After an unseasonably warm stretch, winter seems to have made its fashionably late arrival to Boston this weekend. I’m definitely a creature of habit when it comes to dressing and there are certain items that I could not imagine making it through the winter without.
1. Riding Boots: They’re comfortable for walking and a lot more stylish (and flattering) than Uggs. I prefer the brown variety as brown goes with EVERYTHING (including black), especially if you go with a lighter shade like cognac. I bought these Franco Sarto ones earlier this fall and they’ve become a weekend staple.
2. Leggings: Whether for lounging around the house or under longer sweaters and tunics, I probably put on a pair of leggings 5 out of 7 days a week (more so immediately after a waistline-expanding holiday). I have several pairs from H&M, but recently splurged on the new Spanx version (scored at a 30% off discount at Mint Julep on the day after Thanksgiving). Just remember – leggings are not pants. If you are leaving your house, your butt should be covered regardless of how well-shaped it is. Think this not that. No one wants to be staring at your crack while they’re riding the T to work.
3. Opaque Tights: I love tights for a variety of reasons: they hide my pasty, dry winter skin, I don’t have to worry about exposing myself due to errant wind gusts, and they generally keep me warm and snuggly. I’m a big fan of the Hue Opaque Tights for the quality and value, and Santa brought me these fleece-lined tights (can also pass as leggings) for Christmas. As I tested them in 20 degree weather today, I can attest that they do in fact keep you warm.
4. Cardigans: I can never have enough cardigans. I wear them over blouses year-round for work and with t-shirts and tanks on the weekend. Go with a longer length (one that hits at the bottom of the hip) and you can wear them with leggings shame-free.
5. Blazers: Blazers are good investments because they can double as work-wear and outerwear, depending on the weather. My most recent acquisition is this velvet blazer from Banana Republic – work-appropriate yet the velvet makes it festive enough to top off your party ensembles.
6. Scarves: I have a serious scarf-addiction, but everyone needs a signature accessory, right? At least I can justify my purchases in the winter, when scarves serve the practical purpose of actually keeping you warm in addition to being a stylish accent to an outfit. This fall/winter I found myself frequenting the Gap for scarves – very cute for under $30 a pop.
7. Slim Puffer Coat: If you only have one winter coat, I’d make it a puffer (with hood). Going with a fitted version keeps it cute enough for everyday wear, but hearty enough to stand up to the cold and snow. I want to trade in my current Ellen Tracy version for the J.Crew wintress puffer.
8. Knit Hat: While hats keep you warm (obviously), their most important attribute is that they allow me to run out the door on a weekend morning (who am I kidding…more like early afternoon) without ever even touching my hair. Beret styles keep you warm without giving you hat-head.
Baubles and Beer 
