Nordstrom asked me to create an ensemble that combines the new UGG boots with other items from around the store. Although I am not a big fan of classic UGGs (the soft bedroom slipper variety that is pulled on over the foot) for anything other than loungewear, I am a big fan of what I call proper UGG boots. These sturdy boots are weatherproof, warm, robust, comfortable and well made. My clients find killer UGG boots every season and this year was no exception. 

The UGG Deanna boot is particularly fab, and I would have added it to my own casual boot capsule had I not invested in a similar boot last year. I like the shade of cinnamon brown, the extreme comfort of the soft suede, and the way they fit very closely around my calf. Furthermore, mid-calf boots worn over jeans make for a fun change from their taller counterparts. 

We were about to take a short road trip to the rain forest near Seattle, so I was inspired to think about a stylish walk in the woods when I put together this ensemble. It is actually also a very appropriate outfit for any casual gal on the go in cold, damp weather. Add in a casual cross body bag and you’re sorted.

The ensemble is pretty ageless and the colour palette is up to you. I’ve chosen blush, burgundy (the colour of the season), and neutrals like Winter white, ink blue, black and brown. Here are the components:

• Plaid Shirt: The casual plaid shirt is big. It’s cozy, relaxed and perfect layered under a pullover. I like Maison’s Scotch Embellished Plaid Shirt because the pinks are pretty and the beaded epaulettes make the shirt look more interesting when worn on its own. 
• Patterned Sweater: Pattern mixing a two toned stripe or polka dot over an untucked plaid shirt is a combination that I have enjoyed wearing this season. Only Mine’s Polka Dot Cashmere Sweater is fun, neutral, non-itch and tailored. 
• Chunky Sweater: If layering a fine gauge pullover over a shirt is not your thing, try an on trend chunky sweater. I have a thing for large cream cables this season, which is why I chose Juicy Couture’s  Chunky Cable Turtleneck Sweater. The high-low hemline gives the top more structure. 
• Mid-Calf Boots: The shorter length makes for a refreshing change when worn over jeans. As I mentioned above, UGG’s Deanna boot gets my top vote, but the quilted integrity of the UGG Conor boot is also great. My fussy feet were happy in both styles. 
• Straight Leg Jeans: I like the look of straight leg jeans tucked into mid-calf boots, like Citizens of Humanity’s Avas, because they are roomier on the lower leg. The extra fabric creates extra scrunch, which can look more appealing than sleeker skinnies tucked into shorter boots.
• Wool or Puffer Coat: My puffer comes out when it’s extremely cold, otherwise I stick to a wool coat. Mackage’s Marine Belted Bib Front Coat is as warm as a puffer because it’s heavy and double layered in front. I have a few happy clients in this elegantly casual coat this year because the cut and colour is superb. Tahari’s Adelle Pillow Collar Coat is a more casual alternative, although still quite chic. 
• Warm Winter Accessories: Finish off the outfit with a scarf and gloves. Hats are optional unless it’s very cold. Nordstrom’s Tissue Weight Wool & Cashmere Wrap is not bulky, which makes it work well over chunky knits and outerwear with high collars. Cashmere lined gloves are a must for my cold hands, which don’t stay warm in unlined gloves. Fownes Brothers ‘Basic Tech’ Cashmere Lined Leather Gloves are ideal and come in a variety of colours. I chose black because that worked best with this outerwear, but by all means opt for a fun colour. 

As with all the outfit formulas, I sow the seed of an idea. The next step is to substitute the items that work for you and reflect your style persona. For example, on our woodsy walk last week, I added in thermal undies for extra insulation and wore slouchy skinnies tucked into boots instead of straight leg jeans. I also wore an ink blue and cream striped turtleneck over my plaid shirt instead of a polka dot. Now that I have a chunky cream cabled pullover, I can also wear that over my plaid shirt. Lots of possibilities.