The overarching conundrum in fashion right now is whether to embrace all things comfort minded or to lean in to the glamour left in life and dress to the nines even if only you (or no more than 9 people you're related to) are there to see it. The possibility of unperceived existence aside, we subscribe to a theory that falls somewhere in between. You can look polished—or cool, or chic, or whatever word describes your best inner being—without giving up an ounce of ease. Should that mean donning your tennis whites all winter long, investing in cozy coats, or indulging in #cottagecore, nap dresses, or lingerie all day, there's a cold-weather trend for you.
To prove it, BAZAAR.com took model and musician Julia Cumming on location to Troutbeck, a dream getaway in Amenia, New York to explore some forest bathing and stream hiking—and style her in the most standout—and wearable—looks of the season.
Tennis, Anyone?
Tennis whites are not a summer-only endeavor. Bring that prep sensibility into the winter months with suiting and sweaters that would look just as good on the court as off.
Cottagecore
The origin story of now Insta-famous #cottagecore can be found in the romanticization of Western agriculture and getting back to the essence of feminine prairie life. In other words, leave restrictive denim behind in favor of the prettiest dress you can find for frolicking through the nearest stream.
Knit Wit
Winter is about nesting, and nothing makes you feel more tucked in at home than a super-cozy knit. Layer on two or three, and add some cashmere socks while you're at it too.
Plaid About It
Maybe we're collectively finding solace in traditional American staples like plaid, but that doesn't mean designers are focusing them through a traditional lens. Take your tartans on dresses with leathers or layered on Japanese coats—the rules no longer apply.
Nap Dress
It's as simple as this: Get you a dress that can go from dinner alfresco to the couch for a film viewing without needing a costume change. Options include pre-wrinkled fabrics, or anything comfortable enough to transition to nightgown status. We won't tell anyone.
Ride or Die
One silver lining of a tumultuous eight months is how many people returned to the stables to reacquaint themselves with some trots and gallops. But another silver lining is that we can all embrace the tailored look of a smart equestrian ensemble—no horses required.
Lingerie All Day
When we say all day, we do not jest. Get your prettiest lace, silks, and camis ready for the full-24 hour sprint, from your morning matcha to your evening glass of wine. Comfort doesn't come only in cotton.
Cozy Coats
Extend your stellar sweatpants game into the realm of toppers by investing in coats with major lounge factor. From furs to shearlings and anything oversized and comforting to the touch—it's called self-soothing, and you can take it to the streets.
Photography by Annie Powers | Model: Julia Cumming | Styled by Kerry Pieri | Weddings & Travel Director: Carrie Goldberg | Makeup by Christine Cherbonnier At The Wall Group using Shiseido | Hair by Clara Lenoard at The Wall Group using Oribe | Digital Designer: Ingrid Frahm | Visual Editor & Producer: Cori Jayne Howarth | Production Assistant: Elias Tejada | Photo Assistant: Douglas Segars | Photo Assistant: Matt Baffa | Fashion Group: Kia Goosby| Fashion Group: Danielle Flum | Fashion Group: Andrea Zendejas | Fashion Group: Eunice Bruno | Special thanks to Troutbeck in Amneia, NY
Kerry Pieri is Harper's Bazaar's Digital Fashion/Features Director. Kerry oversees the fashion vertical for BAZAAR.com, including launching digital covers, styling celebrity features, and managing recurring features including Brand Watch and My Life in Three Looks. In addition, Kerry edits the “best of” each season, from shoes to bags, denim and coats, and is consistently looking for shifts in the fashion realm to lend a voice. Kerry formerly served as the Editorial Director of StyleCaster.com and as a producer at Full Frontal Fashion. She lives in New York with her husband Steve, and baby girl Lila Sky.