Only $30! Click to shop.

by Renae Virata

I LOVE my rainboots.  They are so practical for a walk with my little pug or a quick jaunt to the grocery store on a wet day.  I decided, however, that practical doesn’t have to LOOK practical. So I searched high and low for the perfect pair of limited-edition-Jimmy-Choo-Hunter look-alikes and finally found them.  My black reptile-textured rubber wellies work with so much in my closet that they have a very real and proper spot on my shoe rack.  And you can find your perfect pair, too!

Rainboots now come in a variety of heights, heels, prints, colors – and even in flats!  Let’s face it, rainy fall and snowy winter weather can still be quite warm through October and November for many of us, so a good, light, rubber boot or flat in a chic silhouette is a godsend.

If you want to actually make some fashion sense out of your pair when it rains:

• When the weather is warm and muggy…Try a tank and shorts/mini skirt or a sundress.
• When the weather is cool and damp…Consider tights or leggings with a longer tee/tank, a light rain jacket, and a light scarf.
• When the weather is cold…Wear your boots over tights, leggings, or jeans with a tunic sweater, scarf and water-resistant/proof jacket.

Complete your outfit with any of the styles below (click on the links to learn more and shop each style).

____________________________________________________________________________

Want to know the easiest way to know what to wear for the weather where you live or are going to?  Use our

Fashion Forecast tool to shop the latest styles and what’s missing in your wardrobe this season!

____________________________________________________________________________

Hunter wedge rain boot $175

Nomad cowgirl rain boot (more colors, prints, and in ankle boot style) $56

Sorel buckle rain boot $180

Sorel rain boots $110

Crocs low rain boot $54.99

Nomad rain shoe (more colors!) $42

Cougar Ranking rain boot $59.95

Modcloth $34.99

Valentino rain boot $745

The North Face rain boot $90

Betsey Johnson $68.99

Old Navy rain boot $34.94

Chinese Laundry rain boot (more prints and solids!) $59.99

Crocband flat (more colors!) $24.99

Urban Outfitters matte rain boot $48Mark McNairy wellies $29.99

Hunter rain boot (more prints and solids!) $125

Chooka rain boot (more prints and solids!) $58.65

]]> http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/rain-boots-that-add-a-little-sunshine/feed/ 1 http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/skin-care-for-the-slopes/ http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/2011/10/skin-care-for-the-slopes/#comments Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:16:00 +0000 sameerawtw http://blog.wearevertheweather.com/?p=5695

by Sameera Ahmed

Winter’s just about here and that means a lot of us will be heading to the slopes.  While I love snowboarding, I definitely don’t like the toll it takes on my skin. I’m always left with tight, dry, wind- and sunburned skin after a day on the slopes – not pretty!  After much trial and error, here are some tried and true ways to keep your skin baby soft on the slopes.

Moisturize

Giving your skin a protective barrier against the cold and wind is incredibly important!  Look for an emollient moisturizer with:

• healthy oils, like evening primrose, avocado and safflower oils
• ceramides to protect and reinforce the skin’s barrier
• vitamin e
• humectants, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to draw moisture to the skin
• petrolatum – this is one of the only times I’ll ever recommend using this, but it’s great on the slopes as it provides a protective barrier on the skin to fend off windburn

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream 2 oz

This ultra-hydrating cream protects and repairs dry, scaly skin.  With ceramides to strengthen, glycerin, white tea and colloidal oatmeal to protect from and heal skin irritation, this super emollient moisturizer is perfect for the slopes!  It also contains shea butter and dimethicone to create a barrier against the cold, wet snow.

At only $12, you can afford to use it everywhere, especially on any skin exposed to the elements.

Protect against UV Damage

Sun protection is always important, but it’s especially so on the slopes due to the elevation and glare from the snow, which causes those sneaky sun rays to bounce around and cause damage from all angles.  Thankfully, the majority of skin will be covered with scarves, jackets and hats, but sun protection is a must for any exposed skin.

