Confession of a fashionista, I hate winter. Not dislike, nor do I find it disagreeable. I loath it entirely. The cold, the snow, defrosting my car in the mornings, shoveling the sidewalk, winter fashion, wearing so many layers I feel like an over-stuffed burrito – no thank you. Though I was able to escape the first of the year on a tropical adventure to Bali, I still came home to a fair amount of the season’s harshest.

Attempting a mental escape, I decided to have some fun with fashion, regardless of the relentless snow fall. My lifesaving piece, this xllullan winter coat. Think modern art splashed onto your childhood comforter – sewn into a luxury winter coat. It’s perfect. Just what I needed to save me from the worst of the season. The best part, it’s actually so warm, I was able to getaway with some more-than daring trends of the season.

How to look cute in the cold? Layers. And in this look, I’ve paired together some of my absolute favorite trends for 2018 fashion. Thick, opaque black tights and over-the-knee boots allowed me to get away with wearing a vinyl miniskirt even in the 40 degrees and melting snow. Vinyl fashion has made a huge debut in the fashion world this past year, and I couldn’t resist pulling it out to heat up the look. I have probably a half-dozen pair of OTK boots, and these are one of my favs – a steal from EGO official. The sock boot style makes them hug your legs while still being able to stretch over skinny jeans for more casual style.

Sheer everything is also a statement style of the season, but can be hard to pair with winter fashion. This black sheer crop with criss-cross bralette shown underneath was actually toasty warm under my blanket of a coat. Plus, when it came to cocktail hour in the evening, I was fully prepared. You can shop the brnalette style at Adore Me, and be sure to stay tuned for my Instagram story series featuring my Valentine’s day picks!

The trend no minimalist fashion blogger can miss out on this season – the newsboy cap. I picked up this one online from TopShop, but you can also find similar styles anywhere from Forever21 to top luxury fashion brands. It not only added a vintage European flair to the look, it also kept the icicles from forming in my hair during my bout outdoors.

How do you find balance between warmth, comfort and winter fashion? Here’s to staying toasty no matter the method to your madness, and may Spring arrive soon!