Image via Complex Original
We can’t quite put our finger on it, but there is something innately different about a city winter. The snow falls beautifully on building facades and sidewalks, and then disappears—or morphs into slush—as the streets become inundated with people and vehicles. Or there’s the cold that can quickly turn to warmth depending on how many people join you in a crowded area. No matter what a city winter may bring, good or bad, a new season is an opportunity to refresh your gear. Though it may be hard to have swag when you’re shivering profusely, don’t put baby (a.k.a. your style) in the corner just because it’s a little nippy outside. Instead, follow this illustrated guide to braving a city winter in style.
Illustrations by Greg Matesich
Uniqlo Heattech Knitted Cap
Whether we actually lose more heat from our head than anywhere else may or may not be true, but one thing is damn sure—we have to keep our domes covered properly during a city winter. The operative word is “properly,” because so many people think their knitted cap is doing their head justice in both style and protection. Uniqlo’s Heattech Knitted Cap actually does that, using their own technology and blended wool to insulate your body heat while looking good.
Engineered Garments 13oz Wool Willy Pants
If Santa Claus lost a bunch of weight, got rid of the red get-up, and hired a stylist after he moved to the big city, he would most def be wearing these Engineered Garments 13oz Wool Willy Pants. Granted, you can’t personally put a smile on every child in the world as he can, but a thick pair of tapered wool trousers could definitely put a smile on your own face.
Vans Suede Fleece Sk8 His
Yes, boots will keep your feet warm in the cold, but occasionally at a cost. Most hard-toe shoes are just not conducive to comfort, especially if you’re walking around the city all day. But, want to know what is? Soft-as-Charmin Vans Sk8 Hi’s with pig suede outers and a sherpa-fleece lining that’ll feel like walking on warm, puffy clouds all day. Your feet deserve that kind of love.
Abasi Rosborough Orison Coat
Layering is the key to winter style, and having a camel hair overcoat is an absolute must. Now, which one you choose is a whole different story. The long, two-way zipper closure and belted Orison Coat from Abasi Rosborough is a solid choice. It may run you a couple paychecks, but knowing you are protected for the season and also possess the ultimate Instagram #winterflex will pay it back in spades.
Norse Projects Sigurd Scarf
You have a predicament. Your face is, like, really, really cold, but your sensitive skin won’t tolerate those cheap wool scarves. If you don’t want to spend lots of dough, Norse Projects may hold the solution with their virgin wool Sigurd Scarf. It’s super soft, super warm, and super not expensive. You owe it to your face.
Our Legacy Heavy Terry Turtleneck Sweater
Turtlenecks are no longer for your ninth-grade history teacher or Uncle Lenny, though he is cool as hell. Our Legacy’s version is the epitome of one of today’s hottest trends. Made of a warm cotton terry, it’s the perfect pullover for cold weather treks in the concrete jungle.
Patagonia Midweight Snow Socks
Wearing warm, winterized socks doesn’t mean you have to wear shoes 1.5 sizes too big. Patagonia’s Midweight Snow Socks are made of merino wool that holds in the heat without all the unnecessary padding. So, if you want to stunt in your size 10 Yeezy Boosts, you won’t have to plan on picking up an 11.5 for the winter, too.
Rains MSN Bag
You run around the city daily with precious electronic cargo. But, you can’t expect your laptop and tablet to be protected in some rag-tag bag when the elements are falling from the sky, can you? The Rains MSN Bag has a nice, big, water-resistant compartment to hold and protect your valuables. Knowing your babies are safe is all the satisfaction you need in this world.
J.Crew Cashmere-Lined Touchscreen Gloves
It’s insane how we walk around in freezing temperatures, looking down at our phones for completely unnecessary reasons. Yet, here we are. All of us. At least do it in style, with J.Crew’s cashmere-lined, touchscreen-sensitive leather gloves.