Look for a sun block (not sun screen) with an SPF rating of at least 40.  I prefer to use a combination of chemical and non-chemical sun protection ingredients when skiing – the chemical ingredients help boost the protective level of the physical blocks (like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide).  Fully physical blocks do great as well, but make sure to reapply after a few runs, when snow spray can cause sunblock to run.  I like:

Josie Maran Protect Daily Sun Protection Argan Oil Infused SPF 40+ 2 oz

This Argan Oil infused sun block is perfect for all skin types.  With both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, it provides an SPF of 40+ so you’re sure to avoid the dreaded goggle tan line.  Because this only uses physical blocks, be sure to reapply throughout the day for adequate coverage.

This spf hydrator is also great for protecting skin with Vitamin E, pomegranate, jojoba and Argan Oils, all excellent for soothing and protecting skin against dryness and irritation.

Apres-Ski Care

Origins Pure Cream™ Rinseable Cleanser 5 oz

After spending a day on the slopes, nothing sounds better than a hot shower or soak.  Just be careful not to immerse yourself in water that’s too hot, as it can further dry and irritate skin.  Start by cleansing the face with a sulfate-free, creamy cleanser to remove sweat and sunblock residue.

Then, opt for a warm to slightly hot shower, and use a gentle soap to cleanse without stripping skin.   Avoid the urge to scrub; you don’t want to irritate already sensitized skin.  Immediately after stepping out of the shower, apply an oil and top with a cream for both face and body on moist skin.

Josie Maran Organic Argan Oil 1.7 oz

This will seal in much needed moisture, ensuring your skin feels soft and dewy.  If your skin is feeling extra dry or flaky, just pat a little extra oil on top and smooth any flakes down.  Now, you’re free to prance around the ski village in your cutest ski bunny outfit, looking no worse for the wear!

Photo | Spiegel

It may still be hot wherever you are, but it’s never too early to get a head start on your fall wardrobe!  One of the coolest things that we found while scouring our database is this fleece cape from Spiegel.  For only $29 (originally $79), you can look chic no matter where you go this fall and winter with this go-everywhere cover-up.

The beauty of a cape is its inherent drama.  While it’s practical as a coat, it adds panache to any outfit, wherever you go: from the office to an evening out to a weekend in jeans and boots.  Long leather gloves create an even more chic look with some retro flair.  This cape also comes in black or scarlet to complement this season’s fabulous palette.

WIN IT!

You can win this cape in camel through August 31, 2011.  Just sign up for our newsletter (on the right) for your chance to win.  One lucky winner will be drawn amongst all newsletter subscribers and notified September 1st via email.  We’d love to hear what you would wear with this cape this fall/winter and where – leave your comments below.  Good luck!!!

Photo: PopSugar.com

by Renae Virata

One of our adorable travelistas recently inquired about what to wear ice skating at Citi Pond in Bryant Park, NYC, this weekend.  And it’s going to be coooold (okay, by my Gulf Coast standards, 30s is fa-reezing!).  So how to look chic when you’re gliding across the ice (and trying not to fall)?

You don’t have to look like Kristi Yamaguchi to look right on skates.  Leggings or jeggings are probably your best bet.   In my experience, wearing jeans is not as comfortable (unless they are in a stretchier knit), especially if you land on your you-know-what a couple of times (it could leave a nice wet spot on your tuckus and take a while to dry).  Besides, you want as much mobility on the ice as possible to show off that killer spin you’ve been working on since you were a kid.

Here are our ideas on what to wear depending on your mood and what you may do before or after you skate.  Notice how unique each look is with just a change of top layers and accessories.

CLICK ON THE PICTURES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AND SHOP EACH OUTFIT.

Just Hanging Out

Impromptu Drinks with the Girls

Date Night

Click to learn more about Inca Boots.

by Renae Virata

If you’re like me, you crave something different ever so often.  This season, I am obsessed with the cute choices of winter shoes and boots that are out right now.  It’s a bummer to live in a place that fluctuates between 45 and 80 degrees on a daily basis or I’d have quite a collection of snow-ready kicks.    But check out how funky and different the ones below are.

