how to wear a black dress in the winter

20 TRENDY WINTER NAIL COLORS THAT ALWAYS LOOK SO ELEVATED

Winter is the perfect time to experiment with rich, luxurious nail polish colors. The cool temperatures and cozy fashion trends create the perfect backdrop for showcasing subtle shades. Whether you’re classic or bold, there’s a winter nail polish shade to suit your style.

Do you love simple colors? Is your fashion passion for edgy looks? These gorgeous colors will take your nails to the next level! From rich jewel tones to icy pastels, we’ve got you covered. So get ready to dive into some great nail inspiration!

CLASSIC CHERRY RED

Winter wouldn’t be complete without the timeless appeal of classic red nails. A striking crimson red is a versatile shade that transcends seasons, making it a year-round favorite. Achieving salon-like results at home is easier than you might think, especially with dark shades that look stunning on short nails when finished with a glossy clear coat. This vibrant hue ensures your nails become a statement piece, adding a pop of color to brighten up the chilly winter days.

HOT PINK

Hot pink may seem like a summer staple, but Goldstein says it’s a winter staple, too. This bold, bright hue adds a touch of fun and playfulness to the colder months, perfect for those who want a playful, feminine look. A simple coat of clear paint, or a more pink ombre, it is the perfect addition to your Barbie wardrobe.

WINTER WHITES

Winter white is the epitome of elegance and sophistication, perfect for a serene look. This timeless shade offers a crisp, clean look that works with any winter wardrobe, from cozy knits to glamorous eveningwear. Available in pure snow white or subtle ivory with a hint of shimmer, this versatile colour is simple and chic.

MAGIC MAGENTA

Magic Magenta is a captivating nail polish that will transform your winter look with ease. This vibrant, eye-catching shade combines the boldness of pink with a hint of deep purple, creating a captivating shade that stands out in the colder months. Perfect for those who love to make a statement, Magic Magenta adds a sophisticated yet glamorous touch to any outfit. Your nails will sparkle with the allure and appeal of Magic Magenta all winter long.

FOILED GOLD

There’s something undeniably luxurious about gold, and our nails deserve a little extra glam. Whether it’s all-gold or just a touch of gold, this design will instantly add a pop of color to your look. Consider a deep, rich gold for a classic feel, or go for a champagne hue for a softer, more elegant feel. You can also pair gold with complementary colors like navy, emerald green, or even black…

’90S MOTIF

The 90s are making a nostalgic comeback this winter, bringing your nails to life with vintage charm and playful designs. Inspired by the bold, eclectic style of the 1990s, this trend features vibrant colours, vintage prints and abstract imagery. The 90s are perfect for those who love to experiment and have fun with their nails, expressing their individuality and carefree spirit.

ONE-COAT SHIMMER

One-Coat Shimmer is the ultimate solution for those looking for effortless elegance this winter. This mining nail polish offers a stunning finish that is simple yet glamorous. With a combination of pony and matte finishes, One-Coat Shimmer offers a radiant shine that perfectly catches the light, ideal for those who are busy but still want their nails to stand out. With a light shine without the need for multiple layers, let your nails glide on and catch every look all winter long.

IMPRESSIONISM-INSPIRED ART

Drawing from the soft brushstrokes and dreamy color palettes of the Impressionist movement, this trend features delicate, painterly designs that evoke the beauty of famous masterpieces. Imagine serene landscapes, blooming gardens, and shimmering water scenes, all captured in subtle hues and intricate details. Perfect for those who appreciate fine art and want to express their creativity, Impressionism-Inspired Art nails offer a unique and sophisticated way to celebrate the season.

FRENCH PEARL

The French Pearl nail adds a sophisticated twist to the classic French manicure, complete with a glossy finish. This elegant look has a soft shine that enhances the natural beauty of your nails while creating a subtle, eye-catching shimmer. For those who love timeless elegance or a modern style, the French Pearl is the perfect choice.

DEEP RED

Deep red are the embodiment of timeless sophistication, bringing a rich and impressive touch to your winter look. This luxurious shade brings luxury, confidence and elegance. Imagine a romantic scene on Christmas Eve, you are with that special someone. You are wearing a luxurious dress, shining under the sparkling lights, and your hands are carefully cared for, decorated with a touch of wine-red, creating charm and mystery. This is a great choice for anyone who loves to stand out without lost of the sophistication.

