Winter is coming: layers and other cold weather trends

Lets all just wave goodbye to summer and fall! It's a sad thought but winter is coming (Hi there Game of Thrones fans!). Living in Buffalo, New York during the winter has taught me so much.

1. How to properly layer.

2. You should be outside shoveling while its still snowing before it gets too deep and heavy.

3. Snow tires should be on your car by mid October.

4. Invest in a car starter so you can defrost your windshield while having your morning coffee.

5. Hats and mittens need to be functional along with being a fashion statement.

Now that I've passed on some valuable information it's time to enlighten your moldable minds on layering...the most important thing! Starting at our feet you MUST invest in top quality boots! If you have cold wet feet then your entire day will be botched. I personally have gor-tex, thinsulate, boots from L.L. Bean. This is another company that has life time warranty. This is the route to go because you have a one lifetime investment on a high quality product. L.L. Bean boots do run big, I wear a size 9 shoe regularly and I had to go down a full size for these boots to fit properly. Along with boots invest in smart wool (or like product) socks to keep your feet warm.

Boots: https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/630?page=footwear-womens-footwear&nav=ln-474&csp=f

Socks: https://www.smartwool.com

Moving on my must have, ride or die, base layer to keep my legs warm are fleece lined leggings. They aren't too thick so you can wear them under your jeans. No need to sacrifice your cute outfits because it's winter! You can pick up a pair of these from basically anywhere. Walmart has a good price and once it starts to get cold they have them on their shelves.

Leggings: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Women-Warm-Thick-Fleece-Fur-Lined-Thermal-Leggings-Solid-Stretch-Winter-Pants/979166230

What you wear on top is all about preference. I like to have a long sleeve shirt underneath my sweater. They don't call it sweater wether for nothin'. The past few years ugly sweaters have been a fad, I'm not sure when it will fade but instead of spending mucho dinero on ugly sweaters from name brand stores you can easily go to the Salvation Army and find ugly sweaters galore. The most expensive sweater I've ever purchased from there was for $20 and it was a Ralph Lauren. There are some to die for finds at the Salvation Army and Good Will so don't knock it until you try it. Also if you are an environmental junkie you can reduce your carbon footprint by buying second hand.

Along with having good base layers you must invest in a coat. Look to purchase an elegant, timeless style so you can wear it for years to come. I personally have a peacoat which is extremely warm and fashionable. This is your outermost layer so get fun with it! Get something in a bright color to show the world how unique you are. My peacoat is again from L.L. Bean, and is raspberry pink. I usually pair it with an assortment of accessories, hats, mittens, leather gloves, scarves and a pin in the lapel to add some extra flare. When it comes to material for your coat look for something that is water resistant. Down is great for keeping you warm but when it gets wet you will also be cold and wet.

Coat: https://www.llbean.com/llb/search/?freeText=winter+coat&init=1&sort_field=Relevance&thumbType=0&gnattr=-1&bc=

Your accessories are where you can show your individualism. Especially if you opted for a more plainly colored coat. Try matching hat and mittens with your favorite color or animal on them. Or a homemade hat is adorable to show your mom that you appreciate her tender love and care.