Are you from somewhere fashionable like Los Angeles, Miami or Milan? If that's the case, you probably know more than your share about outfits appropriate to warm weather, including breathable dresses, madras shorts and $5,000 flip-flops. But dressing for Waltham includes such clothes for about three days a year, and, as any good Bay Stater (or Wisconsinite like me) knows, it's only fun to wear your summer attire in the snow if you're in a polar bear club, and even then it's questionable.So what's the key to staying warm and not looking like a marshmallow, or worse, a collection of old rags piled together randomly? As with everything, remember that dressing well requires some kind of personality and creativity. Unless you are a total slob, you're going to need to make some choices for yourself regarding what you wear each morning.

The first rule of layering is there are no rules. Is there any reason you can't wear a button-down under a polo shirt? What about a vest inside a blazer? How about outside one? What about a nice fur-lined jacket with no shirt underneath? -I admit that last one doesn't exactly count as layering, but it's sexy nonetheless. The point is: Mix and match any options you like, but remember that clothes are emotional, and not to leave home unless you feel comfortable and confident.

The second rule of layering is there may be some rules, though few. First of all, the materials I wrote about last spring because they are breathable are not good for the winter, since they don't insulate heat. So what kinds are good? Let's look at this layer by layer.

The first layer should fit close to your body to avoid looking baggy or like you've gained 25 pounds overnight. I would recommend long underwear or other garments made out of polyester or polypropylene.

Denim, corduroy and flannel are very appropriate for your second layers (the ones people will see when you take your jacket off). These materials are fuzzy and warm, plus they are more normal-looking than long underwear.

The third layer should be a jacket, coat or fleece, depending on the weather. For milder winter conditions, try a basic nylon jacket; it's much more waterproof than wool or cotton in case of random precipitation. If it's really nasty outside, or below zero, try finding a jacket with thinsulate as either a primary or secondary material.

In addition to basic layering, I think everyone should have a cashmere scarf and know how to wrap it properly. The once-around and slipknot are the warmest because they get closest to your neck. I prefer waterproof boots to sheepskin Uggs because they are more effective against snow and rain, and I prefer mittens to gloves because they are simply cuter.

Just remember a few of the specifics and use your instincts and sense to dress warmly for cold weather. If you're going skiing and need help, browse the Internet, or ask someone at the North Face, which should be helpful. But the most important lesson to remember in choosing winter clothing is that unless your personality shines through, you might as well stay inside, where you'll be plenty warm and just as boring.