"What's very important is monochromatic layering-coordinating scarf, turtleneck, cardigan and skirt or pants," says Mary Anne Cook-Terrasse, fashion spokeswoman for Chicago's Lord & Taylor store. "It takes you to the office, and when you get there all you have to do is take off the cardigan and scarf. These fabrics are very luxurious-cashmere, wool blends and wool." Soft, understated neutrals are the colors of choice, she adds.

Ankle boots coordinate well with long skirts, offering visual weight to balance the length of the skirt. "We're seeing wonderful rugged lace-up boots . . . that not only go with jeans but also with the new long skirts or with trousers," Gentry says. When boots are teamed with opaque tights or thick socks (cotton or wool are warmest) they're a combination to counter any chill. Knee-high boots in crayon brights can also add a cozy and practical accent to your attire.

Adrienne Vittadini Collection lambswool cardigan, $250, lambswool turtleneck, $105, and lambswool wrap skirt, $190, taupe Sesto Meucci suede pumps, $140, DKNY opaque tights, $8.50, all from Lord & Taylor. Sporto Thermolite water-proof boots, $39.98, animal print hat, $48, animal print leather gloves, $148, and berets, $12 each, all from Bloomingdale's. Red military-inspired down anorak, $110, and chamois gloves with fleece lining, $78, from Nordstrom. Red Cougar short patent leather boots, $39.99, from Marshall Field & Co. Red English wool wrap, $78, and red leather belt, $38, from Ann Taylor. Prolite glove liners, in navy or purple, $7, and Puddle Runners neoprene booties, $17.95, all from Early Winters catalog, P.O. Box 4333, Portland, Ore., 97208-4333, 800-458-4438.