5 Must Have Winter Accessories

Sylvie  Branch

There is more to dressing for winter weather than piling on layers of clothing. With the right accessories, you can stay warm and stylish. Whether you are braving a winter storm on your way to work, the grocery store, or a date, you do not need to compromise on style. Stay chic, pulled together and must importantly, warm with the following five items.

1. Long underwear: Before you say, no way, take a look at these sleek versions. These are not your grandpa's long johns. They offer an invisible layer of insulation so that you can avoid bulky, frumpy layers and maintain your style and level of comfort. Keep a few pairs of Terramar Women's Thermasilk long underwear so you be ready for your outdoor adventures without adding a visual pound.


2. Layering pieces:
There is a trick to layering to keep you from looking like your own "before" photo. As mentioned above, long underwear is the ideal first layer, from there add thin tops in the right order. Put tops with a higher neckline on first and then work out to tops with lower necklines in order to see the layers and not just the bulk. Fitted sweaters can be just as warm as their bulky counterparts, maybe even more so since the fabric holds the warmth close to your skin rather than letting air in. Consider a Sofia cashmere turtleneck over a silk long johns with a fitted jacket over top. This sleek look is a far cry from a heavy sweatshirts.

3. Hats:
Hats are an essential winter accessory. Choose one that suits your personal style. Fur-lined trapper hats are both trendy and warm, but not for everyone. Maybe you are more the beanie hat type. If so, this double-lined acrylic and rabbit hair crochet beanie with pom pom may be perfect. Whatever hat you choose, know that you can help avoid hat-hair by rubbing a dyer sheet on the inside of your hat. After the dryer sheet does it's magic, spritz the inside with extra-hold hairspray to further prevent static.

4. Boots:
If you have ever worn cozy UGGs, you probably found out rather quickly that although they are warm, they are not waterproof which makes them a poor choice for snowy winter weather. Choosing a cute waterproof alternative is possible. Aside from that, you should also consider their temperature recommendations before purchasing. Not all boots are created equal. If you are taking the kids sledding, you will want a warm pair of boots that may not be same boots you would choose when heading out shopping.

5. Gloves: I cannot function without a warm pair of gloves in the winter. Isotoner gloves are a classic option. They now come with the ability to use your smart phone without taking them off which is a handy feature. Remember to use gloves, hats and scarves as a way to add a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. Accent a black jacket and boots with bright white accessories, or go for a shocking red. Whatever you choose, a hint of color can change your look from drab to dashing in an instant.

Published by Sylvie Branch - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Creative professional with a triple whammy of job titles; freelance writer, artist, educator. Sylvie was a Rising Star for Y!CN in 2009, was part of the Top 1000 in 2010 and won the Lifestyle award in 2011....  View profile

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