MIDNIGHT BLACK

Midnight Black is the perfect choice for those who want to make a strong and sophisticated statement this winter. With its mysterious and deep black color, this color brings a mysterious and elegant beauty, like a starry night sky. The glossy finish of Midnight Black not only creates a striking contrast with any outfit, but also creates a luxurious and seductive feeling. Whether you are preparing for a special evening or simply want to add personality to your everyday look, Midnight Black will make your nails the center of attention with its simple and attractive beauty.

DARK BROWN NAIL

To make your hands whiter and smoother, you can choose a dark brown nail style like pine wood. On the cold winter sky, when you wear a thick mouse-colored sweater, revealing a little brown from your hands will make you stand out more than ever. This combination creates a natural and warm beauty, creating an attractive highlight without being too ostentatious. The brown nail polish color for winter will also make your hands attractive and attract all eyes.

EXTREME MINIMALISM

When it comes to sweetness and elegance, Extreme Minimalism is the perfect choice. With a neutral light pink color, like the color of the Dancer’s Dress chiffon, it will be a great choice for women who want a beautiful and delicate set of nails. The simple Extreme Minimalism nail polish will make your hands gentle and natural, creating an elegant, gentle and luxurious beauty.

CREAMY BEIGE

Beige nails offer a sophisticated and casual elegance that compliments winter looks. This versatile shade combines the warmth of beige with a soft, creamy finish, creating a neutral palette that is both chic and timeless. Perfect for those who prefer a minimalist style or want a subtle base to complement more intricate designs, Beige offers a clean, polished look. Its soft tones blend easily with a variety of outfits and occasions, making it an ideal choice for every outfit in your wardrobe.

CHOCOLATE MILK

This warm, creamy shade offers the cozy appeal of a classic brown with a smooth, milk-chocolate finish that evokes a sense of luxury and comfort.  Its versatile tone complements a range of outfits and occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. 

BURGUNDY

Burgundy, oxblood, wine—the gang’s all here for this deep color that is always a favorite come fall and winter. These rich, sultry shades exude sophistication and timeless elegance. For a truly indulgent manicure, incorporate a variety of hues within the burgundy family by opting for an aura or ombré design.

MUTED MAUVE

Not quite pink, but not quite berry, mauve strikes the perfect balance . This versatile shade offers a soft, muted tone that combines the warmth of pink with the depth of berry, creating a sophisticated and understated color. This style is surprisingly adaptable, lending itself to both soft, romantic looks and bolder, edgier styles.

SILVERY CHROME

This striking shade combines the classic allure of silver with a high-shine, chrome effect, creating a dazzling look that captures the light from every angle. Perfect for those who love to make a bold statement, Silvery Chrome adds a touch of modern sophistication and glamor to any outfit. Its reflective surface enhances the elegance of your nails, making them a standout feature at any event. 

DEEP ENGLISH GREEN

Deep English Green nails exude a rich, timeless sophistication that perfectly complements the winter season. This deep, forest green shade evokes the classic elegance of traditional British style, offering a luxurious and understated alternative to brighter colors. Its dark, velvety finish adds a touch of refinement and depth to your manicure, making it ideal for both formal occasions and everyday wear. Deep English Green pairs beautifully with a range of outfits, from cozy knits to evening attire, ensuring your nails always look polished and sophisticated.

CONCLUSION

Winter is the ideal season to elevate your nail game with rich, sophisticated hues. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of classic shades or the daring allure of unexpected colors, there’s a perfect winter nail color waiting to be discovered. So, embrace the cooler months and let your nails be a stylish reflection of the season.

Experiment with different shades, textures, and nail art to create a look that’s uniquely yours. Remember, the best winter nail color is the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful.

WHAT TO WEAR IN LONDON: A FIRST-TIMER’S PACKING GUIDE

London, a city of iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture, can also be a bit of a fashion enigma. With its unpredictable weather and a blend of classic and contemporary style, packing for your first trip can be daunting. But fear not! This guide will equip you with essential packing tips to ensure you’re stylish and comfortable throughout your London adventure. Whether you’re planning a summer stroll through Hyde Park or a winter visit to Buckingham Palace, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the art of packing for London!

CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT TO WEAR IN LONDON?

