If you live on the East Coast or even if you just plan on visiting the area sometime soon, now is the time to prepare your wardrobe. Speaking from experience, there's nothing quite like an East Coast winter. I spent my college years in Pittsburgh, followed by a stint in NYC, but the next seven years of my life were spent in sunny Los Angeles, where a major heat wave is not out of the question in December. In that time, I completely forgot what an East Coast winter entails, but since moving back two years ago, I've again realized how unique it is.
As you know, near-zero temperatures and snowstorms aren't out of the question on the East Coast, but much of the winter season consists of cold, wet rain and infrequent appearances from the sun. It sounds (and sometimes is) a bit miserable, but I've learned that with the right gear, the November to March months are considerably less painful, and you don't even have to resort to sacrificing style for warmth and comfort.
Read on to find out what you need to (stylishly) conquer an East Coast winter.
Nothing will keep you warmer and protect you from the elements better than a puffer, and luckily, they're cool now.
Aritzia Tna Park City Puffer ($195)
Ganni Fountain Contrast Trim Puffer Coat ($290)
Being caught without an umbrella during a winter shower is never a good idea. We suggest a clear bubble-style one so as not to cover up your cool outfit.
Totes Clear Bubble Umbrella ($26)
Hunter Original Bubble Umbrella ($60)
Heading out for a mid-winter workout class? The leggings you wore when it was 70 degrees out aren't going to cut it. Now is the time to invest in a cozy fleece-lined pair.
Plush High Waist Matte Fleece Leggings ($84)
Lane Bryant Fleece Leggings ($30)
Leave the heels at home when inclement weather is in the forecast, and put on a pair of warm, waterproof, and sleek boots.
Sorel Caribou Slim Waterproof Nubuck and Rubber Boots ($130)
Frye Valerie Lace Up Shearling Boots ($458)
If your feet are cold, everything will be cold, so get thee a pair of cute, cozy socks ASAP.
Ugg Uggpure Pompom Tall Rain Boot Sock ($50)
Hunter Fitted Boot Socks in Short ($25)
Reformation sells Patagonia pieces, and therefore, it's cool now. Regardless, the brand's fleece-lined pieces have always been perfect for both layering and lounging.
Patagonia Los Gatos Fleece Jacket ($129)
Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4 Zip Fleece ($99)
If you've ever been caught in a winter storm with a handbag that doesn't zip or doesn't have a flap, you know the importance of protecting the precious contents of your bag.
Staud Vitti Crushed-Velvet Tote ($475)
Prada Vela Mini Crossbody Backpack Bag ($950)
Unless you want to forgo a denim topper for a few months (which would be sad) swap out summer's denim jacket for an equally cool one lined in cozy sherpa.
Levi's Sherpa Trucker Jacket Plus ($98)
Madewell The Oversized Jean Jacket: Sherpa Edition ($175)
You're probably going to get tired of wearing pants all winter, so stock up on thick black tights to layer under your dresses and skirts.
Falke Warm Deluxe 80 Tights ($69)
Hue Thermalux Opaque Tights ($19)
Next up, shop our favorite winter coats from Zara.