What’s Your Favorite Winter Accessory?
This morning, a small rodent with the power to dramatically impact my wellbeing predicted another six weeks of winter. I have to admit, I’m getting tired of the cold. I love a dramatic snow, but I hate 4 p.m. sunsets, perilously icy sidewalks, and freezing feet. In case you’re worn out, too, I asked five fashion experts what gets them through the season…
“I made this hood/scarf combo last year. Developing the sewing pattern, I was inspired by a combination of Copenhagen-style hoods and long scarves. In Canada, where winter dressing is often very functional, it’s nice to have a piece that’s a bit interesting. Plus, it’s warm and doesn’t give you hat head.” — Leila Kelleher, pattern designer and professor, Toronto
“I was born in February in the Midwest, and winter is my favorite season. The best wool mittens are from Fox River. They’re only $30, and they last forever.” — Erika Veurink, romance novelist and writer of fashion newsletter Long Live, Brooklyn
“I’m obsessed with the Minnesota brand Synch Tec. Their extremely cozy fleece hats can also be transformed into a neck gaiter — so a twofer! Everyone in my family has a few. For my 13-year-old daughter and her friends, Synch Tec is now cool, which is fun because it means actively supporting an independent designer.” — Kate Lindello, Noihsaf Bazaar founder, Duluth, Minnesota
“Muji slippers are unbelievably soft and feel like a warm cat is wrapped around my feet. I wear them in the mornings and evenings when my apartment is at its chilliest. You can throw them in the wash, and since they weigh almost nothing, I always bring them on trips.” — Sanaë Lemoine, novelist and cookbook writer, Brooklyn
“I love a bright beanie in the winter. Since I wear lots of black, gray, and navy, a pop of color makes my outfits feel more fun. I’ve had this wool one for four years, and it’s held up really well. I’m not afraid to play with colors because it’s just a hat! You’re probably taking it off anyway when you get wherever you’re going. Finally, thick wool socks are also a must for the hours I spend on the playground with my kid.” — Jennifer Cook, fashion writer and brand buyer, Brooklyn
Do you have a tried-and-true winter accessory? I’m currently on the hunt for long johns that aren’t too thick or too itchy, if anyone has a rec!
P.S. A chic winter color combo, and 14 readers on staying upbeat in the winter.
Comments
114 commentsSteger Mukluks, FTW! https://mukluks.com/ They are made in Minnesota and female owned! Jesse Diggins is their brand ambassador. Daryl Hannah wore them in Grumpy Old Men. Mine have kept me warm for 13 Minnesota winters, and they are still going strong. Feel like slippers, keep your feet toasty while constitutional observing, and I get compliments nearly every time I venture out. I could go on!
Title Nine has pants called “Cold Killer” – I love them. I spent both of my pregnancies feeling sorry for myself that I couldn’t wear them. I wear them on long walks through the whole MN winter and I play outside with my kids & go sledding in them. The butt and back of the thighs is single layer instead of fleecy like the rest of the pants, but my down coat covers my butt so it works out for me.
I always buy winter hats with visors. I think I started this in high school and never stopped. I coached a running group for girls my son’s age (10 at the time) and they told me I looked nerdy in it, but I’ve gotten compliments from other adults. And I like that it’s unisex. https://pnumaoutdoors.com/products/merino-wool-visor-beanie?srsltid=AfmBOorwnli7bvyskAxEtRVOEuXlGFiV7dX0er5W3ZR4hTfrrf4W6F7o
My fake Costco “Ugg” boots.
I live in central MN and this coat has been great for winter warmth. I’ve owned it for 3 years and I love everything about it. https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-featherfree-cozy-fleece-lined-winter-coat/id_380724?attributes=8063,43307,43326,44256,44967
My oldest Lands End coat is probably 15 and still going strong. I have two others in different colors. When they are on sale you would be hard to find anything as warm that looks good and lasts forever.
I have the world’s most sensitive ears (they don’t withstand any cold or wind) and I have a pair of wrap around earmuffs that I can wear tucked under my hair and I always wear them under hats in really cold weather for extra protection/keeping all wind out of my ears. They’ve been a huge game changer for my poor ears!
i recently bought a cold breaker wool vest – it is very wooly and cosy and the perfect layering piece. and living in texas, where it can get pretty cold but never for long, it’s great to make a light coat warmer or cute on it’s own. also, i hope this isn’t too bean soup, but i would love some more content about surviving summer in hotter climates. it often feels similar to how i see winter being discussed – you can feel very stuck inside with no desire to brave the outdoor elements. and there is such a thing as too much sun!! and it just. keeps. going. winter is my reprieve from bad weather honestly!