This is what struck me about each pair:

• Merrell boot: Not only are they waterproof leather, but they somehow manage to balance a wet-weather / military look while maintaining some sleekness.
• Columbia boot: Is this not adorable?! The unassuming shape, the soft fleece top, and the deliciously milky color make it a treat for your feet.
• Ugg tennis shoes: Okay, wow…fleece-lined tennis shoes?  Only Ugg could think of something this genius.
• Dansko clog: I know, you’re probably thinking, ‘Huh?’  Besides being comfortable, there is a very Scandinavian look that I dig with these clogs.  They actually look retro-chic with a pair of wide-leg jeans and make ribbed tights and a winter mini look grounded.
• Inca Boot: When I first saw these boots, I immediately thought boho chic.  The cool thing is that they are actually handmade in Peru, so not only will they add some panache to your winter wardrobe but they’re authentic, too (and affordable!).
• Born ankle boot: Something about the cute tie in the back, the smooth leather, and the elfin-like shape that caught my eye with these shoes.  A throwback to the 70s-style ankle boot, they’re super comfortable, too.

Merrell $180. Click to learn more.

Columbia $100. Click to learn more

Ugg $90. Click to learn more

Dansko $88. Click to learn more.

Inca Boot Co. $154. Click to learn more.

Born $115. Click to learn more.

Apres ski can be defined two ways, depending on who you’re talking to.  There’s the outfit that you put together right after your last run of the day on the slopes, and there’s the outfit that you wear any other time of the day while on a ski vacation.  Most of the time it’s a blurry line between the two as one of the first things you’ll want to do is chill (excuse the pun) out and enjoy the last rays of sun with a beer or head straight to dinner.  Thankfully, most ski apparel retailers have just the right balance of ski / street wear to make the transition easy.

Nothing looks more chic than winter white.  Just switch out your jacket for this vest and slip on a cute skirt like this one from Athleta.  Dress it up or down and then wear it on the plane for easy cute comfort.

The atmosphere around most ski resorts is pretty casual, so it’s easy to bring your style IQ up a notch, apres ski.

• Start with a versatile ski / snowboarding jacket in a slimming silhouette or one with details like furry trim or a great print over a simple sweater and leggings.
• Slip on a sweet mini over your leggings or tights and top it off with a fun scarf and cable knit sweater.
• Replace your jacket with a snug but chic furry or sweater vest over a turtleneck and knit pants.
• Don’t forget to bring a great pair of sporty sunglasses – it might be winter, but the sun can be super bright against that white snow!

What about the ubiquitous jeans that seem to be so perfect anytime of year in any weather?  Well, if you’ve ever been out and about in cold weather, you know  jeans won’t block out the cold nearly as well as a sturdy knit pant or leggings.  That’s because jeans are typically woven which let’s in more of the cold air.  Jeggings are a great alternative that gives you the best of both worlds.

This Obermeyer jacket goes from the slopes to the street, no problem!  Click on an item to learn more and to shop this outfit.

On to my favorite part – the boots!  Where would we be without our sheepskin boots? So warm, cozy and the perfect complement to pretty much any apres ski outfit.  In multiple colors, fabrics and lengths, you can find one that matches your body and style pretty easily.  Another option are waterproof leather boots. I picked up a  pair of waterproof Merrells last year that absolutely fit the bill to satisfy my city-girl fix – they’re sturdy enough for long walks, keep you dry and are tailored enough to keep you looking put together.

All white and bright...Click to see this popular jacket up close.

by Renae Virata

I love the freedom that winter sports gives you to brave the cold and get active! I remember my first snowboarding trip and how much fun I had picking out the perfect outfit. Being the city girl I am, I had to have the city-slicker tweed print jacket. (This year, I have my eye on Obermeyer’s leopard-print jacket below!).  This year’s trends, especially in jackets, feature a fantastic array of styles and colors that make it hard to choose just one.

Can you believe these are ski pants?! Click to learn more.

