My Favorite Warm Wooly Layers

It’s been a cold and snowy start to the year and come February I just want my clothes to keep me warm and dry. New Englanders are notoriously practical in their approach to clothing but I’ve never been a fan of wearing tech fabrics as day-to-day attire. Sure I have a ski jacket and snow pants for outdoor activities but I prefer to wear natural fibers even on the coldest days. Wool and cashmere provide warmth while also being breathable, and look a bit more elevated than performance apparel. Here are my top tips and personal favorite pieces for warm winter layers without the puffer coat.

Start with a well made wool coat. A wool wrap coat might be my favorite winter layer as they usually have a relaxed fit that works well over thicker base layers, plus the cross-over front and tie waist keep in heat. A camel coat specifically will never go out of style (I’ve had the one above for over 5 years!) and last you for decades to come. Find a fantastic edit of wool wrap coats at every price point here!
Double up on sweaters. Layering a thin wool or cashmere turtleneck (less expensive version here) under another sweater is like a scarf and thermal layer in one. I’ve done this for years and it’s so much warmer than wearing a crewneck sweater + scarf and not nearly as bulky. (Some coat necklines just don’t work well with scarves!) I can go on long snowy walks or spend a day skiing in this combo, and own cashmere turtleneck sweaters in almost every neutral hue for this very purpose!
Opt for leather gloves with a cashmere lining. While I find mittens are usually warmer than gloves, gloves feel chicer. I own and love this pair in brown and black so they’ll always match my footwear.
Top off your look with a natural fiber hat like wool or cashmere. If you’re looking for a chic winter look I like a simple beanie in a solid color, and save the pompom hats for the ski slopes, sled hills or woodland walks.
Merino wool leggings are your best friend – sneak in a cozy layer under your pants with merino leggings – thin and cozy these will help keep out the winter wind.
Wear your warmest, most practical boots. When you’re walking through snow or slush there’s really no way around it, you need footwear that can stand up to water, snow and salt. I live in these shearling lined bean boots on snowy days, and when paired with wool socks there’s nothing warmer!