The time has arrived. We must begin planning our winter weather wardrobe.

If you’re a freeze-baby like me, you’ll want to take advantage of what I’ve learned about staying warm during Woodbury winters. We’re not talking Man Vs. Wild or any real survival skills here. Just some reasonable ideas to ensure you’ll shiver a bit less this season. You’re welcome.

Base Layer

Not just for mountaineering and winter camping. I wear a long-sleeved base layer almost every day from November to March. I’ve tried most varieties.

Silk is the softest and thinnest and therefore adds the least amount of bulk under clothes. But I disagree with conventional wisdom that silk is the warmest. I’ve found engineered materials like Cuddl Dudds to be warmest. I prefer the ActiveLayer variety with spandex for less bulk and great moisture wicking.

Socks/Leg Warmers  

Choose shoes made for socks, not bare feet or tights.

Fashion boots are the best way to sneak in pair of SmartWool socks, by far the warmest brand I’ve tried. As for boots, Uggs are the ugliest but the warmest. The latest fashion trends involve chunky socks or leg warmers worn above the boot line.

With this look, you can wear boots that actually look good and still have toasty toes.

Slippers

While you’re at it, grab a pair of fleece-lined slippers for stomping around the house. Just don’t forget you’re wearing them when driving your kids to school.

Ahem, it’s only happened like, well, a lot.

Great idea for guests: Keep a basket of assorted slippers and/or fuzzy socks near the door. That way, when company removes their shoes, they’ll have the option of not freezing their feet while at your house!

Scarves

Still fashionable and very warm. Watch this tutorial on different ways to wear them, and, well, wear them.

Gloves

Leather is my preference for driving.

When standing outside during sporting events, I’ll wear a pair of heavy gloves or mittens that I can stash a set of hand warmers into if need be.

Oh, and buy a box of hand warmers. Totally worth it if you’re going to spend any length of time outside.

Fleece

The miracle fabric that Muppets are made from.

A high pile fleece jacket in a variety of colors is uber-handy in winter. Buy the expensive North Face brand if you must. But less-expensive Columbia jackets are just as warm.

I do caution buying really cheap brands from discount stores. I’ve tried it and left a trail of tiny fleece bombs in my wake.

Down vs. Wool  

Outerwear matters. I used to think my wool pea coat was just as warm as down-filled outerwear. Wrong.

For ultimate warmth, score a down-filled jacket long enough to cover your seat. Tapered cuts and pretty colors will remind people that there is indeed a woman under there.

Hats

Invest in a hat that makes a statement. Sequins, pom-poms, fur. Be bold. You live in Minnesota. It’s cold here.

So step out loud and proud with an obnoxious hat that says, “That’s right, I’m warm.”

Static Guard

All this wool, fleece and fur may cause a few sparks to fly during what is not only the coldest—also often the driest—season in the northland.

Use fabric softener and keep a can of Static Guard in your closet to prevent missing socks from clinging to your backside.

Lint Rollers

While you’re at it, grab a pack of lint rollers at Sam’s Club. You’re going to need them… especially if you buy a cheap fleece jacket.

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