9 Creative Ways to Style Your Winter Sweater

1. Swap cropped coats for long coats.

Because what good does a cropped coat do? They aren't very practical for keeping you comfy and warm, especially if you live somewhere where the temperature dips below freezing on the regular.

Plus, cropped coats often come in overly puffy, chunky styles, so they mess with your proportions, which is not flattering at all.

Instead, opt for an ever-stylish trench coat. They’re all the rage right now, plus they’ll give you that nice ‘quiet luxury’ look. Trench coats are shoppable in all sorts of fabrications, but if warmth and practicality is what you’re looking for, I’d recommend snagging a wool one.

2. Trade faux leather for real leather.

When it comes to fashion trends, investment pieces stand the test of time – which is why you shouldn’t be shopping any faux leather winter coats. Not only do they have the possibility of looking cheap-y, they might not last you as long as a real leather coat would.

Look for a real leather coat in a timeless color you know you’re going to wear again and again, like a deep brown or plain black. These neutral colors make ‘em easy to style with everything else you've got going on in your closet, plus a 100% real leather will easily stand up to any weathering as you don it throughout the years.

3. Toss any army jackets (especially camo) for leopard print coats.

Army jackets feel so 2014 – and remember when camo was all the rage? Well, it’s not so much anymore. Army jackets and camo feel so 2014 for a reason, and that’s because much trendier (and much more flattering) coats have taken center stage.

This season, try switching out your outdated army jacket for a different pattern, like leopard. Contrary to popular belief, you can wear leopard and not look too over-the-top. A basic leopard print coat (I love the fuzzy-looking ones) is an easy statement piece to throw over all-black outfits. We’ve matured past camo – try something new this time around!

4. Trade bomber jackets for barn jackets.

Bomber jackets are another ‘so 2014’ pick in my opinion. While they can work well in some instances, I don’t think they are very flattering. They typically come with elastic waistbands and wristbands, which can constrict your figure and movements in a way that just doesn’t feel good.

Loosen up a bit instead with barn jackets, AKA chore coats. They boast a roomier silhouette, plus everyone seems to be donning them right now. They add a subtle utilitarian look to any outfit, all while letting you layer up underneath with your favorite sweaters and long sleeve tees.

5. Ditch dramatic furs for more stylish shearling coats.

While I do love a bit of drama, dramatic furs are just way too extra. They can distract from your look easily and drown out your figure instead of flattering it.

I suggest toning down this “outdated” winter coat style by wearing some stylish shearling instead. Shearling will keep you just as warm, but it looks a pinch more polished. You can shop shearling coats in many colors or snag one that has mixed materials for added visual interest.

Leather pants will always make a statement, no matter where you wear 'em.

If you want to be The Moment at this year's NYE party, don't be afraid to have fun with your outfit! This iconic sequined dress and hot pink gloves combo def catches our eye.

Sequins galore! Pop on a matching set with your favorite boots and a chain belt to easily accessorize.

Save this outfit formula – sequin mini dress, tights, and a blazer – for an easy NYE outfit. You could easily shop your 'fit from thrift stores or secondhand shops if you're putting together a look at the last minute.

This little tweed matching set is giving all the luxe looks you need for an elegant NYE get-together.

If a big blowout NYE party is calling your name, you might want to dress a little lighter. Big parties can get crowded and rowdy, so be prepared to sweat it out in a mini dress and practical, dance-friendly boots.

The texture on this dress is everything. If you want your New Year's Eve outfit to stand out, opt for a piece with an interesting texture, pattern, or eye-catching color!

There's nothing a little black dress can't do! Break up the piece a bit by styling your go-to LBD with a colorful belt around the waist. We also adore the statement earrings in this gorgeous gal's ensemble!

Speaking of interesting patterns, leopard and cheetah prints are hot right now. Whether you don it on a top, pants, skirt, dress, or accessories, you'll be looking so chic.

Okay, fur coat! This layered outfit idea is fully convincing us to make a beeline to the thrift and find the fluffiest jacket around. Pair one with a basic black dress and tights, and you're golden.

We're head over heels with this frilly, fringey look. The sheer fabrics add a hint of flirtiness, which is all you need for a fun NYE function!

Leather jackets were practically made for New Year's Eve outfits. We adore the trench-length of this one, especially when worn with a maxi dress that's just as long.

Another pop of cheetah print! This NYE outfit idea has it all, from playful prints to shiny sequins.

This 'fit would be excellent for an at-home NYE celebration, where you want to look cute, but don't want to feel uncomfortable. Mini dress + cardigan + socks + ballet flats have never been so adorable!

You can never go wrong with a fun pair of tights!

The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight

Penn should be excited about advancing her education at the University of Edinburgh, but she can't stop thinking about the secret her parents have been keeping from her. For some reason, she believes she'll uncover it while she's in Scotland because Lord Lennox — her father's friend — is in the area.

Her hunger for the truth leads her to Lord Lennox's estate where she she starts mingling with his family and even discovers love in this moving novel.

Jenna Bush Hager's Thoughts About The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus