Cheryl Shops

There are people who complain about the weather in San Francisco being always the same, and to those people, I say, take a look outside right now because it is pouring rain. The slightly weird thing about this is that it only rains in winter here—it's like northern California's version of snow—and yet people totally freak out about it. After four years here, I've come to somewhat loathe this time of year, as necessary as it is, because it's hard to look chic when you're loaded up with practical waterproof gear. But it's a small price to pay for the beautiful weather we have the rest of the year. And I've developed a formula that makes dressing for winter weather a bit easier.





It all starts with a trench coat, which is pretty much the perfect San Francisco coat. Mine was a Christmas gift (thanks, Mom and Dad!), and it's from Everlane, which is fitting, because they're a San Francisco brand, so clearly they know what we need to survive the elements. This coat is water-resistant but totally polished and chic, and I love how unexpected the navy color is. (For the traditionalists, it also comes in khaki.) For size reference, I'm wearing a small.


Speaking of unexpected, pink and navy is one of my favorite color combinations ever. A bright pop of color is pretty much a necessity on a dreary day, and this pink sweater makes me happier just looking at it. It does get chilly when it rains here, so I pretty much live in sweaters until the rain stops; this one is warm but thin, so you can easily layer it.


I tend to wear jeans way more in the winter, and this is the time when I stick to a slimmer leg with stretch; if it gets wet, a lighter denim dries much faster than a thicker one. This pair by Frame (last seen here) is one of my favorites—the cut is not too skinny and the stepped hem works well with all types of boots and shoes.


It's probably not logical to wear a navy bag with a navy coat, but then I'm not always one for logic. This crossbody bag (last seen here), however, has a faux-snakeskin texture, which helps it stand out a bit. This bag is also so lightweight and easy, it's a favorite for when I'm out and about.



I have been on a totally minimal kick with my jewelry lately. Of course, I still wear a bunch of it—I'm all about the multiples—but this season it's all about delicates.


Obviously these photos were taken when it wasn't raining; I wouldn't be wearing leather booties if it were. But I do live in boots this time of year, especially this pair (last seen here). Fun fact: I ended up walking the Land's End trail in these before we did this shoot. They were not quite as comfortable (or practical) as sneakers, but they made it!



OUTFIT DETAILS: Everlane drape trench coat || H&M sweater || Frame le high straight jeans || Gigi New York Carli bag || Rag & Bone Harrow boots || Etsy X ring, diamond ring