Fashion

12 Cold-Weather Layers That Are Both Toasty and Stylish

It's just as bitter cold as it was during Little House on the Prairie days, but thankfully we have ridiculously advanced clothing technology that "wicks" away moisture, warms our shivering bones, and generally helps us survive the winter. While Laura Ingalls and her sisters had to bundle up in blankets and scratchy long underwear, we've got everything from silk leggings to cashmere underwear on our side.

Best of all, we can stay warm without looking overly bulky — the wonders of the modern world! Goodbye, chunky Long Johns and grandpa-worthy flannels with a flap in the back. We'll take a sleek wool turtleneck and some fleece-lined leggings instead, thanks.

Image: Fotolia

by Tori Telfer

Fleece leggings

These plush-lined sweats are perfect for lounging around the house in impeccably off-duty style.

Cozy Fleece Leggings, $39.95, gap.com

Fleece leggings

And when you actually need to leave the house, no one will guess that these patterned leggings are lined with fleece, too. It’s like you’re living a double life.

Pink & Peach Fleece-Lined Leggings, $10, zulily.com

Cashmere underwear

Say goodbye to your drawer of lacy underthings (for now); heavy-duty weather requires attention to warmth in all areas of the wardrobe.

Cashmere Panties, $38, etsy.com

Flannel underwear

They’re called “bum warmers.” And, well — yes.

Bun Warmers, $14.80, vermontflannel.com

Wool boyshorts

These boy shorts have just enough of a grandpa-in-the-woods vibe to be adorable, and they’re perfect for layering under a skirt or dress.

Women’s Wool Shorts Underwear, $36, etsy.com

Wool turtleneck

Oh look, it’s a classic black turtleneck, the staple of any grown-up wardrobe. It’s specifically designed to keep you warm — but no one will be able to tell.

Icebreaker BodyFit 260 Tech Turtleneck Top, $100, backcountry.com

Wool tank top

For sleeker outfits, a toasty wool tank top is the perfect way to add heat without bulk.

Woolies 150 Camisole, $30, shop.ibex.com

Wool tights

When cocktailing in a knee-length dress, a set of wool tights is your greatest hope.

Smartwool Chevron Tight, $47, zappos.com

Wool legwarmers

Dancers aren’t the only ones who could use a little extra warmth around their ankles.

Deers Hand Knit Wool Leg Warmers, $56, etsy.com

Cashmere long socks

Just the thing for boots that don’t quite keep you warm enough.

Cashmere Knee Socks, $20, sahalie.blair.com

A warm bra

I looked and looked for a stylish cold-weather bra, but they just don’t exist. This simple sports bra might not win any CFDA awards, but it’s much more streamlined than the other, sportier options out there. Plus, it wicks moisture away from your skin to keep the girls from getting chilly.

Cold Crusher Sports Bra, $32, titlenine.com

A silk set

For the absolute ultimate in lightweight warmth, you’ve gotta invest in a silk set of long underwear. No more itching or bulky discomfort; it’s like wearing a soft, warm, and totally non-creepy second skin.

Lightweight Low Rise Long John Pant (find a matching top here), $35, wintersilks.blair.com

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