Smart but warm clothes

[jetsetlil]

Just got a new job as a viewing rep and already feeling the cold. I need to look smart but also need to be warm as i'm in and out of the car all day, waiting outside properties and in freezing cold houses. I really, really feel the cold too. What low heel boots go with skirts? I am not allowed to wear jeans but i was thinking skinny trousers with long boots? Oh god I really have no idea....help!

A thermal vest and/or tights/leggings can really help. As does a wool or down-filled coat (depending on what level of smartness you need to go for) and a scarf and gloves.

Low-heeled boots are okay if you're going for a smart-casual look, but heels definitely look smarter if you need to be more formally dressed.

I agree about heels but i'm thinking of when it gets snowy and icy. i will have to really layer up!

Skirts more than trousers. Especially wool lined ones. With thick tights and knee high boots. And possibly socks over tights too. Knees length ones that don't show.

Long warm wool coat.

Hat

Come to think of it, low-heeled, knee-length leather boots can look very smart. I was thinking of ankle boots, which I don't think are very smart, but long boots with a low heel can look perfectly smart with a skirt and would definitely be safer in snow and ice.

www.russellandbromley.co.uk/long-boots/gold-dryxl/invt/371122

The above linked boots are never off my feet in the winter- smart for work, with opaque tights (plus socks as well if uber cold) and skirts/dresses. They are really warm and also waterproof, with grippy soles. Also go over skinny trousers if needed due to elastic backs. I've had mine three winters now and still looking great.

I also really rate Icebreaker thermals - loads of different styles, but I love my thin long sleeved ones for under jumpers, and strappy vests for an extra layer under shirts or dresses. They aren't cheap full price but there are usually some on offer online somewhere- try the Sport Pursuit website for example. Also Smartwool socks are the warmest things ever for under boots in winter.

Can you tell I like keeping warm!

Also meant to say my favourite work outfit for when its very cold is those boots, thick tights, a tweedy skirt (eg boden.co.uk/en-GB/Womens-Skirts/Mini-Skirts/WG498/Womens-British-Tweed-Kilt.html ) and a cashmere or lambswool sweater (Pure Collection cashmere if feeling flush) with Icebreaker(s) underneath- cosy bliss!

Plus long wool coat or down jacket, wooly hat and gloves (Brora for the latter two ideally- Christmas present?)

Boden wool trousers -choice here www.boden.co.uk/en-GB/Womens-Workwear-range.html
M&S heat gen top www.marksandspencer.com/Heatgen-Long-Sleeve-Thermal-Top/dp/B0038FTE8I?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_5&nodeId=42966030&sr=1-5&qid=1383600452&pf_rd_r=00RF57H4A67888E3S3XX&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=0&pf_rd_p=321381407&pf_rd_s=center-3
You could also add the heat gen leggings under the trousers if really cold.
Add a top plus cardi or jumper of choice.
Two pairs of socks.
Warm coat of choice - loads of current S&B threads on this topic.
Boots as previously posted or alternatively sheepskin insoles in your existing footwear of choice - check out Celtic sheepskin or Amazon to order in your sized.
HTH

Thank you all...some great ideas here. I will check them out