Caitlin, totally with you. I get a summer version of SAD here in Sacramento where we have a 5 month summer of triple digits! It’s the season I dread honestly. I try to pump myself up with plans to get in the river and drink lots of iced tea, but it’s a long, sweaty drag. CA winter is my favorite! Cool, green, refreshing! And too short.
Ororo heated vest! You can adjust how much warming you want. It’s kind of a game changer even though it also kind of feels like cheating. Also Glerups, which are not battery powered and don’t feel like cheating, haha.
Every Black Friday, I buy my “winter socks”: thick, cozy Carhartt wool socks. It is a small but true joy in my life.
cuddleduds are a life saver for longjohns that are comfy AND warm !
As a norwegian I have learned since I was a child that wearing wool is the only solution in winter. I wear merino wool undershirts, with or without sleeves based on how cold it is, like these: https://www.janus.no/collections/dame-innerste-lag-ull-t-skjorte-og-ullsinglet or these: https://pierrerobert.no/collections/ullundertoy-til-dame. I layer with a linen or cotton shirt and/or a wool sweater/cardigan. I also wear thin wool socks. I put away my cotton socks in october and take them out again in march (https://pierrerobert.no/collections/sokker-til-dame?filter.p.product_type=Ullsokker). When it is extra cold or i use hand knitted wool socks. I knit myself, and I am currently wearing my Esther cardigan newly of the needles – jacket(https://www.petiteknit.com/no/collections/cardigan/products/esther-jacket). But my favorite things to wear are colorful mittens and hats to spice up my very practical and very warm coat, and the dark winter days.
This Esther cardigan is so beautiful! I do not knit myself, is there anywhere one can buy already made?
Am I the only one that knows the old trick of taking a hand/tea towel, sewing it into a pillow case shape, filling it 3/4 of the way with rice and then sewing it closed? Put that in the microwave for 2 minutes and it will keep you warm all night. I put one in my bed while I am brushing my teeth to pre warm the bed. So cozy on my chest when I am reading in bed and it is super chilly in the house. I have loved mine for years!
I have two (store-bought) that I use for 10 months of the year. :)
Yes! My best friend’s Swiss grandmother made these for us in high school and she used cherry pits!!
Smart wool socks! Really any merino wool sock. Game changer for me.
Glerups! http://www.glerups.com
Love em!
On my second pair as I literally wore my first pair out after 10 winters. I adore these. And, y’all: Darn Tough socks from Vermont. The company will REPLACE THEM when they wear out. Smartwools have gone way down in quality IMO, but Darn Toughs are still rocking it!
As a fellow born-in-February, raised in the Midwest girlie, I have always been devastated that my birthday is the still-gets-dark-super-early kind and not the go-swimming-at-the-beach-with-friends kind. July birthdays always seemed to me like the absolute ideal. So as an adult, after talking about it forever, this year as I enter my thirties I’ve decided to take the leap and just celebrate my birthday in the summer. There will be a beach picnic with friends, there will be swimming, and there will be ice cream consumed in the sun. The only reasonable alternative, moving to the southern hemisphere, isn’t possible at the moment, although it gets more tempting by the day. In the meantime, I will be knitting myself a snood and unreservedly refusing to celebrate my birthday any time there is even the tiniest chill in the air.
Half birthday club!
Skida wear!! Such fun patterns and a woman led company. Everywhere I go in the winter, it’s fun to see all the colored hats! We know our winter wear in VT so trust me-this is great stuff. Bonus-this brand supports many things Cup of Jo supports! https://skida.com/
I feel very vain and superficial :) but may I inquire about this specific lip color? it’s so beautiful and cheery! Thank you <3 Giulia
Came here to look for this question…and hopefully the answer :-)
we’ll ask her! xoxo
Leila says “It’s MAC E for Effortless which was just the first rando red I grabbed.” (She also noted that that E for Effortless looks darker in product photos, but that’s what she used.)
Alex, I love Leila’s reply! She’s so great.
I love love love beanies and scarves. but, I have a big head and thick hair, so despite my best efforts to knit hats and buy cute new ones … most winter days you’ll find me in my circa 2007 bright yellow wool Mountain Hardware beanie with a big puffball on the top! Also loving my oversized cashmere scarf from J crew that is more blanket than scarf.
