Winter may be slated to be milder for most parts of the country. That doesn't mean that cold weather fashion is suddenly optional. Wearing an outfit that could end up leaving you shaking like a leaf is embarrassing.

Overdressing can also be a problem--you end up looking like a conservative fashion disaster. But, don't worry, fellas, we are here to help. This short men's winter style guide will provide everything you know to make it through this season.

Layers Are Everything

You can get away with having a limited wardrobe if you know how to layer. Layering in the winter is the only time when you can undress in public and not get dirty looks. How you layer makes the difference, though.

If you do it wrong, layering can make you look like a stiff, top-heavy snowman. If you do it right, layering can keep you warm and grab attention (in a good way). Just start simple, use thin shirts as your base--use a neutral or a bright accent piece to contrast your top layers.

You can break out the denim while layering, just make it your inside layer. The same goes for cardigans, turtleneck sweaters, and thick sweatshirts. If you really want to impress others with your layering skills, shop for a nice vest.

Vests are strong cold weather fashion pieces that add a nice layer of warmth, but won't cause you to overheat when you're indoors for a long time.

Watch the Materials

Winter fashion deals a lot with textures and materials. Sometimes these two traits can seem like they're at odds. Thick, insulating materials can have poor texture quality if left on their own. Accessories and layering help a lot with getting to wear winterized clothes without looking like a stuffed animal.

For example, layer your wooly sweaters with more chic fabrics on the outside. Or, wear silky, velour inside with a rougher, neutral heavy overcoat on the outside. Don't forget to plan for wet, cold weather, by the way.

For those who don't want to do a lot of compromising, consider water-proof sprays to retain those textures without being a sponge for hypothermia. You can waterproof your jacket for the season and it will last until warmer weather arrives.

Buy Bolder Coats

Winter coats are primarily chosen to beat the cold and the manufacturers really don't much thought into style. Look for bright, bold winter coats that look more like oversized summer wear. Go for that bright pink, seafoam green, or tangerine overcoat.

Watch how much this makes a difference with your wardrobe. You'll create more outfits by not being stuck with those browns, grays, and blacks on the outside. Ideally, you'll want to have two nice heavy coats, one bright-colored and another neutral.

Puffy Coats

If you want to cover both bases here, try searching for puffy coats for those bold colors. You'll get a greater selection of colors and you will be adding another big texture to your wardrobe. Puffer coats can vary in style, too.

Some puffy coats are slim and streamlined, others are big and round. Both can work, depending on your body type, just avoid looking like the kid who ate the forbidden candy on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Sweater Weather

Every man should have at least one turtleneck sweater. One, these sweaters are comfortable and protect your neck without a scarf. Two, turtlenecks are great for layering and adding a peek of color outside the coat.

As for standard sweaters, you should think about expanding your selection of scarves and high-collar shirts. This can be a great opportunity to mix professional and casual looks. Pair it up with a trench coat or other oversized coat.

Don't be afraid to use a fuzzy, bright-colored scarf. If you're going to do browns and grays, then make sure your coat is bringing in the color contrast. Prints do well with scarves and sweaters, so grab them when you see them.

Boots and Shoes

Being caught outside in freezing temperatures with shoes that aren't water-proof can be a bad time. You'll need to invest in boots as your primary shoe in the winter if you experience a lot of rain, sleet, hail, or snow. You can find some robust shoes that are waterproof, however, they may not be very insulating.

The long-john and multi-layer sock combo is one way to solve that problem. Don't worry, the ladies will understand your struggle as you're peeling off three pairs of socks to watch Netflix and chill.

Comfort Wear and Indoor Styles

A lot of us won't even be spending a lot of time out in the dead of winter. Most people are inside spaces that have some form of heater, whether that's a car, a bus, stores, or at home. In this case, consider shopping for casual wear that has enough protection and insulation to keep you warm for a few minutes at a time.

Cotton, fleece, and wind-breaker gear are great examples of a functional style. That iconic image of middle-aged men doing their morning run in a sleek tracksuit is a look that will never go out of style. In fact, we encourage you to take up jogging in the cold to show off your style and improve your health.

Shopping for Cold Weather Fashion

If you follow these guidelines of cold weather fashion, you can't mess it up. Let's face it, guys have an easier time making winter gear look good. Jeans and a leather jacket isn't very inspiring, but it still works and is attractive to most women.

Make sure you pay attention to sizing when shopping for winter clothes and outerwear. This makes it easier to find deals online and purchase with confidence. If you're interested in browsing winter wear early this year, take a look at our outerwear clearance section.

There's no better time to get those layers now while supplies last. Before you know, winter will be in full effect and a new line of clothing will be out.