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East coast winters never get easier. I would know — I’ve lived through nearly 30 of them. Seasonal depression hits hard, and the endless snow and frigid temperatures don’t help. That said, curating a functional and fashionable winter wardrobe has lifted my spirits and, you know, keeps me warm when it’s so cold that it almost hurts to go outside.
Whether you’ve lived in a chilly area your whole life or are new to a dip in temperature, this list of winter essentials — including coats, thermal vests, accessories, and more — will make the cold months a bit more bearable. The 15 items below have defended me from frostbite without sacrificing style. Upgrade your closet with these picks, and who knows? Winter just might become your favorite time of year.
15 Best Winter Fashion Staples That Will Actually Keep You Warm
1. Lasts for Years: I call this Uniqlo puffer coat ‘old reliable’ because it has kept me warm and toasty through seven frigid winters — and it still looks new!
2. Layering Must-Have: I used to hate winter fashion until I mastered the art of layering. I wear this turtleneck on its own and also layer it under trendy vests and sweaters.
3. My Secret Weapon: I’m able to survive — and thrive! — in extra wintry weather, thanks to this thermal vest that gently warms my torso and fends off frostbite. It also helps that the puffer design is very trendy.
4. Sleek and Warm: I prefer wearing dresses, even in the winter. With this cashmere sweater dress from Quince in my repertoire this year, I’m staying cozy and chic. I already have multiple colors in my cart because of the affordable price.
5. Cashmere for Less: I’ll only buy cashmere from Quince. Seriously! The quality is on par with designer labels, while the price is shockingly low. I adore the unique funnel neckline on this piece.
6. For the Night’s Out: There’s something about a fur jacket that feels ritzy and elegant. This faux fur option is much more ethical and softer than the real thing.
7. Don’t Forget Gloves! I wouldn’t be able to survive the blustering winters without a pair of cozy gloves. Made from cashmere, they keep my fingers comfortable even when I’m outside in freezing temps for hours at a time.
8. Cutest Headgear: When I don’t want to mess up my hair, I love wearing fuzzy earmuffs. They keep my ears warm and instantly level up my style. I don’t go anywhere without them.
9. If It’s Extra Cold: The wind chill can sometimes make it feel like zero degrees in the northeast. For those nearly unbearable days, I keep my head protected with this beanie. I own it in a few bright colors to make a fashion statement.
10. Don’t Forget Your Feet! Uggs are coming back! (But if you ask me, they were never not in style.) I see everyone wearing these all winter, probably because they’re the plushest, coziest shoes I’ve ever felt.
11. A Nice Change: If I get sick of wearing sweaters (which does inevitably happen every year), I pull out Edikted’s hefty rugby top. The fabric is thick, and it’s one of the easiest items to style. Just add some jeans and boots, and you’re good to go!
12. Cable Knit Cutie: Cable knit sweaters never ever go out of style. This Nordstrom pick has been a staple in my winter wardrobe for over five years!
13. Plush Secret: My favorite waterproof Chelsea boots have a hidden feature — they’re lined with faux fur to keep my feet warm and cozy with every step.
14. Crank Up the Fun: Corduroy pants aren’t just a fashion statement — they’re also inherently warm. This affordable pair comes in fun colors to melt away the winter blues.
15. The Warmer the Better: My everyday leggings aren’t thick enough to keep out the winter chill. However, this fleece-lined alternative does the trick.