Lucky you! If you’ve been following this blog for a while, you know I’m a dedicated anglophile. I’m always planning my next trip to London, and I firmly believe the British capital is the greatest city in the world. Sure, other cities might have better food, nicer weather, or fewer tourists, but, as J.K. Rowling aptly put it, you can’t beat “the history and mystery of London.” The city boasts some of the world’s greatest museums, proximity to excellent day trip destinations, vibrant nightlife, the West End, stunning hotels, historic and cutting-edge shopping, and, of course, that unique pub life.

With all that said, dressing for London as a tourist can be quite the challenge. You want to look stylish in one of the chicest cities in the world, but you’ll also be walking up to 15 miles a day, standing in long lines, and heading out for fancy meals. Plus, it could rain at any moment, often unexpectedly and for varying durations.

But don’t worry! With several trips to the U.K. under my belt, I can help ease your packing anxieties and create the perfect London packing list. So, check that weather forecast (spoiler: there’s a chance of rain), and let’s get those bags packed for an unforgettable trip to London!

REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR PACKING CUBES!

No packing guide would be complete without mentioning my secret weapon: packing cubes! They keep everything organized before, during, and after your trip. I love how they help keep small items neat and tidy in the hotel room, and they’re also perfect for packing souvenirs on your way home!

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN LONDON?

Weather is a key factor when packing for any trip, and in London, the ever-present chance of rain often takes precedence over seasonal changes. London experiences the typical four seasons, but temperatures are generally milder compared to the extremes found in the central U.S. For example, July averages around 74°F during the day and 59°F at night, while December sees temperatures of about 48°F during the day and 40°F at night. So, while summers are warmer, they’re not excessively hot—leave the short shorts at home, as many homes and public places in the UK lack air conditioning. On the flip side, you probably won’t need that heavy Canada Goose coat in winter.

DOES IT REALLY RAIN THAT OFTEN IN LONDON?

Yes, it does rain frequently in London. While you might encounter an occasional all-day downpour, it’s more common to experience unexpected showers, often in the afternoon or at inconvenient times. Londoners seem unfazed, often carrying on with their day in wool suits as if the drizzle doesn’t bother them at all. This can put a damper on your sightseeing plans, so having a reliable umbrella and a durable rain jacket is essential. We’ll dive into more details on this later.

WHAT TO WEAR IN LONDON

A TRENCH COAT

The British trench coat is a must-have for any trip to the U.K. Burberry remains the classic choice, now offered in various shorter and more colorful styles. If you prefer a subtler look, a darker, less conspicuous trench is a great option. J.Crew also offers some stylish trench coats that are worth checking out!

A BARBOUR JACKET

Barbour, a quintessential English brand, offers a range of jackets from traditional waxed styles to lighter, quilted options. The waxed jacket is particularly waterproof and, with the addition of a hood, is ideal for a day of sightseeing. Regardless of the season, Barbour is my top choice for exploring London. You’ll enjoy the classic charm of a British brand while staying prepared for any unexpected showers.

The Queen was famously fond of her Barbour coat. When she sent it in for refurbishment—a common practice with Barbour coats, designed to last a lifetime—the company offered her a new one. She graciously declined, preferring to keep her well-loved old coat!

A FEW TOPS

Finding the right sweaters for your trip to the U.K. is essential, as the damp weather can feel chillier than it might actually be. Even if it’s not extremely cold, you’ll appreciate having cozy sweaters to keep warm, especially when enjoying classic British comforts like pubs, tea, and a Sunday roast.

Unless you’re visiting during the peak of summer, packing at least one warm sweater is a must. I prefer turtlenecks for colder months, including spring and fall, as they eliminate the need for a scarf. Brands like Eileen Fisher offer excellent options. Ensure your sweaters fit comfortably under the coat you plan to bring by trying them on together before you leave. For additional options, consider checking out Orvis, LL Bean, and J McLaughlin for dressier sweaters.

Also, pack a couple of lightweight long-sleeved shirts that can easily fit under your jacket. If you need a few nicer tops for evenings out, include them, but don’t overpack blouses. In most cases, a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt will suffice, especially if you’re spending most evenings in the pub.

FEW PAIRS OF PERFECT PANTS

A fun fact to note is that in the U.K., “pants” refers to underpants, so use “jeans” or “trousers” when talking about what Americans call “pants.” For your trip, a pair of jeans and some casual black trousers should work well. I recommend Eileen Fisher’s crepe pants for comfortable travel. As for leggings, they are acceptable in London, but make sure to pair them with a longer shirt or tunic for a polished look.

