What’s in Your Winter Wardrobe?

It’s hard to believe we are well into November and the snow season is finally upon us. Stores are already stuffed with festive merchandise and blasting Christmas music. Still wearing your fall jacket? It’s time to brave the cold (and your bank account) and go shopping!

Keeping warm is one of the most important things to remember when dressing for Calgary’s winter. Don’t fret though; having harsh winters doesn’t mean having to sacrifice your style and look like a puffy snowman.

There are many great winter jackets on the market; it’s all about finding the one that’s right for you. Take a friend, make it into a fun shopping date it’s always good to get a second opinion, because different styles are more suited to different body types.

Personally, I’m a sucker for faux fur parkas, because I’m constantly freezing. Pictured below, I am wearing a gorgeous Laundry by Shelli Segal down parka that I found in Nordstrom last winter. I’m all about a good deal, so I toughed it out for half the winter in my old jacket before snatching this beauty mid-season on sale for $130.

The down makes it incredibly warm, and I instantly fell in love with the detailing. An elasticated belt with gold fastening clip gives the jacket added shape and edge, whilst the faux fur neckline provides a beautiful contrast in colour and texture.

Not into parkas? How about trying one of this season’s hottest trends, the reefer jacket. Based on the U.S. navy’s double-breasted coat, this jacket is popular among both men and women and instantly adds class to any outfit. H&M has a wide selection of colours for just $50, or if you’re looking to splurge a little more, the all-new Balmain X H&M collection has a stunning wool blend pea coat for $199.

Another coat that’s popular this winter is the faux shearling style. This imitation sheepskin is not only warm, but also lovely and fluffy. It’s probably not as good of an option as your main winter jacket, but a great choice as we are transitioning into the colder days (or a good choice if you are going out but will be indoors). Urban Outfitters has quite the selection of these jackets, ranging from $99 for a shearling vest to upwards of $170 for a coat. H&M also has a short faux shearling coat now on sale for $75 down from $150.

Now you’ve got your jacket sorted, it’s time to shop for the rest of your winter wardrobe essentials. We all know winter days can be long and dreary and when the landscape is bleak, it’s important to brighten your world in other ways (a.k.a. your closet items). Be bold! Go for that mustard yellow jumper! Look for ways to add a pop of colour to your outfit and stand out against the snow. If you’re not the adventurous type when it comes to colourful clothes, step out of your comfort zone with a less obvious item like a hat or gloves.

In my second look, I’m pictured wearing a golden yellow jumper available from H&M for $30 and a COAL uniform cuff beanie in burgundy, available from Zumiez for $22. Knits are all the rage this winter, and rightfully so! Whether it’s a high neck jumper, a wooly scarf or cozy socks, you’re going to want to stock up on this fabric. Blast some Taylor Swift and shake, shake, shake off the winter blues – embrace the colour and have fun!

Just like I said in my fall fashion column, layer up! It’s even more important in the winter, because you’ll be going from one extreme (minus 35 degrees Celsius standing at the bus stop) to the other (plus 35 degree Celsius in the university building). You want to be able to add or remove layers as and when necessary.

One of my new closet favourites is the visible seam knit jacket from Zara for $70, pictured in my third look. It’s almost floor length and is super cozy for the winter months! I was pleased to discover the material is really soft, which is an added bonus because some knitwear can be pretty scratchy and aggravate sensitive skin. I love the zipper on this jacket, which only runs down a portion of the middle, unlike other jackets where the zipper goes right down. It’s a nice little touch and allows the material to flow more freely and create shape. The slitted sleeve cuffs are another detail I adore and also look great folded back.

Shopping this season doesn’t mean having to break the bank. There are plenty of options for different budgets, so hurry on down to your local mall today and beat the massive snow dump, because it’s on its way Calgary – and you want be to be ready and looking your best when it arrives!