I'm the first person to say "I'm cold"—and I say it year-round. So you can only imagine how often I repeat it during a New York City winter. Last year, I decided to embark on a mission to finally stay warm. After hours of research (and literally googling “how to stay warm in the winter”), I started by investing in a wool coat from Filippa Hägg, thermal tights, and a pair of insulated knee-high boots.
This year, my determination continues. I’ve been eyeing cashmere or leather gloves, knitted bonnets, alpaca fur hats, full-body puffers, Intimissimi tops, and Uniqlo Heattech—and I might even cave and get a pair of Uggs. If it comes down to it, I’ll go as far as industrial workwear for subzero temperatures.
As a chronically cold person who hates being cold, I was curious to see how our editors stay warm during the winter—here’s what they told me.
Judith Jones, Associate Shopping Director
"I’m a big fan of Aritizia’s puffer coats that strike the perfect balance of style and warmth. The Supersnug CliMatte Puff is my winter go-to—made to deliver warmth to -4ºF, and its longer versions can deliver warmth to -22ºF. Take your pick!"
"I’m all about warm base layers in winter. I love the feel of ALO’s Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturne Long Sleeve top, which has a body-skimming fit and the softest brushed interior for extra warmth in winter."
Allyson Payer, Senior Fashion Editor
"I bought this Toteme coat years ago and am always amazed by how warm it is. (It doesn't really look like it would be, as it's not super thick.) As a bonus, it looks cool with everything, and you can easily fit a sweater or sweatshirt underneath it."
"If my ears and head are cold, everything is cold. A cashmere beanie is my go-to, as it's warm but doesn't look or feel bulky."
"I have this jacket in several colors and wear one of them pretty much daily. You won't see me going to a Pilates class or walking my dog without it on cold days."
Sierra Mayhew, Fashion Editor
"When shopping for winter boots, you'll encounter several pairs that don't offer much lining or are easily damaged by the snow. This purchase from La Canadienne will be the best you'll make because they come water-resistant, and the shearling lining keeps your feet so so warm. I've been wearing them for two winters straight and am obsessed with every detail on them."
"I'm known by my friends for my fabulous coat collection because I'm a big believer in making a statement with your outerwear. When giving fashion advice, I always tell people that in the winter, your coat makes the first impression when you walk in the room, so choose wisely."
"Another way to make an elegant statement is to pair any LBD of your choosing with a pair of stylish gloves. Here's a pair that's sitting in my cart right now."
Josephine Hadjiloucas, Assistant Shopping Editor
"The Uniqlo Heattech is my secret to braving the NYC cold. I wear these Ultra Warm Leggings under trousers, skirts, and dresses to stay looking chic on NYC's freezing streets."
"Another Heattech find. I'd take advantage of the two-for-$15 pricing on these Slouchy Socks."
"I just picked up this 100% Cotton Oversized Sweater from Gap, and I'm excited to style it this winter. I find cotton to be an important part of my winter wardrobe because of its warmth and breathability."
Audry Hiaoui, Associate Shopping Editor
Buy two, get the third 50% off. It comes in a turtleneck version as well.
This Paloma Wool knitted bonnet has been on my wish list since last season.
Smartwool is essential.
Shop More Winter Items
Aritzia's long Super Puff is loved for a reason once it gets to a certain temperature.
Cashmere tech gloves for $49.
It's Ugg season.
I'm in need of a scarf.
My friend has this and calls it her "blanket coat."
Baserange has so many winter accessories.
I couldn't forget to include ACNE's winter accessories.
Layered under a wool coat.
Cashmere-lined gloves.