Beanies

Let’s start out simple with beanies – everyone always has them, everyone always needs more. Now that I walk everywhere, I almost always wear a beanie as I walk out the door – so my collection is growing. This season, The Ganni beanies are all the rage. BUT, they are pricey sitting at just under $100.

Luckily, I have found them for $68 on SSENSE.

Blanket Scarves

Again, starting out with the basics. But surprisingly, I didn’t have a solid scarf until I moved to Chicago. And now that I have one – the addiction begins. Acne Studios scarves have been the star of every fall and winter for the past few seasons, and they have not gone anywhere. The colorful blanket scarf is essential to your winter wardrobe. I went into Madewell to buy one and the employee there said it best – “If a scarf isn’t swallowing my face, then I don’t want it”.

If the beloved Acne Studios scarf is out of reach but you love the look of it, try these affordable options from Madewell, Forever 21 and Saks Off 5th.

Weather Proof Boots

Okay, yes, Uggs are back in. And I love that. I have worn my Uggs non stop, but once we got our first big snow my boots were basically destroyed and had to dry for days. SO, I resorted to my 2017 Sorel’s that definitely need an upgrade. Having a cute weatherproof shoe is key to getting through the months of January through April.

Some boots that I have had my eye on are there Sherpa Sorel’s, and the 90’s cult favorite Moon Boot.

Quality Skincare

As I have began to make my own money you pick and choose where you prioritize your extra spending money, and I have found mine to be skincare. Buying quality skincare that works for you is worth every penny – especially in the winter. My skin dries and breaks out out horribly as soon as it hits below 30 degrees, and the fix to this for me has been Sunday Riley. While I use Sunday Riley in other forms of skincare such as acne treatment, anti-aging, etc., some of their products have saved my skin from completely drying out. The two products that help my skin the most in the winter the Juno face oil and Tidal water cream.

Vest

I talked about the comeback of the vest in my 2021 Trend Forecasting article and I was (decently) spot on. Puffer was huge again this winter, including puffer vest. Aside from a puffer, any oversized vest is the perfect combo between style and warmth. This vest from Storets has been seen everywhere, and is on sale in multiple colors.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses in the winter sounds weird, but are much needed when the sun reflects off of a fresh layer of snow. And, what is better than a new pair of sunglasses? These are Devon Windsor from Revolve, and remind me of a lot of top designer sunglasses from Bottega, Dior and Celine.

Other sunglasses on my list are the Rayban Burbank, and the Rayban Julie.

Skin Tight Layers

Layering is everything in the winter, and at the base of every good layering is a skin tight turtleneck. I have this shirt from Aritzia in three colors, and wear this on its own or under crewnecks.

Another skin tight layer that I love is again, from Aritzia, and is the TNA Cropped Ribbed Long Sleeve.

Big Bags

The micro bag trend is cute, but definitely not practical in the winer. For Christmas I got a larger bag that carrier more than my debit card and lip balm, and it has been a game changer. Especially when wearing a large coat, these small bags don’t cut it. I have loved the Puffin Bag from Simon Miller, and for winter the black sterling puffin is unreal.

Other larger bags that I love are the By Far Amber Bag, Stand Studio Lola Tote, and vintage designer totes.

Lip Balm

I am sure you have seen this lip mask all over TikTok, but it truly has kept my ultra dry lips in check through the past few months. I apply this mask in the morning and at night, and sometimes put it on with a lip liner before I run out the door to go to a dinner or drinks.

If you want a more on-the-go lip balm that is just as shiny and nourishing, try the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm.

The Super Puff

Yes, not just any winter coat. THE Super Puff from Aritzia. If you know me at all you know that there is nothing more that I love than this jacket. They are such good quality for the price that they are, which is why I have continued to purchase multiple. Save yourself the time and order one online now.

Hydrating Body Wash

You know the feeling when you get out of the shower and IMMEDIATELY need to put on lotion? The worst. This body wash is my favorite because it is so hydrating, and the ingredients are clean which is perfect for sensitive skin. Pair this with the Necessaire exfoliator and body lotion afterwards and your winter skin will be unmatched.