Friday Five: 5 Things You Need to Survive Winter

Guess how many times I’ve gotten asked how winter in Chicago is since we moved. A LOT. I’m getting the sense people want me to be suffering I’ve been asked so much. My honest opinion? It’s not really that bad. I mean, it’s bad but you prepare for it. It’s just a different. While I’m still fresh to this colder climate, today’s Friday Five is all about 5 things that have made this transition really easy.

1. A good coat. Duh! This is what everyone thinks about first when they think of snow. After doing extensive research, I decided to invest in a Canada Goose. Pricey yes, but sooo worth it. It’s the warmest thing I’ve ever put on. I’ve tried other coats at the same price point down to ones around $100. There is no competition for a Canada Goose plus there is a lifetime warranty! However, if you’re looking for something under $200, I’ve rounded up the best ones I could find below! They’re all puffers (of course). They’re just SO much warmer than anything else.

2. Thermal Leggings. Okay, so I initially scoffed at the idea of fleece lined tights when my husband suggested them. The first thing that popped into my head was those ugly Long Johns that we used to wear on ski trips. NOT attractive. However, he totally won me over with these Nike leggings. The bonus is that they can double as workout gear if you like to run outside during the colder months. I mentioned this in yesterday’s post but I’ve been wearing these under all my pants and they really do help keep your legs warm without all the bulk! I’m also weirdly obsessed with the logo on these. I have plain ones from last season but for some reason, these seem so much cooler.

3. Thick socks. This is probably the least sexy item a girl wants to think about. Visions of sitting in front of a laundry basket full of my husband’s socks come to mind. Inevitably, I can’t find the mate to at least one pair! However, after the move, I had to add a ton of socks to my wardrobe. Those thin athletic gym socks just weren’t cutting it. I went on a quest to find cute socks and swear by a few. First, there’s the Hunter socks. Who doesn’t love those cable knits peeking out over your rain boots? Second, Free People. Yes, Free People. I was surprised too! Look for the really fuzzy socks and your feet will thank you! I’ve linked to a few ones that I got for Christmas and love below!

4. Warm scarves. The word “warm” is the key here! There are so many scarves out there that while cute, don’t cut it when it comes to snow, freezing rain, and wind chill. I swear by the Kolby scarf (I own it in 3 colors) but linked to a few more that give it a good run for its money!

5. Over the knee boots. YAS. Since your knees are usually the first thing to get cold, OTK boots can save you during winter! I’m sure this one comes as no surprise because I’ve been wearing them in almost every post for the last month. The reality is, it’s freaking cold here and I’m just trying to survive. OTKs make shooting so much easier, they’re practical, and they slim your leg (no matter what size and shape you are, trust me). Lately, I’ve been loving these by Marc Fisher because the slight point in the toe makes it just a little more interesting. That said, I do love anything by Stuart Weitzman (I really want these in Topo) and Steve Madden makes a really good version for under $100 as well. See below for my tried and true favorites!

Do you have any tips for staying warm in the winter? I feel like I could have also put hand warmers on the list but that’s such a boring one. Truthfully, I have only used them for one day this winter too. It was only because I saw them in my closet as I was getting ready so I remembered I actually had them. Bottom line, these 5 items are what is keeping me warm this winter! Bring it on, Chicago!