As the last leaves fall and the trees turn bare (at least in cooler places), everyone will add more layers to their own style. Fall outfit essentials that consisted of light jackets and sweaters will either give way or be layered with heavier items to prepare for colder days. Jackets will be dusted off and brought out of closets as well as the heavier duty pieces: from scarves to thicker leggings and turtleneck sweaters. Many who love summer may not find the holiday season fun fashion-wise, but we're here to convince you that it is. Our first example is that of the newly popular sherpa. Yes, it's a jacket and covers the actual outfit underneath, but the style gods have turned jackets and outerwear into style statements themselves. And we're here for it. And the royals can look good bundled up and so can everyone else with the right pieces. Thankfully, Walmart has a ton and they're all affordable.
So what are winter essentials? Think about those layers that we mentioned earlier. There's long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, sweater dresses, cute booties, leggings, hoodies, puffy coats, and more. It seems like a lot, but consider them all opportunities to look super chic. And the best part is that its easy to do so. Unlike summer, where its hard to have staple items, the cold weather makes it easy. As long as you have the basic items, the winter season will be stress-free and fashionable. Those essentials basically include lighter jackets and puffier coats, shoes, pants, and sweaters. And yes, sherpas, too. Having one wouldn't hurt this season. (Looking for one? There are a few options here in addition to below.)
But the ultimate winter essentials are sweaters, and good thing, because there's a million different kinds so we can change it up. It makes sense. Sweaters are comfy and can dress an outfit up or down, so having options will make putting an outfit together in the winter much easier.
Long-Sleeved Color Block Tunic Shirt
Winter is chilly in most places in the US, but some places are colder than others. A long-sleeved tunic makes a useful layering piece, with a jacket or coat on top — or not.
Long-Sleeved Color Block Tunic Shirt ($18)
Pullover Fleece Sweatshirt
Speaking of warm and cozy, everyone should have at least one comfy fleece for the winter. This one comes in charcoal gray and is less than $10.
Hanes Pullover Fleece Sweatshirt ($8)
Stretch Jeans
Jeans are a closet staple all year, but when the temperature drops, a solid pair of jeans to get through the day or night is a must. These jeans will get the job done.
Just My Size Stretch Jeans ($21)
Double Knit Cardigan
Cardigans dress up an outfit and also provide another layer of warmth. This one comes in four different colors, has a pocket, and hits at the thigh.
Time and Tru Double Knit Cardigan ($23)
Soft Knitted Turtleneck Sweater
Sweaters can be warm and super chic at the same time, and this knitted turtleneck proves it. It's loose at the sleeves for a relaxed, cozy look.
Wodstyle Soft Knitted Turtleneck Sweater ($26)
Long Sleeve Leopard Coat
Leopard is the look of the year so far, and it has transitioned into this winter's pieces. This long-sleeved leopard coat has an open front, which will show off the outfit underneath.
Hirigin Long Sleeve Leopard Coat ($20)
Jacket With Faux Fur Hood
Heavier winter jackets are a necessity for colder climates, and while they can run super expensive, they don't always have to. This zip-front hooded one comes in at $40.
Time and Tru Coat With Faux Fur Hood ($40)
Long Sweater Dress
Being warm and fancy at the same time is possible with this longer sweater dress with a cowl-style neck. It has a relaxed fit and buttons on the sleeves.
Time and Tru Long Sweater Dress ($30)
Hooded Duster Cardigan
For a more casual cardigan look, this hooded duster cardigan is a pick. It also has two front pockets for snacks or stray Legos found around the house.
What's Next Hooded Duster Cardigan ($9)
Block Heel Bootie
Everyone should have a staple black bootie in the closest, especially during the winter. They dress up an outfit while keeping the feet warm.
Melrose Ave Block Heel Bootie ($31)
Fleece-Lined Relaxed Fit Pom Winter Hat
Some may dispute this, but hats can be part of an outfit. After all, they can totally change the look of an outfit. And yes, they also serve to keep the person wearing it warm.
Turtle Fur Fleece Lined Relaxed Fit Pom Winter Hat ($35)
Portland Boot Company Duck Boot
Snow boots are often overlooked, but having a pair can make super cold, snowy days easier to manage. It helps that these fashionable ones also look good with an outfit and can be worn indoors, too.
Portland Boot Company Duck Boot ($30)
Plaid Poncho
Ponchos are amazing because they're fashionable and warm. And unlike sweaters, they're easy to maneuver in. This one comes in two plaid patterns.
Plaid Poncho ($15)
Plush Vest
For an extra layer of warmth on top of a long-sleeve sweater, we suggest a vest. The Time and Tru vest is an extremely popular choice.
Time and Tru Plush Vest ($10)
Denim Jacket With Shearling Collar
Take the jean jacket game up a notch with a sherpa-lined denim jacket. It features buttons down the front and goes up to a size 3X.
Time and Tru Denim Jacket with Shearling Collar ($28)
Oversized Sherpa Coat
Of course we couldn't have a winter wear list without including a full-fledged sherpa. The oversized jacket is super cozy and features two front pockets.
Jason Maxwell Oversized Sherpa Coat ($29)
Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt Jacket
Activewear is becoming more like everyday wear, so having a hoodie is absolutely a winter essential. Wear it while running errands (no pun intended) or while on an actual run.
Sexy Dance Long Sleeve Sweatshirt Jacket ($19)
Fleece-Lined Full-Length Leggings
In the same vein as the pullover, these leggings are fully lined and perfect for any sort of outside activity. Pair them with a workout top or a long sweater.
Kuda Moda Fleece Lined Full Length Leggings ($7)
Pullover Hoodie
There's nothing like a big comfy hooded sweater on a cold day. This one comes in a wine and gray color.
Topcobe Pullover Hoodie ($19)
Knitted Sweater
This classic knitted winter sweater comes in a beautiful emerald green color, as well as red, gray, and tan. It has a high turtle neck for extra warmth.
Sexy Dance Knitted Sweater ($20)
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, CafeMom.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