THE RIGHT SHOES

Finding the right shoes for a trip to Europe can be challenging, but it’s essential for both comfort and style. For London, I recommend packing:

Knee-High or Ankle Boots: These are versatile and great for dealing with rain and walking long distances.

Loafers: Ideal for days when the weather is milder or when you want a break from boots. I’ve found Sam Edelman loafers to be particularly comfortable and stylish.

Clean Sneakers: Opt for a pair that’s not too sporty, like Veja, which are both fashionable and comfortable.

If you’re visiting during the summer, consider bringing a pair of sandals for quick outings, but skip the beach flip-flops, as they can look out of place and get dirty quickly. For rainy months, waterproof boots or booties are a must. Riding boots offer excellent coverage and comfort, but if they’re not your style, ankle boots or lug boots can work as long as you can walk in them all day.

For those with evening plans, sticking to boots or loafers might be your best bet instead of packing high heels. And while sneakers have become more acceptable, sticking to clean, stylish options like Veja will keep you looking chic and comfortable, just like Kate Middleton.

A NOTE ON DRESS CODES…

In the U.K. and across Europe, some establishments such as upscale restaurants, clubs, and religious sites (though less so in the U.K.) may have dress codes. It’s a good idea to check the websites of any restaurants or theaters you plan to visit to confirm their policies on jeans and sneakers. Some places might also require men to wear jackets. As an everyday tourist, this is likely to be less of an issue for you, but it’s worth verifying to avoid any surprises.

​DRESSES

On sunny days in London, a dress with a light jacket and loafers is perfect for exploring the city. Europeans typically reserve beach flip flops for the beach, so opt for more appropriate footwear. Boden offers excellent dress options ideal for enjoying the weather or attending a West End show.

Even on warmer days, it’s smart to carry an umbrella, as British weather can be unpredictable. To stay prepared for occasional drizzles, choose fabrics that handle rain well and consider adding tights, leggings, a scarf, and black riding boots. This will ensure you stay cozy and stylish, regardless of the weather.

PURSES FOR LONDON

When choosing a purse for London, the most crucial feature is that it should close fully to deter pickpockets, especially at popular tourist spots and on public transport. While I found London to be less prone to pickpocketing compared to other cities, it’s still wise to avoid large, open tote bags.

Opt for a small, lightweight purse that can carry just the essentials: an umbrella, money, credit cards, your phone, and an Oyster Card. A small crossbody bag is a great choice for ease of access and security. If you prefer more space, the Longchamp Le Pliage is a classic option, even if it’s not British—it’s stylish and practical, and if it’s good enough for The Princess of Wales, it’s good enough for me! For a British touch, check out The Cambridge Satchel Co., known for its beautifully crafted, traditional handbags. I picked up a saddle bag with a long crossbody strap there, perfect for easy touring.

WINTER COAT AND UMBRELLA

When packing for London, consider that it doesn’t usually get extremely cold. If you’re short on space, you might skip a winter coat in favor of a heavy Barbour jacket. However, if you’re traveling between December and March or plan to spend time in colder regions of the U.K., including a winter coat is advisable, especially for evenings out when you might want to dress up.

Avoid bringing your nicest wool coat due to the frequent rain. If you do bring a winter coat, consider packing a trench coat as well. For rainy days, an umbrella is essential. I recommend a compact umbrella that fits into a coat pocket or a small purse for convenience. If you prefer a larger umbrella, it’s often best to buy one once you arrive or borrow one from your hotel rather than lugging it with you.

KEEPING KIDS DRY

Keeping kids dry in London’s persistent rain can be a challenge, but it’s essential for a happy trip. Invest in high-quality waterproof jackets and pants that are both practical and stylish. Don’t forget sturdy, waterproof boots to keep little feet dry. Pack plenty of layers so you can adjust to changing weather conditions. And remember, a good sense of humor and a positive attitude can go a long way in embracing the rain!

CONCLUSION

Packing for London might seem tricky, but with a little planning, you can be ready for anything the city throws your way. Remember, layers are key, and don’t forget that iconic London style often involves a mix of classic and contemporary. So, embrace the unpredictable weather, pack versatile pieces, and get ready to explore this incredible city in style. Happy travels!