Berets, in all colors. Good for light rain, warm and pretty.
Maybe this is a helpful tip- If you ever take a trip or vacation to a mountain ski town, hit the thrift stores. Almost all of my winter gear is second hand. It’s so easy to find good used gear here because 1. Everyone needs it here and 2. Wealthy people wear a ski jacket one trip and buy a new one the next year and it ends up at thrift stores My other tip is Patagonia outlets. They sell ethical (as ethical as you can get buying new) gear and the discounts are pretty steep, especially for off season.
I love bundling up for long walks but also dislike shedding many layers to avoid getting sweaty once I get indoors. So for work days or errand runs, I like these sheer Marimekko wool scarves and Intimissi ultralight cashmere mix base tops. They give just enough warmth from door to parking lot, nipping from store to store, and still breezy enough for indoors. Bonus- they come in different colors, are real pretty and flattering. https://www.marimekko.com/se_en/p/091653-910 https://www.intimissimi.com/se/product/ultralight_l%C3%A5ng_blus_i_modalkashmir_och_spets-CLD28P.html?dwvar_CLD28P_Z_COL_INTD=660J&_gl=1*1v7g2in*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAiA1obMBhAbEiwAsUBbIkj6meftbSBkAciP2dqiPF9DQeElEglqFwJXiNzKggXRSXPQ_2sxWBoCY5AQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADtlepNPzCP03EmOccFdBVh8qILSk
Faux-fur lined doc martens are the best snow boots I’ve ever owned. I had a coworker recommend them to me, saying that she had her last pair for TEN YEARS before having to replace them. They keep my chronically cold feet dry and cozy, and the tread is no joke. Even through the current New York blizzard aftermath (read: climbing over slippery hills of rock-solid packed snow to cross the street), I can march through with confidence. And the Chelsea-boot-like style sends it to the next level, since they’re so easy to put on and take off, which is always priority for me as a lazy dog-mom who has to go outside a bunch of times each day. I cannot recommend these enough. (on the Doc Marten site, they’re called the 2976 Women’s Faux Fur Lined Chelsea Boots)
I bought these boots when I moved to Michigan, and they are basically the only pair of shoes that I wear for 5 months out of the year :) If we are out for a LONG time, I wear insulated snow boots, but these Docs are champs for everyday tromping around in the snow, ice and rain.
I’m a life long Wisconsinite and this winter is killing me. I’ve always hated it, but this year has been terrible. I love my Patagonia down puffer and recycled cashmere hats from Nordstrom. But I am desperate to find some mittens/gloves that actually keep my hands warm in negative temperatures. Help!
Norwegian double wool mittens!
I cannot attest to these as I do not own them but they seem very warm and skiiers swear by them: https://www.sweaterchalet.com/dachstein-woolwear/dw-3114-adult-mitts/?srsltid=AfmBOor2QqCdBWaOYtuj6r3t7JuVouVwJPKwGC4glWafH2e_stdUayRe
I’m a life long Michigander and I agree with you that this winter has been hellish. I have the same issue – my fingers are freezing when I walk. I bought a pair of rechargeable hand warmers and they make a huge difference. I order very little from Amazon, but I did get these there when they were on sale for $10 a pair. Ocoopa is the brand I ordered, but they all look pretty similar.
Solidarity because I am also freezing in Wisconsin! You need the Carhartt “quilts” mittens.
Glerups slippers inside, Darn Tough socks in my boots.
Yes—Darn Tough! And they’ll replace them when they wear out!
Ha–just had the same exchange as you and Emily a few comments above. YES! :)
Deep in the throes of menopause heat flashes followed by very cold Wisconsin weather. So I love sleeveless shirts under wool sweaters. My favorite wool sweaters are the retro cardigan from Garnethill. I stock up during sales. Quick to slip on and off. My feet never get hot, however so Smartwool socks or Darntough socks all day, every day. They last forever.
Any recs for the sleeveless shirts? Layers forever!
Sam, Everlane has fine merino shells that are incredibly comfortable.
