It's Functional-Dressing Season—5 Winter Buys That Are Secretly So Practical

Here in New York, I shall be plagued by the elements for the foreseeable future. We hardly get the fun of snow anymore, which leaves us with the good old-fashioned biting cold, some occasional pouring rain, and the far more common winds off the East River that chill your bones to the core, requiring an immediate shower to warm up the second you step foot in your apartment.

As a result, this is the time of year when pure aesthetics aren't necessarily enough to get me excited about a purchase. I want my boots to low-key be waterproof without looking like I'm en route to Glastonbury. I want gloves that I don't have to take off to use my phone. I want chic alts to regular old puffer coats and knit beanies that will keep me feeling nice and warm and somewhat stylish when I'm braving the elements to walk my dog. If this is also you, please enjoy these chic winter buys —they're perfect for this season and secretly so practical.

Balaclavas and Scarves

When it comes to keeping your head cozy this season, there are two trending alternatives to a standard knit beanie. Balaclavas are back and every bit as snug as last winter, but my personal favorite winter trend this year is a knit triangle scarf tied under the chin.

Capes

Capes are such a big trend this winter, from draped coats with attached scarfs to blanket-like wool wraps. They're the perfect elegant touch to elevate an easy jeans outfit—I vote for adding a brooch for a little extra drama.

Leather Gloves

Gloves are a cold-weather nonnegotiable, but in leather and elbow-length iterations, they're also quite forward and chic.

Waterproof Footwear

If there's one thing I hate, it's wet socks and chilly feet, so low-key weather-ready footwear is one of my favorite winter purchases. No, waterproof doesn't have to mean rain boots—let's talk about secretly waterproof zip-front boots, on-trend leather loafers, and Gore-Tex sneakers in case you're feeling sporty.

Ultra-Thin Turtlenecks

Adding a thin turtleneck layer under another sweater or shirt is one of my favorite styling tricks for winter, whether it's a ribbed knit in a poppy color, a nearly sheer style in a fun print, or a chic neutral bodysuit for a layer guaranteed to stay tucked in and cozy.