Five staples you can’t live without this winter

With the weather getting colder, it’s time to start preparing for winter before it hits, and we realize that we have nothing to keep us warm. With so many options on how to bundle up, it can be a bit overwhelming. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind when picking out the basics.

Our mothers have embedded the command into our minds ever since we were little: Put on a coat before leaving the house. This is obviously the most important tool to stay warm, but with so many options, how do you know what you’re buying not only looks good, but is also practical?

Coats are a broad category to cover, but there are a couple things you should keep in mind while shopping. Around here, you’re definitely going to need a coat that is weatherproof. Since traditional raincoats usually lean toward function rather than fashion, a good alternative is to find a warm, good-quality coat that you like and seal it with waterproofing spray.  Double-breasted wool peacoats or military-inspired jackets are my personal favorites because they are the warmest and available from around $30 and up. They also make some styles with hoods, which cost a little bit more, but are a

useful feature.

If you have a little extra money, a good coat is a worthwhile investment. If you spray it with sealant, it can last you for years. If you’re on a tight budget, I suggest you start at Forever 21 or Target. They have a variety of wool blend coats to choose from in all colors and styles that won’t break your bank, and you can move up from there. There are many styles to choose from, and with different tastes, it’s impossible to pick just one. I encourage you to search the Internet to find a style you like and then try to find a similar style within your price point. Old Navy, Nordstrom and Burlington Coat Factory are all good places to look into.

The second investment I would consider making is in a good pair of rain boots. These will also stay with you for a long time and are useful almost all year round here. Again, I recommend Target as a starting point. With all their styles under $30, it’s an affordable way to go. I especially like their “Yellow Zetta” rain boots at $25, which are a refreshing take on the classic yellow style. If you have a higher budget, Jeffrey Campbell’s “Marsha” Over the Knee rain boots are a sleek and modern option at $80, available at Nordstrom’s.

Gloves are also a must and provide a way to incorporate color into your outfit. Whether you prefer leather, suede or knit, there are plenty of great options. Urban Outfitters’ Classic Leather Gloves come in black, purple and brown and are a very chic choice at $34. They also have a variety of styles in other materials that are worth looking into.

To keep your neck warm, I suggest an eternity scarf. Since it’s just one big circle, you don’t have to worry about tying it or having it come undone—just wrap it around your neck several times and you’re good to go. Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters both offer good options between $10–$30.

The last thing you should definitely seek out before winter is warm headwear. There’s nothing wrong with a traditional beanie, but if you’re looking for something a little more outside the box, try Urban Outfitters’ Pins and Needles wool bow hat at $24 or Forever 21’s black felt cloche at $13.80. These hats are both similar in style and have a vintage flair.

The options are endless when it comes to picking out winter clothing. There are so many styles to fit anyone’s taste. Have fun picking out some new staple pieces to add to your wardrobe this season. ?