I have to say, as I get ready to go out on -17c morning, my favorite thing is my Tartan Blanket Co. blanket scarf. It’s like a big warm and soft hug. It’s not itchy and I can use it as a scarf a small throw or a shawl and I love mine so much. https://us.tbco.com/collections/blanket-scarves
My all time favorite, as person who likes to wear my hair in buns, are calorimetries. They are like a headband but with a button to easily put them on and off without destroying your hairdo. https://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter06/PATTcalorimetry.html
I don’t know if it counts as an accessory, but two winters ago I finally gave in to my inner old lady and bought a pair of low boots from Ice Bug with studded soles. I live in Stockholm, Sweden, which is perpetually thawing and freezing, and it gets so icy and slippery. Now my dog walks are super relaxed and I’m never worried about slipping and breaking a hip. I have a pair of Chelsea boots from them as well, without studs but with winter tire technology – they’re more practical when I’m going to pop into the grocery store, drive my car or take the subway, but have nowhere near the grip of the studded ones.
my fav winter accessory are cuddleduds. you can find them online and at kohls. they have lots of different versions but my fav are the very thin ones. i have bought them for almost everyone in my family. stay warm and cozy, people!
I love smartwool winter socks (running style) for outdoor activity or just to wear with boots! So soft and cozy! Check these out from Minneapolis run shop Mill City Running! https://shop.millcityrunning.com/product/5603631/smart-wool/womens-run-cold-crew-socks . Also Buff neck gaiters/headbands are awesome! You can keep it in your purse and have a a headband or scarf at a moments notice! https://www.buff.com/us/original-ecostretch-neckwear-buff-solid-water-water-blue-117818761.html
Anyone have a recommendation for a down jacket that’s at least knee length and has a hood (preferably with faux fur because for some reason that’s the only way they stay on my head)? Don’t need a certain or fancy brand. Just want my butt and thighs covered.
Have you checked Lands End? They have a few that fit your criteria!
I’ve had the North Face Metropolis parka for a decade and it looks brand new. No faux fur but the hood is the perfect shape and never falls down! I’m 5’3″ and it’s almost knee length on me. High recommend, and stay warm!
32 degrees makes really great simple gear, for so inexpensive, they sell at Costco, and you can order online too. I got my mom a coat like you’re describing for like $40 a few years back and she LOVES it. https://www.32degrees.com/collections/womens?view=sl-FE90CAF6
One of my best purchases is my REI parka that covers my butt. While it doesn’t do my figure any favors, it is so cozy and the zipper isn’t finicky like all of my other winter coats. Don’t know the model name, but I would wager a guess they still make something like it.
Central Washington State here! 1- Blundstones- sturdy, warm, and cool 2- Yak-trax- lifesavers! 3- wool mittens and socks 4- Goldpaw fleece for my pups
I love my Yak-trax. I got them for winter hiking a few years ago, but now I use them in Brooklyn when the snow/ice is really bad.
I love my Columbia winter boots so much! Warm and waterproof with grippy soles and they feel like sneakers!
Ooh do you remember which specific ones they are? I’m on the hunt for some super comfy boots!
I love comfy blanket scarves…have several in multiple colors!
I second all the recs for wool base layers, wool socks, and cashmere. I just want to remind everyone that you can find al of these – not so much the socks – second hand. Ebay, thrift stores, etc. My favorite hats are made from felted cashmere sweaters and they make great scarves too. You can be warm without ton of money.
Need ideas for boots to wear with dressy work pants that aren’t tapered but more of a straight fit. I have Chelsea type boots but they look so sloppy with the pants.
Check out Lacanadienne. https://lacanadienneshoes.com/collections/sale?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI082p9L69kgMVFV3_AR1mTQhmEAAYASAAEgL_b_D_BwE&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=shoes&utm_term=&utm_campaign=brand-search_usa-en. They aren’t cheap but they are dependably waterproof, long lasting and beautiful. I live in Wisconsin and we get snow and salty slush in the spring. My suede boots can wade through ankle deep slush and keep me dry. Even after 10 years. They are a worthwhile investment. Get them through Nordstroms and enjoy a generous return policy to try different sizes.
Re bright beanies, check out Flyn, a small business that is an institution here in Maine. I have the raccoon eating a cinnamon roll, but the choices are endless. https://flynhats.com/collections/hats
Oh my gosh. I love these. I just ordered the fox mugshot beanie for my husband.
