes: Nine West, Clutch: Target, Sunglasses: Ray-ban, Earrings: Gorjana, Lips: Clinique Black Honey

Just like that Christmas is gone and the New Year is upon us! Yes, time truly does fly.

If you’re looking to SHINE this NYE I’ve linked some stellar disco-ball dress options below.

We’ll be celebrating in Las Vegas, so I’ll most likely get to leave my boots and coat behind. I may even have to sub flats for heels as we walk about and enjoy the mayhem.

What are your NYE plans? I hope 2016 is your best year yet!!!

XX, Megan

Coat: J.Crew, Blazer: Banana Republic, Dress: B.B. Dakota (similar, similar, similar), Boots: Sorel Joan of Arctic, Pumps: Nine West, Necklace: Vintage, Earrings: Kate Spade, Beanie: Anthropologie, Lips: Clinique Vintage Wine