Extra-warm yet stylish winter apparel you're going to want to wear every day
Finds to keep you toasty and looking great out there too
Many of us will likely be spending a lot more time outdoors than usual this winter, for physically distanced socialization and to maintain some exercise and fun in our everyday routines. And if, like me, you're not big on wintery weather (and perhaps don't have many pieces designed to keep you warm with extended time in freezing temps), making the most of the next six months may call for a few strategic cold-weather wear purchases.
Of course, a great, insulated coat is key. If you already have a heavy-duty one that you love, thriving in sub-zero weather is just a matter of stepping up your layering strategy, looking for apparel that is additionally lined or made from technical fabrics that will retain heat well, and adding a few extra-warm accessories. Here's to many cozy backyard visits, snowy strolls and park hangs with friends and loved ones this winter!
Base basics
Uniqlo's Heattech range of garments is well-priced and very, very popular for everyday wear. The line is available for the whole family in various levels of warmth, and is particularly ideal for winter layering thanks to its ability to hold heat and wick away moisture.
Heattech Ultra Warm Turtleneck T-Shirt, $29.90, Uniqlo
It's a bit of a splurge, but you can't go wrong with a merino wool base layer. A natural material, merino wool is known to be warm, breathable and antimicrobial, which is a great combination of features to have in any layering piece.
Women's Merino 200 Oasis Thermal Leggings, $115, Icebreaker
Even the toastiest winter boots may not do much for you if you're wearing them with thin trouser or novelty socks. Thick and cozy boots socks are essential if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Windriver Men's T-Max Heat Thermal Boot Socks, $11.99, Mark's
Everyday pieces that are extra-warm
All things quilted and slightly puffy are trending this fall, and this quilted "shacket" (shirt and jacket combo) is a versatile and very warm take on the trend. Layer it over a thermal turtleneck on those extra-cold days.
Water Repellent Overshirt, $59.90, Zara
This plaid, wool-blend shirt features a body that's lined in a soft, textured polyester fabric; the sleeves are taffeta-lined. Wear it solo or as a jacket now, and as an inner- or mid-layer this winter.
Cozy Sherpa-Lined Plaid Wool-Blend Shirt Jacket for Men, $89.99, Old Navy
There are lots of great packable, insulated jackets on the market these days; but fitted, down-filled pants can be difficult to find for adults, especially for under $100. This unisex pair is highly-rated and would be so cute for a snowball fight in the park.
Tapasimme Insulated Pant, $89.99, Amazon
If snow pants aren't your thing, it may still help to swap out your everyday trousers with a lined pair of pants. These ones are made out of a wind-resistant thermal fabric and are good with some moisture — so you can wear them for a walk in the park with your pup, or even ice skating.
Tobo Softshell Pants - Men's, $124.95, MEC
As you probably know, jeans don't always feel comfortable in extreme temperatures. But these winter-ready ones are fleece-lined and have a bit of stretch for movement. Plus, they're available in regular, petite and medium-tall inseams from size 2 to 20.
Women's True Shape Jeans, $99, L.L. Bean
Offered in regular, petite, tall and plus sizes, these ski pants are windproof and fleece-lined. They're sleek enough to wear for a patio meet-up with friends, but will also perform on the slopes.
Alpenglow Stretch Ski Pants, $189 (on sale for $132.30), Eddie Bauer
Multi-tasking accessories
Toronto designer Ross Mayer's new, unisex face mask design will also keep your ears covered and protected from the elements! It's made with a thick bouclé fabric and lined with a soft, rayon-bamboo material.
Black Wrap Winter Mask, $44, pre-order at MAYER
Part cape, part scarf, this hybrid padded accessory is all style. It can be worn over a sweater for now, and over (or under!) your favourite woven winter coat on colder days. In a pinch, it could even work as a lap blanket or seat cover on a chilly patio or deck.
Padded Hybrid Scarf, about $153 CAD, available at COS
Balaclavas are still definitely in fashion, and this one by Burton features a pretty floral print and soft, lightweight fleece fabric. Plus, it's designed to fit under a snowsports helmet.
Ember Fleece Balaclava, $34.99, Burton
Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.
