I grew up in a suburb outside of Chicago, which means that for the first 18 years of my life, I dealt with some of the coldest winters imaginable. Sure, it's mostly called the Windy City for its politics, but don't let that fool you into thinking that the weather isn't blustery, too. Because of that, I had to get creative when it came to dressing for the weather if I wanted to, at the same time, be conscious of style—not to mention my teenage budget. Suffice to say, I picked up a few things along the way.
From trusty Heattech from Uniqlo to knit socks meant to peek out from under your lug-sole boots, the winter shopping list ahead has everything you need for a stylish, warm, and expensive-looking cold-weather wardrobe. Even better, nothing on it is actually that expensive (to be exact, everything is under $150). So, before you go skimping on style in order to stay warm (or worse, spending the entire winter freezing because you want to look chic), shop the luxurious winter essentials ahead—none of which will break the bank.
Don't sleep on base layers.
Finding a beanie that looks luxurious for under-$100 is hard. And yet, here we are, showing you this one.
Wow, $40 two-tone mohair gloves? Yes, please!
Winter and ACNE Studios scarves go hand-in-hand.
Shop the matching Nary Relaxed Sweatpants ($100).
This is the perfect sweatshirt for when you want to look comfy and stylish for under $150.
I wish I was wearing these right now, TBH.
Yes, you read the price tag right.
Everything about winter fashion got better when shackets became a trend.
Shop the matching Drawstring Leggings ($89).
Just wait until you see the matching ribbed leggings.
Never say no to a fringe moment.
Balaclavas are a lifesaver when it gets really chilly. Plus, they are incredibly chic.
Of course we want to wear mittens made by the designer behind A$AP Rocky's Met Gala quilt.
Faux-leather puffers don't just look great—they feel great, too, especially in the freezing cold.
Winter is the perfect time to hop on board the Skims train.
There's arguably no clothing item more essential for winter than Heattech. Buy these in bulk.
Layering has never looked so cool.
This coat seriously looks like it costs $1000 or more.
How the French do winter in style.
It doesn't get more luxe than elbow-length leather gloves.
For years, I wore these under everything.
A trend-forward coat doesn't have to cost a ton.
Under-$150 cashmere? Now that's a steal.
Put this under every coat you wear this winter.
These aren't your average winter leggings.
Talk about a winter essential.
I can't think of anything better than when sweater season only costs $35. Can you?
If you live somewhere that gets cold, a puffer is a must.
A lot of people don't know that white shoes are actually great for the winter because they hide salt stains. You're welcome.
Put one of these onesies underneath anything you wear for an added layer of warmth. Then, once summer comes, where one on its own.
This neck gator gives the allusion of a knit polo–turtleneck hybrid.
Next, six fall layering hacks that will allow you to get the most from your wardrobe.
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