Baby, it’s cold outside—and you have no choice but to abandon your flannel jammies and brave the winter chill. But winter-wear musts (think scarves, gloves and boots) needn’t be all work and no play. Who says that you have to trade cuteness for frumpy, utilitarian pieces that are about as appealing as shoveling mounds of snow in your driveway?
While you’ll find plenty of winter boots to keep your tootsies dry and warm, you won’t find many pairs that you actually look forward to wearing. After spending too many winters scampering from home to work in cold-weather boots that made us feel more dowdy logger than chic stylista, we’ve decided not to settle for winter essentials that we aren’t excited to wear.
That means no bland, itchy scarves. No huge, bumbling mittens. And no clunky boots. Basically, nothing we’re not proud to be seen in. So, here are the latest cold-day essentials that have us feeling all sorts of warm and toasty inside:
1. The Original Wellies: Yes, we know what you’re thinking—wellies are meant for torrential downpours. But can they hack it in a snow storm? Why yes, dears, they can. Aside from the obvious—they’ll keep your feet dry when the snow gets sloppy—you can winterize your Hunter Rain Boots with one simple purchase: Welly Socks. The same people who brought you the indestructible king of wellies also make a fleece insert that fits snugly inside of your boots. Original Rain Boot and Welly Socks, Hunter.
2. Dainty Gloves: These certainly aren’t the massive mittens you rocked as a tot, but the ruffles may hearken back to your tutu days. We love that the red will pop against our camel pea coats or black down jackets. Plus, these gloves aren’t so bulky that they’ll kill all hope of finding things in your bag or answering your cell. Ruffled Cuff Knit Gloves, Echo.
3. Cheery Scarf: As everyone else seems to gravitate toward blacks and grays when the snow starts falling, we’re starved for color. When the days grow darker and shorter, we could use some happy prints and an occasional shock of pink. With us? Good. We dare you to grab this chunky scarf off the coat rack, pink pom-poms trailing behind, without grinning. Wavy Striped Scarf, Juicy Couture.
4. Impossibly Chic Wellies: If the simple, stoic sturdiness of the Hunter wellies isn’t your thing, these mega-glossy boots should do the trick. These pretty patent stunners would be ideal for less frigid climates—West Coast, perhaps? But they are waterproof. So, for those stuck in ten-below weather, we suggest adding fleece socks and some stylish leg warmers. Wales Boot in Cement Gray, London Fog.
5. Serious Snow Boots: Let us count the ways in which we’ve fallen for these boots, shall we? Well, there’s the practicality: These are, after all, waterproof shoes with Thinsulate Insulation, full-length fleece lining and some serious grip. But then there’s the aesthetic lure. Plaid, patent and a serious serving of rugged chic? Yes, please! Torino Snow Boot, Sorel.
6. Studded Gloves: When we first happened upon these gorgeous wool gloves, we couldn’t decide if the smattering of silver studs gave off a tough-girl vibe or a look-at-me flash of pretty, feminine sparkle. Either way, we’re smitten. Studded Wool Gloves, Aqua.
7. Rubber-Soled Booties: These suede booties are tougher than they seem. The wedge is sturdy and provides more support than heels (translation: no worries about slipping on a snow-covered sidewalk). Plus, the sole is rubber, so you won’t have to fret about the fate of your shoes in the winter slush. Ideal for those who wouldn’t be caught dead in flats or rugged snow boots. Kali Wedge Bootie in Greystone, Matiko.