Lifelong Minnesotan here – have to give a shout-out to Wintergreen Northern Wear (majority woman-owned business)… each piece is lovingly made with such sweet Nordic detailing. Like many, we’ve been spending lots of time outside protesting and keeping watch and the -10 degree weather is no match for my beloved Wintergreen! #ICEOUT https://www.wintergreennorthernwear.com/
Thank you, Cara for protesting and standing up for your community. Seeing the protests in Minnesota give me so much hope. Stay warm, Ice OUT!!!!
https://www.uniqlo.com/ca/en/products/E479402-000/00?srsltid=AfmBOor76MgxvuP3TW-krt1vS4-VUPmWjc5E6iBl342_uNoR2kGpnx4K&colorDisplayCode=30&sizeDisplayCode=004 I love these fleece lined pants from Uniqlo! Much easier and lighter than snow pants but perfect to wear under a long parka for long walks. Also, Auclair mittens. Official mittens provider for the Canadian Olympic cross country ski team.
I live in Eddie Bauer for most of Boston winter and recommend their fleece-lined jeans to anyone who would listen! Their fur slippers are so soft and warm, and the sherpa-lined sweatpants keep me tasty even on the coldest days. I have several of their coats for different temperatures too, only complaint being how much they shed feathers! Can’t really wear black underneath.
My new Norwegian friend gifted me a merino wool base layer top and I wear it all the time now. Being newer to a snowy climate, I like the Uniqlo heat tech items but this merino base layer is only a little thicker but way warmer and because it’s pure wool just breathes so nicely. Here’s a link straight to the Norwegian brand to give you an idea, https://www.safa.no/astrid-troye; but not sure if you can ship stateside. I’m sure you can also find these layers among American options! Anyways, I’m just in love with these and will inch it out of my sleeve to show all my friends haha “look look!!” The Norwegians know their way around woolen knitwear!!
Long John rec: Kari Traa! I just got some and they are legit comfy, warm, not itchy and come in fun patterns. I came out of the change room and was like wow, these pants are actually comfortable without a weird digging in elastic and the woman helping me was like, ‘uh yeah, they were actually designed by a woman’ – an Olympic champion to be exact! https://www.karitraa.com/us/en/base-layers-and-thermals-for-women/
I like Kari Traa’s stuff! So fun. My favorite thermals are from Sweaty Betty – just the right weight and so warm and they hold up well.
Hot tip, this brand is usually at steep discount at Sierra Trading Post!
My dad’s motto has always been “there’s no such thing as bad weather just inappropriate clothing,” which I’ve taken to heart. I have four items that I always look forward to wearing- makes winter so much of a delight if you have pieces that spark joy (and warmth). 1) Hand knit wool socks by my mom (so cozy, warm and cute!) 2) The giant wool purple/yellow/grey Acne scarf I thrifted – makes bundling up for Canadian winters much more enjoyable 3) The Petite Knits Holiday Sweater Vest, I have two knit by my mom (one in cream and one in dusty pale purple) and they jazz up any outfit and add an extra layer of warmth 4) The dark grey cashmere Lord & Taylor cardigan I thrifted. It is a recent find but I wore it at least half the days in January and I really do believe everyone’s winter would be better with a bit more cashmere in their lives.
Any suggestions for warm hats with sun protection? Thanks!
Outdoor Research used to make a hat called the Snoqualmie Sombrero which had a brim all the way around and also fleece ear flaps. I don’t know if they make it anymore but if not, maybe you could find one secondhand? Just a heads up that they run snug, so go up a size from your usual head/hat size if you do find one!
I always envied my kids full body snowsuits, so when I found one at a thrift store I went for it. BEST PURCHASE EVER. I spend a lot of time roaming around outside in the cold with the littles and a full snowsuit is so cozy and warm.
That might be the best thrift find ever!
Honestly? Flip flops. As a lifelong Floridian, I’ve come to the conclusion that I would probably not survive winter north of the sunshine state. Can’t wait till it warms up to normal-ish temps here this week.
I’m so jealous of the prospect of wearing flip flops this week….and not months from now.
I’m all about that base! I wear long johns from October to April. Silk is hands down the best for under regular clothes. I get mine from the Vermont Country Store. Very granny, but the best. Uniqlo heat tech is also good and thin (but it will never outperform silk!!) For more heavy duty, merino tog 2 is my go to. Smart Wool and Woolly are the best, but the Quince are decent (they just don’t wash as well). I also wear wool underwear and wool socks. Farm to Feet are my favorite because they don’t feel quite as snug as Darn Tough and Smart Wool, but in truth, I’ve never meet a wool sock I didn’t love. But my favorite cold weather accessory is an electric heat pad. I crank that thing before bed and get into cozy (flannel!) sheets every night. There, now you know all my secrets!
