I Tried on the 15 Top-Rated Winter Items From Amazon—Here's What I Kept

If you're going into the New Year with a more intense shopping budget than usual, you're not alone. I'm a designer-clothing addict, but I am planning a lot of travels and weddings so will need to spend my money wisely this year. So far, tapping into my favorite affordable fashion sites has been such a joy because you can buy so much more and not feel guilty for your spending. We all know money can't buy style. Being a true fashionista means that you can look your best at any price point. That's why I'm challenging myself to explore more budget-friendly sites this year, and the first up is Amazon.

There are so many great finds on Amazon, but it can be so overwhelming to simply head to the site and type into the search bar what you are looking for. There seems to be an endless number of options, and sometimes, the good things are several pages in. It's my job to shop, so I spent several hours browsing the millions of products on the site with the hopes of being able to report back to you all on what is worth actually buying. To be honest, I didn't have high expectations, but I was so impressed by the quality of the items that ended up being winners. I've always known Amazon to be a trend-driven retailer, but my picks are actually items that I'll be wearing for years to come. After I tried on 15 items, there were six true standouts that I can genuinely vouch for. Scroll on to find your favorite.

The Item:

The Drop Hayley Half Zip Fleece Sweatshirt

My review: As pictured, this is the first moment I tried the sweatshirt on, and I didn't take it off for the rest of the day. It became my new favorite WFH essential very quickly. I'm not exaggerating when I say it rivals many of the designer sweatshirts in my closet given how soft it is. Half-zip pieces are a trend to be taken seriously right now, so if you only buy one thing from this story, make it this one. 

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The Item:

The Drop Avalon Small Tote Bag

My review: My first thought when I saw this item was that it would be the perfect travel bag. When it arrived, it was laid completely flat, and that caused no damage to it at all. I'll certainly be taking it on my next trip because it's such an elevated black bag. The quality of the leather is quite nice, so people will be asking where you got it from.

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The Item:

The Drop Side Button Cropped Turtleneck Sweater

My review: You could sell me this for $150, and I'd never have known it was from Amazon. The quality, again, is so good for such an affordable find. The buttons on the side were an impressive added touch that made this one feel chicer. And if you haven't noticed, there's a trend here. It appears items from The Drop were of the best quality, so I'll definitely be shopping that brand from Amazon more in the future.

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The Item:

The Drop Avery Square Toe Heeled Sandal

My review: Okay, I know that these aren't very winter-friendly, but so many people have vacations on their calendars that I thought I'd also try on a pair of summer shoes. I often feel unstable in heels, but these felt quite supportive and comfortable. They made my jeans-and–a-sweater looks feel all dressed up, so I'll definitely be wearing them for my winter travels and beyond.

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The Item:

Hima Real Fox Fur Winter Earmuff

My review: I got compliments immediately when I wore these for the first time, so they're certainly a keeper. Currently, I don't leave the house without seeing this accessory everywhere, so taking them out during this past weekend's snowstorm was a good idea. I never feel as cute in my winter outfits when I'm wearing a beanie, but these earmuffs made me feel so good and warm. Plus, they're made of real high-quality fur—I was instantly sold.

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The Item:

Orolay Trench Coat Lapel Jacket With Belt

My review: As far as trench coats go, this one is a hit. Effortless outerwear is essential and is guaranteed to have a big moment in 2022, so it's a great item to have on hand at all times. The buttons are such a pretty tortoiseshell color, and there were so many other outstanding details that I loved.

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Shop Best Sellers That Are Next on My List

Up Next: As Soon as I Saw the New Zara Shoe Drop, I Texted My Friends—29 Pairs We Love

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.