Fashion in freezing temps

When I moved to North Dakota to start a new job in July, the business casual rule at work was easy to abide by -- it was skirts and sundresses every day. These days, however, the temperatures don't get out of the teens, and all I want to wear are oversized sweaters and skinny jeans tucked into warm boots.

Seeing as that's not allowed, I've been working on outfits that are weather appropriate, work appropriate, budget appropriate, and personal style appropriate. This is one of my more successful attempts.

I got that polka dot button-up from a thrift store on a day that all women's tops were on sale for a dollar -- score. 

The maroon vest (it looks red here, but it's darker in person) was also a thrift store find for $2. I had been seeing so many puffy vest looks on Pinterest that I had to find a vest and create my own outfit. Plus, living in such a cold place, I figured it would be a versatile piece.

The slacks were on sale for about $8 at Target. They're a slim fit ankle crop, but I transitioned them to winter by tucking them into warm socks and boots.

And the boots! The boots were a tricky find. My last black boots I got at Gordman's on Black Friday for $12. They obviously weren't high quality, but they were cute and comfy and lasted through a winter. This year, I couldn't find boots anywhere near as a cute or affordable. I finally stumbled upon these at Payless -- they were originally $70, but I got them on sale for $40. Seemed like a good deal for something I'd be wearing all season (and winter is a long season in North Dakota).

I accessorized with a chunky necklace and a skinny black belt, and voila! An outfit that fit all my requirements -- warm, business casual, reasonably priced, and cute.