It may come as a shock to many of you…but Mer-Sea is actually headquartered about 1,500 miles from the nearest ocean in a suburb of Kansas City, MO. I recently wrote how I found my way from California to the Midwest. The answer is love, and it is a good thing that I still love him, because the weather in the Midwest is, well, challenging to say the least.
The view outside my front door on the most recent snow day
This month, for example, has seen temperatures ranging from -5 ° to 55 °. The kids have had 4 snow days, but they are still breaking out their shorts in between storms.
February in the Midwest is one of the hardest months for dressing. Retailers are replacing their winter leftovers with new spring collections while we, Midwesterners, are still experiencing blizzards. We struggle with what to wear on days like these when it feels like you could wear shorts one minute, and your down jacket the next.
I’ve laid out some of our go-to’s for this time of year to get you through...
1) Chelsea Kimono
One way I’ve been able to cope with Mother Nature’s moodiness is with the help of this lightweight sweater, perfect for layering and completely functional. Our newest sweater is a great piece to bring along on any excursion, no matter if you’re officially traveling or not. It can serve as an extra little something to keep you warm once the sun goes down in the spring or summer, or be the foundation of your outfit during winter months.
Chelsea Kimono in Dune
2) Statement Jackets
I have to admit, I’m a sucker for shoes, purses and jackets. I think it is really because I hate trying on clothes – the thought of stripping down and seeing myself in an unforgiving full-length mirror is less than appealing. I prefer to be in denial about my cellulite, thank you very much.
I don’t know how many blazers and jackets one should deem as enough, but I’m not there yet. Pair them with a colorful scarf, and, voila! Style and warmth.
Currently in my closet that I love: ASOS teddy bear coat, Rebecca Taylor blazer and Rag and Bone orange blazer. I love orange - something you should know about me.
3) Felt Hats
Who else likes to hide their messy hair while keeping warm? This material is a must-have for winter and is perfect during the ever-changing spring-time temperatures. The other nice thing about floppy felt is that it is flexible and easy to pack on trips. I love my straw hats, but can someone invent one that can be folded (note to self: product development idea)
If you have a 13 year-old daughter like me, you frequent Urban Outfitters, and try your best to find things for yourself that won't embarrass her.
4) Travel Wraps
I know that you already know this, but our wraps are meant for much more than travel. All of our styles are a chic way to brighten up your look when it’s too still chilly outside. Our Classic Travel Wrap never disappoints (Sea Salt is my go-to color) and our Reversible Wraps will keep you cozy (check out the new spring colors – I’m obsessed with SKY!)
5) Cut-out shoes
I told you that I love shoes, despite the fact that my size 10 foot is less than elegant in some styles. InStyle says showing a little skin is an easy way to retire your clunky boots and save your sandals. Think mules and booties, or strappy heels with a bit more coverage. Here are some examples.
I am losing my mind over the cut-out camo oxfords, but, alas, they are sold out of my big foot size. All of these are from Anthropologie.
6) BONUS TIP! Take a trip to somewhere warmer
Personally, I think this is the best solution. Pack your bag with flip flops, shorts, a beach wrap and head South ☀️🏖
With a few minor touches, any outfit can be easily tailored to fit into this weird season we like to call “sprinter.” Winter was great while it lasted, but we hope you are as excited as we are to get this show on the road and bring on the heat!
XOXO Lina