Writing this from my bed that was pre-warmed by my heating pad!
Heated mattress pad ftw!! I’ve converted my whole family. Nothing better than a preheated bed.
A humidifier, or more than one depending on the size of your house. Saves your skin, your sinuses, and your wooden furniture in the dry cold months.
Okay wait I feel like this is the secret to everything! I love our humidifiers and secretly think they keep us healthier in winter???
Canadian girlie here – and it can get both cold (-40 C) and snowy AND ice-y here. 1)Aritzia super puff jacket 2)Manitobah mukluks 3)Blundstones, specifically the winter ones with more grip 4)Spikes for very slippery dog walking days (this is niche, but important) 5)Poppy Barley leather gloves
Canadian girlie here too! Totally agree re: the spikes – game changer! Love the Manitoba mukluks too (friends swear by them and these will be my next purchase). Also agree with someone earlier who suggested La Canadienne boots – I swear by these too! I’ve had the shearling lined boots for YEARS. They are incredibly warm (-20 to -40 is normal) but still look so stylish! For outdoor activities with the kids, I wear a more rugged pair of boots (north face).
For a New England winter, highly recommend the Pajar three-quarter length coat and Next Grip boots. Just spent the weekend in New York for a getaway with friends and was toasty and skid free wearing regular clothing and socks (regular hiking socks and just long sleeve jersey).
This winter I treated myself to a new pair of boots. I wanted something warm enough for a Canadian winter, that can handle ice, and are cute. These Docs have been great so far! They are easy to get on and off too which is an added bonus. https://www.softmoc.com/ca/i/dr-martens/womens/boots/lds-2976-leonore-chelsea-boot–black/r21045001l
Lifelong Minnesotan chiming in with two faves for indoor wintering: 1. LLBeans’s Winter Fleece Robe. Hoo boy she is toasty and reaches my ankles. 2. A hot water bottle at the foot of my bed at bedtime. Just the best feeling for chilly toes. This Christmas I got a knit wool cover for mine from Etsy— theee coziest.
Hell yeah to the hot water bottle!!! I swear it’s one of life’s great underrated pleasures to get into your bed with one, ok fine TWO hot water bottles nestled by your feet. Bliss!
I am deeply passionate about having trusted warm things for the winter. Having grown up in SoCal and moving progressively colder every few years (NorCal, CO, MI 🥶, now finally more temperate WA) I usually accumulate one new warm or waterproof item each winter. Here’s my list: 1) Uniqlo down jacket for a slim under layer, 2) Eddie Bauer jackets for waterproof super warm down jackets always at 50% off, 3) Blondo for trendy waterproof boots, 4) Sorel Joan of Arc for wedge waterproof traction boots, 5) Blundstones for more utilitarian Chelsea boot, 6) whatever warm hat calls to me- this year it’s a lamb wool baseball cap.
I adore my confetti felted wool scarf from https://www.margaretjanedesign.com/shop! It’s delicious and fun and somehow goes with everything. It makes me excited for colder weather and keeps my neck snuggly warm. My therapy clients always asked where I bought it from :)
Yes Shel! I was comin’ in hot to share the gospel that is Margaret Jane Design! I currently wear the biggie “Yarn Scrap Silk Kerchief in Dark” but have a few other sizes for the shoulder seasons. Cozy neck, softest wool roving, most incredible colour palette! Wearing my wool kerchief really jazzes up my head-to-toe puffer jacket / ski pants ensemble. Every winter I buy myself a new colour-way just to keep things interesting. I always feel like a cool mom at school drop off in Margaret Jane. Bonus that you can style the kerchiefs so many ways: triangle in the back, triangle in the front, around the head, knotted tight under the chin, around the waist. You name it. Love it all ways, always. I also wear Smart Wool’s merino neck gaiter daily come winter for optimal face coverage on those especially frigid polar-vortex days. Xo Margot the prairie mouse! Only 300 more days of winter until spring arrives in Manitoba! Haha
Just gaga for this felted wool scarf! Thanks for sharing!!
