The Seven Layers That Equal One Winter Puffer

5:00 PM, December 12 2012

By Alison Syrett Cleary

The myth of the non-puffy puffer coat is something I refuse to perpetuate this winter. I mean, c'mon, it's right there in the name: Puffer. Coat. However, even if you've stumbled across my humble story in search of non-bulky outerwear, don't close this window just yet—there is another way to achieve down jacket warmness without sacrificing your shape. All you need is seven key items and a light lesson in layering—click through the slideshow below for both right now.

Look for flesh colored wool, silk and cashmere in finely gauged knit. It'll cost way more than your average Hanes' three pack, but is so worth it—you'll be about a million times toastier with no extra bulk.

The tunic length is key because you want it to peek beneath other layers. Bonus points for a cute print!

But not too light, either! Just avoid chunky texture, like pom-poms or cabling, and you'll be safe from weird scrunchiness later on. Also: stay far away from cotton and linen—there's a reason people wear those in the summer.

If Mr. Rogers would wear it, you're golden.

I'm totally team anorak: It's loose enough to to accommodate all those extra layers yet remarkably streamlined.

Sleeveless fur has all the snugglyness of a full coat but provides a much better shape. (Plus you won't have to worry about your arm hairs getting caught in the elevator. The worst!)

Finish your look with a big chunky something that complements layer number three's color scheme. It's a tiny touch, but really pulls the whole look together.

More on Luckymag.com: