Upstyling my Uggs

As most of you probably heard, New York was besieged by an insane snowstorm a few weeks ago. I would have been a miserable warm-blooded Filipina if I wasn't outfitted in my just-purchased fur-lined Uggs, especially made to trek through snow, slush and those pesky corner puddles. I never ever thought I would actually purchase Uggs (I'm really not a big fan of their original design), but Mariel swore by the comfort and warmth of her pair (she has nice suede buckled ones that are quite styling). I had to get myself a proper pair of snow boots since I had been working at an open park and my toes were going completely numb from the cold.

This was the pair I really wanted but the footbed wasn't lined and I was afraid it wouldn't be warm enough. Uggs Belcloud boot at zappos.com, $225

After much researching, I settled on this brown lace up pair. Now, it wasn't love at first sight—I thought they looked too clunky plus they were pricey, but my Canadian bf (a certified snow trooper!) gave the thumbs up (as well as a group of strangers trying out shoes beside me), and they were definitely the warmest among my options. When I first wore them, I found them too heavy, and a strain on my leg muscles but boy oh boy did they keep my feet toasty. And after I tramped them through thirteen inches of snow, I was happy I made the investment. 

Uggs Adirondack tall boot, $250, at zappos.com. They must be quite popular because they're sold out at the Ugg website!

 

My only problem is that they're not exactly very stylish. I almost always end up wearing them with a chunky sweater and leggings, not exactly the most imaginative outfit. But yesterday, I made the effort to dress them up, seeing as I would be wearing them in the Refinery29 office.

Gold sweater, Topshop (bought on sale for Php500 I think); denim vest, 99c City, $0.99; jeans, Jag (free!); Beaded bib, Zara, on sale for $25.99; multi-layered crystal and cloth braid necklace, Aldo, $19.98 on a two for one sale.

I love how the green of the Aldo necklace contrasts with the beads on the bib.

I'm still wearing a sweater but I gave my outfit a spin by adding a cropped denim vest, and layering my recent fab jewelry buys. What do you think?

Not quite sure what my next outfit would be but do tell me your ideas! I would love to hear your sartorial suggestions for dressing up my Uggs!