6 Key Pieces to Survive Winter

After spending the last few winters in the south, I am not excited about being back in the tundra, aka Chicago, I have NO IDEA how I’m going to survive this winter! Was it always this cold!? My blood has definitely thinned, but after surviving 23 Chicago winters, I think I can handle this one!

Okay pity party over, I knew I had to get smart about dressing warm (my chic furry jacket I bought for the sole purpose of #fashion won’t cut it anymore) to get through the winter that feels like ages long already (festive Christmas lights and pretty snowfall aside). But if you know me, you know I am a fashionista through and through, and no weather is cold enough to prevent me from dressing like it. So, without further ado, here are the pieces that have helped me stay nice and warm in the Chicago winter, and look darn good doing it.

1. A Coat (Like a real coat)

Good news, ladies — puffers are in! Ever since the fashion gods got together with the health gods and made sporty-chic a thing, everyone has been rocking the warmest trend of the season. Full disclosure: I have had my long puffer jacket since college and I have NO idea how I ever lived without it — walking in 20 degree weather is now more of a delightful stroll than UTTER TORTURE (not to be dramatic). It is an investment, but one that is SO worth it!

They key to a good puffer is that it covers the booty. You think I’m crazy, but wait until you get a long jacket and your eyes will be opened to a whole new world of warmth! To look more fashion than abominable snowman, get yours in a bright or metallic color or go for a style that’s slightly cropped, belted, or long.

2. Pom Pom Beanie

You know ’em, you love ’em — the winter accessory that’s taken over magazines and Instagram feeds around the world and will make you the cutest snow bunny. You can spot me with a Pom Pom beanie every day of the year from November-February. Make sure your winter beanie this year has a big, fluffy pom at the top to simultaneously stay in fashion and stay warm.

3. Blanket Scarves

Welcome to the best invention since sliced bread — a blanket you can wear in public!? UHH that’s a no-brainer! They also double as the ultimate travel hack. Cold on an airplane? You know what to do. Unwrap your scarf and you got yourself a built-in blanket. Get one in a stylish plaid or soft fabric to update your most simple winter looks.

Also with the wicked wind in the Windy City you will be happy to have a scarf to cover your neck and nose! Trust me, you do not want to have frozen nostrils – been there, done that.

4. Shoes with (Faux) Fur Lining

Snow boots are the obvious go-to (shoutout to my Uggs!), but there’s a plethora of shoes out there in a plethora of styles that keep your toes warm — get yourself a pair of booties or loafers with faux fur lining. You’ll look trendy and stylish on the outside, but no one will ever know how warm and toasty you feel on the inside. Don’t forget to double up with fuzzy socks!

5. Tech-Friendly Gloves

Sure, warmth is the goal, but a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do! Don’t let the cold stop you from taking a selfie, scrolling through Insta, or pressing “Order” on your Starbucks Mobile Order (we’ve all been there). Replace your standard mittens with tech-friendly alternatives that have easy-access holes or screen accessible finger pads. After all, scrolling through Instagram is better when you know you won’t get frost bite…

6. A Chunky Knit Sweater

I mean is there really such a thing as too many sweaters? Correct answer: NO! Not only are they stylish with pants, leggings, or a midi skirt, but they are SO COZY AND WARM. Kiss your beloved tops and tees a temporary kiss goodbye until spring, and rotate your chunky knits every day, because you will not want to wear anything else, trust me.