How to put your most fashionable (and bundled) foot forward during a Canadian winter

It's hard to look like more than a bundled up blob in the dead of winter. And if the freezing temperatures and messy slush have you waddling around in layers yearning for the days of sandals and sundresses, we feel you. But seeing as how us Canadians endure winter for months on end, there's no need to forego fashion for comfort and practicality. When a deep freeze hits, cozy is key. If you're struggling to put your most fashionable foot forward this winter, wardrobe stylist Casey Jane Tuninga stopped by the show to reveal her top picks that will help keep you warm while still standing out this winter. 

Blanket scarf styled on calf-length coat

Long coats are essential in chilly weather. If you're on the shorter side, you can still rock a long coat— the key is to make sure that it's the only lengthening accent you're wearing. Go for long and lean shapes in a wool coat and pair it with a nice ankle boot instead of a knee-length boot to avoid cutting yourself off at the knee. The goal is to draw the eye downwards to add a lengthening effect.

Blanket scarves can be so cozy but can be hard to pull off. To style it, treat it like a regular scarf and wrap it around your neck. Pull the back out to give you extra cozy coverage and create a mini hood. You can invest in a quality neutral coat that will last you for years, and keep it exciting by changing up your scarf choice. Try throwing it around your shoulders to create a mini vest-shape that will add a longer line to the look, but tuck it behind the lapels of your jacket to keep it from looking like you wore a blanket to the office.

(Get the look: Scarf: H&M; Coat: Zara; Top: H&M; Pant: H&M; Boot: H&M; Bag: H&M)

Winter boots

Casey unpacked three different types of boots. Pick the one that's best for the wintery weather you get hit with most in your area. Shop for a pair that is thermal, insulated, and has tread and your feet will stay warm and dry no matter what mother nature throws your way.

Boots for wet and slush

When winter gets wet and slushy, rubber boots are your best bet because they can be winterized by simply adding a lining. Inserts are great for warmth and they're 100% waterproof. If you can't find a lining that fits your boot exactly, leg warmers are a great alternative. Tall rubber boots are great because they're high enough on the leg to keep out slush, and salt easily washes off. This type of footwear is great for you Vancouverites who experience more slush than actual snow.

(Get the look: Rubber boots and lining; Hunter)

Stylish winter boots

Despite what you've heard, heels in winter are doable! Look for pairs that have a tread on the heel so you won't bailout on your way to work. A thick, chunky heel or wedge is key — winter is not the time to wear stilettos. Again, be sure to go for a pair that's insulated and waterproof.

(Get the look: Green leather bootie: Sorel; Ankle boot: Sorel)

Boots for deep winter

Boots don't need to be massive and heavy to help your feet stay warm. The key is to look for 100% winterized boots that have insulated linings and less bulk, such as a great shearling lining. It's also super on-trend right now — not just in boots but in jackets as well — plus it will help you stay cozy all season long.

(Get the look: Black boot; Cougar: Shearling boot: Sorel)

Shearling jacket

For layering, you want the lightest layer to be the closest to your body so that it won't add bulk, and layer the thickest on top. If you're petite it's key to try to create a longer body line with your jacket, so make sure your coat hits one or two inches over the belt. For extra warmth, try out high-waisted pants with thermal detail lining and pair them with a higher knee-length boot.

(Get the look: Coat: Zara; Top: H&M; Turtleneck: H&M; Pant: H&M; Bag: H&M)

Wool vest

This look centred around a wool vest is great because you can pair it with multiple items from your wardrobe and bring new life into your winter pieces. Layer a long vest over a waist-length jacket to add dimension and extra warmth that will elongate your frame. Make sure to pair with an ankle boot — with all the long layers worn on top, you'll need to balance the look with a shorter boot. Opt for a vest that will work with all your jackets in a contrasting colour. You don't want the vest to match because it will just blend in, adding bulk but not adding to the look. And to finish off the look, add a little glam with a jeweled toque.  

(Get the look: Vest: Zara; Coat: Zara; Top: H&M; Pant: H&M; Shoe: H&M; Bag: H&M; Toque: H&M; Gloves: Zara)

Rock a parka

It can be tough to know what to do with such a large piece like a parka and not look or feel like a snowman. For petite women, look for coats that don't go past the knee. This length is flattering but still keeps your core warm. Low ankle boots are key to this look because they help to create a long line. This jacket has a thermal vest underneath, which is great because when worn open, it outlines the waist (key for petite frames), and helps you to stay warm when going from outdoors to indoors. Because parkas often have such thick hoods, it's great to use ear muffs or headbands when you're not in the middle of a blizzard. Many of these pieces are adorned with jewels this season, which will add some needed sparkle to the cold months ahead.

(Get the look: Coat: Soia & Kyo; Top: H&M; Pant: H&M; Boot: Cougar; Bag: H&M; Headband: H&M; Gloves: Zara)