LUXE LAYERS Stay warm — and chic — in the season’s cosiest layers because baby, it’s cold outside C. Luce coat, Ya Los Angeles; vest and Koret handbag, Stephanie Horne, Milwaukee DeLux hat, Carolina Amato gloves, David Aubrey necklace, earrings and bracelets, Lela, Milwaukee Fashion Editor/Stylist:Jordan Dechambre Photographer:Dan Bishop Hair and makeup:Stephanie and Elysefor Neroli Salon & Spa,Milwaukee (Third Wardand East Side), BayshoreTown Center and Brookfield Model: Elyse

I’ve been struggling with looking good during the Wisconsin winter since I was a mini fashionista.

Halfway to school, I would strip off my winter coat, hat and gloves, and freeze my way into the cold brick building.

A hat? Are you kidding? After I spent all that time teasing my hair?

Luckily, in 2013 we have an amazing selection of warm and fabulous winter wardrobe essentials to keep out the chill while remaining fashionably cool. And it all starts with the perfect winter coat.

For my seasonal mix, I rotate three cold-weather styles: a gray herringbone wool cape for "warmer" days (i.e., more than 40 degrees), a military-inspired black wool coat with leather accents for day-to-night versatility; and a long, belted puffer for below-zero wind chills. Of course, a wide selection of various scarves, hats and gloves help create a new, personalized look for every day.

No matter your coat arsenal, here are some of my favorite options for on-trend seasonal style.

BOLD PRINTS There is no shortage of print interest this season, with everything from traditional plaids and stripes to unexpected Aztec, florals, paisley, graphics, animal prints, colored tweeds popping up at retailers around the world. The key to making this bold trend work? Moderation. If your outerwear is making the statement, your clothing and accessories should provide a neutral base to avoid becoming fashion roadkill.

CHIC ACCENTS Leather trim is the look of the season. Be it piping; a collar, shoulder or cuff detail; or even lapels, the look is fabulous and fierce. Or, pair a leather belt with your coat for a removable option. To bling up a classic coat, add a fur scarf, studded gloves, a colorful wool hat or bold boots to amp up your look (just not all at once).

MENSWEAR INFLUENCES In addition to a host of traditional menswear prints — herringbone, houndstooth, Glen plaid and stripes — boxy "boyfriend" cuts for women’s coats are a fashion-forward trend for 2013. The bonus? The extra room allows for lots of layers!

MODERN MILITARY "In the Navy" peacoats are a timeless winter coat staple. For a 2013 update, try the look in a vivid color, like true red, and look for tailored cuts, unexpected prints, asymmetrical zippers, and fur and sweater accents.

COLOR BLOCKING Whether it’s basic color blocking — or strategically placed colors to highlight your form (my personal fave) — designers are adding a double-punch of color this season. If you’re not ready to jump into a bold block style, dip you toe in the color pool with a contrast hue interior.

COLLAR INTEREST A fashionable collar is an easy way to add panache to a basic coat. Oversize collars make a chic statement, while fur, ruching, shawl styles, contrast colors and ruffles prove style is all in the accents. To create a "faux" collar on your fave coat, simply add a rotation of infinity scarves for a new, interchangeable look each day.

POSH PUFFER These aren’t your grandma’s puffy coats. For the ultimate in warmth — and a sporty chic vibe — invest in a well-made, long puffer coat that will take you through several winters. For the most flattering cut, look for tailored, belted varieties with a slimming stitch pattern. If you’re tired of basic black, opt for luxe colors like icy gray, burgundy, Army green and shiny metallics (stay away from lighter tones to keep your jacket looking clean and fresh all season long).

FOR THE BOYS This season, the best men’s coats are a tribute to the classics. Timeless peacoats, military influences, traditional prints and top-coat styles pay homage to the past, while sleek, modern tailoring gives a nod to the now.