The calendar says spring has arrived but the weather says winter. Based on today’s weather, you’d never know that it is the second day of spring. There are kids shoveling snow and others walking by with sleds. While many other people are talking about the latest spring fashions, I thought I would say farewell to winter weather by sharing the items that I have worn non-stop during our never-ending winter. While I love cold weather and appreciate and enjoy experiencing all four seasons, after growing up in the perpetually warm and humid Savannah, Georgia, I’m ready to say farewell to my winter wardrobe. In fact, if you follow along on my daily Instagram stories, then you will most likely recognize many of these items especially the tops and coats.
One of the downsides to simplifying my life and wardrobe is that I now have far fewer clothes in my closet. As I scroll through Instagram photos or our family photo stream, it is clear that I played favorites this season, even within my smaller wardrobe, and wore the below ten items on repeat. I am ready to say hello to short sleeves, skirts, dresses and vibrant colors as soon as spring appears in Brooklyn. But, until then, since there are lots of end of season sales taking place right now, I thought it would be helpful to share the 10 items I wore non-stop this winter in case you want to stock up for next year.
Barbour Beadnell Polarquilt Jacket – Even though I’ve owned this coat for more than a year, this was the first year I could wear it as I purchased it when I was unknowingly pregnant with Katie. It became an instant favorite this year for warmer winter days and was worn on repeat when the weather was below 50 degrees and above 30. It has large pockets that easily fit my cell phone, keys and credit card while the second set of front pockets are hand pockets – perfectly angled and lined with fleece to keep my hands warm on cold days.
L.L. Bean Cozy Pullover – I wish I had purchased this sweatshirt in multiple colors as I’ve worn the spruce heather at least twice a week since receiving it in November. Clearly I’m not the only person who fell head over heels for this sweatshirt as every color in my size is back-ordered until late April. It isn’t loose and baggy like most sweatshirts, instead it has a slimming cut and the hip length is perfect for wearing it with jeans or leggings. The thumb holes were an added bonus that I discovered after ordering it and the front pocket has been perfect for holding Katie’s toys or pacifier when we’re out and about.
9′ high-rise toothpick jean in classic wash – These jeans have been a blessing for my post baby as the higher rise and stretch allow me to wear the jeans confidently without being uncomfortable all day. The cut and dark color accentuate and flatter my long legs while I also appreciate that they come in petite, regular and tall.
Sorel Joan of Arctic Cold Weather boots – I bought these five years ago when we moved abroad and just today did I notice that they are starting to show some wear and tear. These waterproof boots are perfect for snowy days as they keep my feet and calves dry and warm while also providing traction that makes me feel safe and secure even when I’m wearing Katie. I find that these run a bit small especially considering how thick most winter socks are so I would recommend ordering a size larger.
Sorel Nakiska Suede Slippers – Since I work from home, I spend more time in slippers than the average person. In fact, I wore out these amazing slippers in two years and received a new pair for Christmas. Unlike most slippers, these have a sole that provides arch support and the rubber bottom provides traction on our slippery, wooden stairs. The only down side to these slippers is that the wool lining keeps feet nice and cozy, which makes them more appropriate for cooler months than year round.
J.Crew Dreamy Stripe Pajamas – After buying one pair of these pajamas in gray and white I loved them so much that I bought a second pair in navy and white and have worn them almost exclusively all fall and winter. Since I have a short torso and long legs, most pajama pant sets don’t fit properly. These pajamas not only are long enough but they are also the softest pajamas I’ve found. The fit is definitely loose and I sized down in my second pair after finding that my regular size was a bit baggier than I preferred.
Tissue Turtleneck – Every year J.Crew factory sells this turtleneck in multiple patterns and colors but this year the black and white stripe was my favorite. It’s a perfect weight for layering thanks to the lighter weight and slim fit. I own four of these turtlenecks and wear them alone and under blazers, jackets or sweaters. They wash and dry well in the washer, are thick enough to not show bra lines and don’t shrink. If you want a looser fit, order a size larger than normal as they are pretty snug.
Merino Wool Sweater Blazer – Available on both J.Crew and J.Crew Factory sites this has been one of their most popular items this season. A great classic that can easily be dressed up or down, I love that this one cotton which means it is machine washable and far cheaper than the J.Crew version which is merino wool. It runs a bit large so I recommend ordering down one size but otherwise this has been a great staple this season and has been worn to both the farmer’s market on weekends and client meetings during the week.
Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket – This water resistant, down jacket is a lot warmer than it looks! I’ve only worn my long, down coat a few times this season as this coat has been heavy enough to keep me warm most days, including during today’s snowstorm. The coat is more fitted than some winter coats which makes it very flattering. It is light and easily rolled up or stuffed into my purse and diaper bag but once I put it on it’s so much warmer than expected. It is definitely an upgrade versus my long, down coat which I lovingly call my wearable sleeping bag.
Sarah Marie Design Studio Sweatshirt – The saying on the sweatshirt makes it fun while the fit and cozy factor make it a winter time essential especially when I’m relaxing on the couch or hanging out with Katie. Every time I wear it I get comments from people on the street or Instagram as the struggle to get out of bed is very real. The fleece sweatshirt is so soft that I’ve actually worn it to sleep during colder winter nights. But, typically I wear it to and from workouts, relaxing at home or running errands. An added benefit is that Sarah Marie Design Studio is a small business and you’re supporting a fellow runner and designer by purchasing through her online store.
