It's True—Everyone Is Wearing These Winter Essentials RN

Seeing as it's 20 degrees and snowing in NYC this week, I thought it was time to talk about what people are really wearing this winter—and not just in pictures. I'm talking cold-weather essentials that are functional but can still keep you looking chic when it feels nearly impossible. Whether your winter means low 20s or low 50s (like it used to for me in L.A.), the pieces below are versatile enough that they can still apply to anyone.

From bags and boots to sweaters and pants, today I've got you covered—both physically and metaphorically. In addition to showing you how fashion people are styling each item, I've also thrown in a couple of my favorites just in case you're in a "treat yourself" kind of mood. Ready to get started? Simply keep scrolling.

1. Jumbo Totes

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(Image credit: @modedamour)

Where else are you going to put your hat, scarf, and gloves once you arrive at your destination?

2. Maxi Skirts

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Maxi skirts have been looking so chic this season. I find myself coming across a new maxi-skirt outfit I love every day.

3. Lug-Sole Boots

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Even if you don't have slush to trek through, they just look right.

4. "Mob Wife" Coats

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(Image credit: @dinahansen)

If you've spent any time on the internet lately, you've already heard that the "mob wife aesthetic" is very much in, and the big fur coats are taking center stage.

5. Leather Gloves

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(Image credit: @juliesfi)

They're not just functional, they're fashionable.

6. Fitted Turtlenecks

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Nothing looks sleeker under what can often be many, many layers.

7. Fitted Knee-High Boots

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(Image credit: @christietyler)

There's something about this specific boot style that really has the fashion set in a chokehold this season.

8. Oversize Knits

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(Image credit: @hannahlewisstylist)

This one speaks for itself, but I'll remind you that when choosing your sweaters, don't be afraid to go big

9. Sheer Tights

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(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

I love them with everything from dresses and miniskirts to pants and maxi skirts. Even better when you can just catch a glimpse of the detail. 

10. Tailored Trousers

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(Image credit: @mcristinastyling)

While I will never turn my back on my beloved jeans, I do have to admit that tailored trousers—when styled properly—truly does elevate an outfit much more.

11. Loafers With Socks

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(Image credit: @kitkeenan)

It works with dresses, pants, and skirts, plus gives off Hailey Bieber vibes. What more can you ask for?

Editor-at-Large

Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2020, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch 90 Day Fiancé.