There's nothing that says the holidays quite like some flannel! I have never been one to dip my toes into heavier patterns and shirting but sometimes your environment quickly influences your style and evolves the way you think about certain trends. It's always nice when you can persuade yourself to step outside of your comfort zone and try something completely different... sometimes, just sometimes, you are happily surprised! Go for a slimmer flannel like this great one from J. Crew to get a more modern look. Lose the lightweight plaids for now - it's way too damn cold outside to be sporting the lightweight shirting no matter how you style it! Take a chance on some flannels and, trust me, you'll be hooked!

I went full force and full on Brawny Towels Man with this look - boots and all. These sick Red Wing Boots  are definitely going to be winter staples in my wardrobe this year. As heavy as they are, they are actually really comfortable and definitely warm. Speaking of staples in my wardrobe, I can't get enough of this L.L. Bean Signature Waxed Canvas Tote that I got from the brand over the summer. I use this guy for everything from trekks to the gym to weekend trips out of the city. This will definitely be in tote as I leave NYC en route to Dallas, Texas [my hometown] to visit my family and friends for the holidays. And of course, I won't be forgetting my Urbanear Humlan Headphones [which are actually machine washable!] that won't only be keeping my ears warm but will be blasting my favorite tunes to drown out the noise of my inflight company. 

wearing: J. Crew Flannel Oxford | J. Crew 484 Denim | Red Wing Boots | L.L. Bean Signature Waxed-Canvas Tote | Urbanears Humlan Headphones | Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Cuff