Over the years, I’ve endured pretty much every possible curve ball mother nature can throw at you while commuting to work.  With sub-zero temps just around the corner here in NYC, I thought it was the perfect time to share the top five winter essentials that get me through the season. Not only will these 5 items be the biggest game-changers for your commute (pinky promise), but they will also make for amazing holiday gifts!!

1. Earmuffs (with built-in headphones!)

My friends, these earmuffs are GOLD.  No more “would you rather” games with yourself, vis-a-vis listening to your favorite podcast or avoiding frostbitten ears.  Whether you like the earmuff look or not (I happen to LOVE them!), they are the best cold-weather head gear option for commuting to work because they don’t destroy your hair.  But if you’ve ever worn earmuffs, you know the struggle of inserting headphones into your ears and then layering the earmuffs over them is very real.  Since these earmuffs have built-in headphones, you now have the whole two birds, one stone thing going for you.  Your hair looks perfect upon arrival to the office and you haven’t missed a podcast.  The earphone cord is detachable, so you can always revert back to vintage earmuffs if you want to be unplugged on the way to work.  I’m wearing these in black (which also come in chestnut and grey!), but I also love this furry style and these textured knits!  I also recently found out about Rebecca Minkoff’s beanie headphones and am dying to try them as well…

 

2. Weatherproof Boots

A pair of weatherproof boots that don’t look like you’re preparing to hike Mt. Everest is essential for those of us who commute to the office in snow and ice.  Enter Aquatalia boots, a hero brand in my book that has legitimately bridged the gap between style and function.  Not only do they look stylish, but they are also completely waterproof  and the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn.  Their super padded insoles makes you actually feel you’re walking on a cloud. I’m wearing the “Janie” block heel booties in the photos today (also available here and here!), but also have these sleek Chelsea boots in my shopping cart.  Check out all of their gorgeous styles of boots and regular footwear here!

 

3. Classic Black Wool Coat (50% off!)

Every working girl needs a classic black wool or cashmere coat that goes with everything.  I alway love military-inspired double-breasted buttons, but the midi length is key.  With a mid-calf length, you can pair it perfectly with any length dress or skirt, and it also looks killer with pants.  Pro tip: Don’t be fooled by a cute cut and tempting price tag!  Be sure the coat is made of over 50% wool and/or cashmere if you want to actually stay warm.  This Ralph Lauren coat, this similar Mackage beauty and this beautiful Vince Camuto coat all fit the bill and are all almost 50% off!

 

4. Leather Tech Gloves

There’s no question that leather gloves look more polished and professional than their knit counterparts, but they’re also much warmer and more durable.  These tech-friendly gloves not only look great, but all ten fingers will work on your touchscreen phone.  The gloves I’m wearing come in seven different sizes, are genuine leather, lined with cashmere, and if the regular price isn’t shockingly reasonable enough, they’re currently 40% off during Nordstrom’s Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend sales.  I wore mine every single day last winter and have already purchased three more pairs!

 

5. Fur Stole / Scarf

Your winter work wardrobe isn’t complete without a good scarf to stay warm on the way to the office.  While I love scarves for their ability to add interest to a classic coat, my winter MVP is a fur stole or scarf (how adorable is this one?!).  A black or neutral fur stole not only goes with absolutely everything, but it dresses up your look and also really ups the ante when it comes to warmth.  Nothing feels better on brutally cold winter days than that fuzzy goodness tucked right up under your chin!!