There’s nothing more challenging on a 20-degree day than trying to put together a stylish outfit. Ahead, are 10 outfit ideas for when you don’t know what to wear on 20-degree days. Stay warm out there.

Brr, it's cold out here.

There’s nothing more challenging on a 20-degree day than trying to put together a stylish outfit. We’ve all been there, putting on layer over layer only to end up uncomfortable and drab, wishing for warmer days that allow for more streamlined outfits. Or at least, fewer layers.

So, what’s the solution? Simply managing expectations. The reality is that wintertime is a season when practicality takes over style; it’s more important to be warm than fashionable, and that often means sacrificing sartorial prowess for more functional styles. It’s also all about choosing the right outerwear to make the centerpiece of your outfit, adding pops of color, playing with accessories, and balancing textures when necessary.

Ahead, are 10 outfit ideas for when you don’t know what to wear on 20-degree days. Stay warm out there.

Monochromatic and Plush

On frigid days, there's no better feeling than wrapping yourself in a plushy coat. Sure, it may make you look like a plush toy, but there are ways to style it that guarantee a more elevated outfit. Keeping the look monochromatic is one way to go about it. Let the coat dictate the colors in the rest of your outfit, adding a pair of boots and a handbag in the same tonal family. Whatever you got underneath, just make sure it's warm and cozy.

Just Puffer It

If it’s too cold, no one will blame you for forgoing style for just pure practicality. Yet, even going for the traditional puffer coat can come with added style value. A long extra-puffy nylon coat, for example, has an extra edge that can stand on its own, allowing you to play with accessories. A pair of chunky black boots and futuristic shades is just what a puffer coat like this one needs.

Double-Breasted with Flare

When the temperature drops, it's easy to think that the only way to create an outfit is through your coat. But this look serves as evidence of the opposite. A double-breasted oversized maxi coat can have a flirty touch by just letting a bit of fringe (either from a skirt or a dress) show underneath. Depending on your cold tolerance levels, add a pair of pumps or pointed-toe boots.

Dramatic Yet Casual

The usual turtleneck and jeans combo is one most people go for when the weather turns chilly. Not to mention the obligatory floor-length black coat. One way to add a nice twist to this uniform-like combo is by wearing opera-length leather gloves. The texture play adds more dimension, while the elevated, nighttime feel of the gloves is will bring the extraordinary out of your outfit.

Daytime Party

The fall/winter 2024 runways were full of embellished coats, transforming the otherwise functional and basic staple into a party-ready item. Whether it’s sequins or brooch-like embellishments, the key here is to let the coat do its thing by pairing it with pieces that serve as a blank canvas. A white button-down shirt, for example, and matching loafers pair down the coat’s more vivacious look.

Texture Play

The layering game can be a mean one. Add on too many layers of the same colors and textures and your outfit won't work. This is why balancing textures and tones is key on 20-degree days. The burnt orange color of the above coat, for example, works well against a blank canvas of a white turtleneck and buttoned vest. Meanwhile, the cozy elements are tied together via a fuzzy hat and tweed handbag.

Lean Into Denim

Few fabrics will work as well in the winter as denim. Practical, utilitarian, and warm, denim is a material you can rely on to look presentable on those 20-degree days. Going for a denim jumpsuit, for example, allows you to add as many layers as you need underneath without sacrificing style.

Take On Plaid

A cozy plaid print is exactly the type of craving that should be satisfied on a 20-degree day. And the best way to do so is by going for a matching coat and pants set. Go for oversized silhouettes that can build on the snug feel of the outfit, adding more structured accessories (like aviator sunglasses and chunky white boots).

Pretty in Pink

Not everyone moved on from Barbiecore pink. And the bubbly shade is exactly the bright dose of color needed to boost your mood on a frigid day. Take a cue from the outfit above, wearing a shearling leather jacket in a bold shade of pink, paired with leather shorts, tights, and lace-up booties.

Neutral Chic

If you find yourself relying on neutral colors for winter days, why change the script? Still, a little twist can offer more than just a head-to-toe black outfit. A leather coat, for example, is olive green or wine red—two of the trendiest colors of 2024—and can elevate an otherwise basic outfit. Just drape it over a black turtleneck for a done-and-gone outfit.