I had the SittingSuits website open on a phone tab for over a year, and last holiday season, finally bit the bullet and splurged on one for myself. It has bright colorful flowers all over it, and it brings me such joy (and warmth!!!) during the cold gloomy winter months. It’s advertised as a Danish swimming suit AND can double as a blanket for a picnic?? SOLD
Obsessed with every weight of Uniqlo base layers (tops and bottoms), and also a very soft wool bandana from from Billy Bamboo worn as a scarf (called a Cravat on their site).
Blundstone boots forever!!!! I’m a sneaker gal in the summer, but as soon as snow hits, I pull on Blundstones and basically don’t take them off for 5 months. They’re not insulated, but throw on a trusty pair of wool socks, and they keep my feet toasty while still feeling low-profile enough to not throw off my outfits.
This down scarf/hood is my go-to in the winter time. It makes be unbelievably warm and happy: https://www.amazon.com/ZLYC-Winter-Windproof-Hooded-Balaclava/dp/B0CBPL3HPK/
We do all the fancy wool layers, etc. but we joke that our house is unofficially sponsored by the Uniqlo Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full Zip Jacket. Every family member has one. They’re so soft, huggable, remarkably cozy, (I know, I know, they’re made from plastic but it’s recycled?) and by winter’s end you look like a matted hungover muppet. But in the words of Samantha Irby, we like them! Also, if you can’t find your Fluffy in the house, the first place to look is under a cat! https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/products/E449753-000/00?colorDisplayCode=36&sizeDisplayCode=004
Snowshoes! As a recent transplant to northern WI from down south, I am enjoying my first experience snowshoeing. I’ve been living in Lands End serious sweats pocket leggings, which are probably on sale again, and a long quilted hooded vest.
UNIQLO HEATTECH!!! (I am saying this in the tone of *Elmo-on-fire meme*) https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/women/heattech
My new addition this year is this hat https://urbnelemnts.com/products/astor-reflective-box-cuffed-winter-beanie . My dad got them for my kids for Christmas, and I’ve been borrowing! It’s soft and fleecy inside, is really warm, and doesn’t wreck my hair despite my big head. And the silver woven in is reflective! Super great for being out and about as the sun goes down. I’ve been wearing the bright orange for some cheer in frozen NYC!
I work outside so this probably won’t work for most people but Carhartt lined bib overalls are the best there is. I have had mine for well over 20 years and they’re still going strong. keeps me super warm but also keeps my clothes underneath from smelling like a barn (well, to me anyway!)
I have wide forefeet plus a bunion and this has made winter boot shopping a challenge. Fortunately, I came across these a couple of months ago. They don’t look that wide but they don’t pinch at all, plus they’re made in Canada and Canadians know about living with ice and snow! https://tiptopshoes.com/products/toe-warmers-womens-trek-waterproof-boot-black?_pos=4&_fid=b9c92a463&_ss=c&variant=405310930947
I absolutely adore my Manitobah Moccacins! The company was started by a young Metis (Canadian Indigenous) man, and they are very rooted in supporting the Indigenous community. We only get 6-8 hours of daylight in Northern Canadian winters, and these brighten dark mornings for me. They are SO soft, and feel like a warm hug on my feet. I’ve bought them for my kids too, they are beyond cute in the mini sizes. https://www.manitobah.ca/products/tipi-slipper?variant=959197609
Yes! I looove my Manitobah Mukluks!
I live in the 32 Degrees base layers from Costco. They come in 2 packs, are inexpensive and I find they are wearing well.
Those are the only things my VERY picky 6 yr old will wear this winter. They are silky, form fitting but not too tight (like apparently every other brand of kid leggings). The Goldilocks of pants and long sleeves if you are struggling with keeping a young kid with sensory challenges warm this winter.
I know this isn’t the point of the post but Leila, you are giving me hope with how much your bangs have grown since your October week of outfits. I am nearly 18 months off chemo and am devastated by how little hair growth I have. I’m channeling your energy!
Hi! I was curious what jeans Sanaë was wearing with her Muji slippers? The color is perfect!
Re: bright beanie After moving to Denver from DC in 2018, I wanted to include more color for my outdoor gear. Turns out my mind only calculates a fun color as an eggplant-y purple. I didn’t realize until gearing up this weekend and I was wearing purple smartwool leggings, turtleneck, socks, and then added my dark pinkish purple snow bibs. If you see a purple person walking around a ski cafeteria, just know it may be me and I hope it looks fun!
I knit Purl Soho’s Cozy Up Cowl in Nutmeg and Chestnut, and people compliment me on it all the time. It’s super soft and I even wear it indoors without a coat.