Blanketed in Style

We begin our lives clinging to comfort, whether in the form of a favorite blanket or a teddy bear. But at some point, we’re told we’re too old to don the blanket cape or tote the teddy. Enter the fuzzy sweater and the teddy bear coat.

The Danish have a word for it — hygge — a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that causes a feeling of contentment or well-being.

During the winter months, when many of us would rather spend our days cuddled in a blanket versus going about our daily tasks, we can seek hygge in wardrobe form.

“When the weather gets cooler, the last thing one wants to do is get out of comfort,” said Sarah Villella, manager and buyer of Narcissus. “Teddy bear jackets, eyelash knit sweaters, thick chenille cardigans and faux fur jackets make you feel all snuggled up, but you still look cute enough to go out.”

In many ways, we are becoming like the animals these fabrics emulate, putting on our thicker hides and winter coats of faux fur, wool, shearling, fleece and mohair.

Pair a puffy faux fur bomber jacket with athleisure wear, or style it up with a knit dress and knee-high boots. Cozy up beside a bonfire in a fleece pullover and jeans, or wear a shaggy wool or mohair coat for that fresh, off-the-runway look.

“Styling all things fuzzy is fun. We suggest contrasting textures like faux leather or a sequin skirt,” said Villella.

This “fur-effect” bomber jacket from Mango features a ribbed hem for a synched look. Photo courtesy of Mango

For those seeking something more casual, Villella suggests pairing fur with a quality pair of jeans. Or, you can go with the monochromatic look — a tan fur coat paired with varying shades of brown.

“If you wear a fuzzy hat, jacket or sweater, then the rest of your outfit should be sleek and understated, not as big as your fuzzy piece,” suggests Elizabeth Kienzle, owner of Monkee’s of Tallahassee.

Kienzle is seeing a lot of fuzzy coats in bold colors in store, which make for the perfect statement piece in a winter outfit.

But if full fur is intimidating, opt for pieces with fur accents, such as a trench coat with fur-capped sleeves or a blazer with a fur collar.

Fuzz doesn’t stop at the outermost layer. Fuzzy accessories, especially handbags and shoes, are fun ways to embrace the trend.

A fuzzy purse in a bold hue adds a spark to a little black dress or a monochromatic outfit. Fuzzy sneakers and fur-lined boots keep your feet warm and give street credibility in the vogue department. The ultimate cozy shoe (besides the fuzzy house slipper) is the Ugg — one of many trends from the early aughts that’s back on shelves in full force.

Give a warm embrace to fuzzy-filled fashion while you can — Florida’s hot and humid weather makes it hard to enjoy this trend for long.