Winter can mean long days of gray skies and bitter winds, but it doesn't have to mean bulky, unattractive clothing! Many women dread the onset of winter, as it means a retreat into thick, figure-erasing tops and thick pants, but don't worry. For plus sized women, the challenges can be even harder as so many of the clothes that are meant for us are already bulky and less than attractive. There are plenty of ways to still look snappy and stylish no matter what the wind's like outside, though, and all you have to do is know what you are looking for.

Dressing properly for the weather will help you to stay warm as you go about your activities of daily life in chilly weather. You can even do so with style and functionality. Wearing layers next to your skin helps insulate your body heat, and wearing outer garments with zippers can add greater thermoregulation flexibility and control. One stylish and practical implementation involves wearing thin stretchy layers topped with a zippered sweatshirt that you can unzip or taken off when you get warm inside. This is also a versatile look that wears well inside the house or travel about town for Christmas shopping.

One thing that you can do if you're looking for a bit of style is try a pair of thick opaque tights paired with a skirt. Depending on how thick your tights are and how bad the weather is outside, think about a shorter skirt paired with thick tights. Black tights are a great way to show off your legs and emphasize your curves, and with the addition of weatherproof, sturdy leather boots, you're all set for the snow storms. You can also wear thick tights under trousers or jeans to get some more warmth. If you have thin slacks that look great and you don't want to put them away for the season, consider pairing them with some tights to make them winter-ready.

Plus sized women might want to avoid coats that only come down to the waist. For a wonderfully sophisticated fashion statement, think about a thigh-length peacoat. This is a great style and quite warm; you can go with a basic black wool, or try for something a little more extravagant. Remember to suit your own tastes; if you feel good in it, chances are, you look good as well! For a more sweeping style, think about getting a long wool coat, one that goes down to your ankles. Once again, check the cut. Is there a little bit of flare at the bottom of the coat? Does it fit well without wrinkling? While it is very easy to get a coat that is a bit boxy in this regard, remember to look for one that has a good drape on you; essentially find one that isn't cut to look like a tube!

During the Winter you should be more concerned about icy roads and being snowed in than what you are wearing. With a little preparation you can be well prepared for the winter months to come.