3 Outfit Formulas That Will Carry You Through Any Season

The below is from editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike's weekly newsletter, Self Checkout. Subscribe here.

With close to 20 years in the fashion industry, I’ve not only seen it all—but also know how to parse through the endless sea of stuff. What’s worth buying? What’s not? In Self Checkout, you’ll find my highly specific recommendations with a few picks from my most knowledgeable, stylish friends.

It’s felt like an especially rainy past few months in New York City, but what’s the saying, again? There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing. In this case, “bad clothing” for me means anything that is too precious, complicated, or not at all equipped to handle the elements.

The Three Raincoats I Keep On Repeat…

I’ve come to terms with the fact that I am not a traditional trench coat kind of gal. I used to dream of throwing on the heritage Burberry coat and teaming it with Hunter wellies (which is admittedly a very cute look), but a few years ago I realized an oversize option is actually my speed. There’s room for shirt sandwiching or layering a blazer underneath, if the weather calls for it.

If I’m going into the office… Button Down Shirt + Cropped Trousers + Patent Leather Boots

I wore a version of this outfit just this past week to take a few meetings in the office, record a podcast, have cocktails with a friend, and attend a work dinner. In short, a packed day full of running around in pouring, sideways wind and rain. A cropped pant was the key to this look; it’s insurance that hems stay dry. I layered a white t-shirt under the button-down and finished things off with a silk scarf—but the main ingredients made for an easy, solid work outfit.

If I want to dress up a bit… Sweater + A-line Skirt + Lug Sole Ankle Boots

It rained off and on for the entire seven days I spent at Paris Fashion Week this past February. While I was beyond annoyed, this formula left me at ease (at least with my look), feeling formal enough but not overdressed.

If I’m running errands around the city... Cropped Hoodie + Leggings + Sneakers

As I mentioned last week, your body is your car in New York City, and I hate being bogged down by a large coat when I have to run around town. It’s cumbersome and leads to overheating, which is the absolute worst. This is when light layers and waterproof sneakers come in handy.

First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.