You’re gonna sweat, no doubt, so it’s important to keep layers light while maintaining mobility.  The most important thing is to keep the cold, snow, and wind out, so your layers should consist of:

• A base layer – You can find specific base layers in either nylon or wool blends, depending on how much you want to spend.
• A mid layer – I personally love a fleece vest and a slim pair of pants.  Keeps the trunk warm while keeping arms mobile.
• A waterproof shell – Make sure it’s not a soft shell, which is a great post-ski piece but won’t help much when you’re out on the snow.

And don’t forget basic accessories: a simple skull cap or headband that covers your ears, waterproof snow gloves and wool or dry-wick socks.

The most popular colors this season are sporty corals and plum while styles continue to expand in silhouette.  You can go as simple as a slick and sporty one in a fun bright color or add an urban twist with a peacoat-inspired shell.  It’s basically a season to express your personal style or to give yourself as varied an athletic wardrobe as your regular one!

CLICK ON AN ITEM BELOW TO LEARN MORE AND TO SHOP IT!

Street-ready Chic

Obermeyer has some of the best styles for those that want to translate their personal style from the street to the slopes and back again.

The North Face $349

Obermeyer $259.50

Obermeyer $310

Marmot $275

Patagonia $249

The North Face $249

Whimsical

Make a style statement in one of these eye-catching jackets.

Powder Room $169.99

Burton $174.

Nils $307.93

Do you have to spend a lot on your winter sports outfit?  It really depends (I know you hate that answer!).  For jackets, for example, if you have a good waterproof, light winter jacket that is wearable on the street, you can easily add layers inside to increase warmth while you’re skiing or snowboarding.  Some of the best values out there are 3-in-1 jackets that include an insulating jacket, soft shell and waterproof shell – easy to pack and more options on your trip!

Accessories-wise, your base layer doesn’t have to be pure wool…the less expensive nylon version can work just as well (though the cheaper you go, the less able they can stand on their own).  Wool does shrink, too, so if you plan to spend more on pure wool socks, make sure you follow proper instructions on how to wash wool to maintain their size and shape.

Sheepskin boots are more than just warm. Photo: Whooga

by Renae Virata

When the temperatures start to drop, the first thing I reach for are my fuzzy slippers.  Unfortunately, I can’t wear them out in public without getting crazy looks from people. Fortunately, sheepskin boots were invented.  But how do you wear them without looking like an overplayed celebrity?

Start off by purchasing a pair in black.  Paired with black tights or leggings, they elongate the leg and look slightly less casual.  Camel or ivory, however, are classic neutrals that will go with everything.  Camel is the most casual while ivory looks elegant.  Also, look at which length of boot looks best with your body shape and height.  Mid-calf works for everyone, knee-high may work better for taller gals (a good test is if the boot hits an inch or two below the middle of your knee), while ankle boots are a personal preference.

The key to making a sheepskin boot look less clunky is to create balance in your outfit.  Stick to tucking in skinny jeans, tights, or leggings and wearing something more loose or full on top.  Layering is a great way to create multiple sights of interest so that you look put together and purposeful in your boots.  For example, a chic, retro look is the snowbunny of the 70s – snug sweater tunic, thick fur-edged or puffer vest and leggings topped off with a cute hat is the perfect apres ski or casual winter look.  Check out our ideas below for getting more style miles from your sheepskin boots.

Our featured boots are from the UK brand Whooga.  They let us in on the fact that their boots not only come in an array of colors and heights, but they also have the warmest and softest fleece lining inside – you don’t even need socks!  Now until November 8, you can get 10% off any pair of Whooga boots just by entering the special WeareverTheWeather.com code 721WEARE.  Visit www.whooga-eu.co.uk.

Click on an item below to learn more and to shop each look.

Whooga Sheepskin Boots $121

Whooga $98

Whooga $124

Looks like fall is here for many of us and with it comes fall showers.  Before you reach for that tradeshow umbrella, think about spreading a little cheer with a more fashionable choice.  It can make a rainy day just a little brighter for everyone.

Mosaic-Like Tiles $23.99

Music Lovers $34.99

Sunflower $30

Peacock $30

Pansies $30

New York, New York $30

Full Size Green Grass $65

Antique Rose $30

Fun Beach Scene $30