CREDIT: CANDIS BROSS
A scarf and touchscreen gloves are only two necessities for a freezing day.

Winter is finally upon us, and let’s be honest, it sucks. Anyone that tells you they enjoy this endless tirade of snow and cold we’ve been experiencing is definitely a liar. In the words of George Costanza, “I would drape myself in velvet if it were socially acceptable.” Although velvet is warm, the social acceptance of velvet is still widely debated.

In -20 degree weather, Mother Nature starts to get the best of you. You start to think, “Who cares? I’m wearing sweatpants everyday.” That’s just what the bitch wants. Don’t let her win.

Here are eight essentials to come out of winter on top:

Earmuffs/cute headbands

Hats are so passé. Earmuffs and headbands keep your ears warm without messing up your sock bun game.

Tall boots

Functional and fashionable, tall boots can make any outfit look instantly chic. With so many different styles and colors available, tall boots keep your feet dry in style. Pair with leggings and a sweater dress or a great pair of jeans and a blazer – the possibilities are endless.

Leg warmers

Not just for ‘80s themed parties, leg warmers are great for adding extra warmth to your fashion boots. Not only do they keep you warm, leg warmers also create a better fit for your boots. After months of wear, boots that were once tall become slouchy and sloppy. Leg warmers help fill the extra space, allowing the boots to stay up on your leg.

Shoe polish

Trekking through snow, slush and salt for months on end really takes a toll on your boots. No matter how many times you wipe them down with a wet cloth, that annoying salt stain isn’t going anywhere. Enter shoe polish. All it takes is a little polish, a polish brush, an old sock and some elbow grease to take your boots from drab to fab. Or you can commandeer and older relative to polish your boots for you — they probably know what they’re doing.

Scarves

Scarves are a magical thing. They can transform any basic outfit into an ultra-chic look and can also double as a blanket when you’re freezing your butt off in class.

Athletic leggings

Leggings and comfy sweaters are a go-to during the winter months. But let’s be real: regular leggings are way too thin for -20 degree weather. Ladies, do yourselves a favour and invest in some athletic leggings. Athletic leggings are made from a thicker, better quality material. Not only are they warm, but they’re durable, too. Tucked into a pair of boots, no one will ever know you’re wearing gym pants.

Comfy sweaters/sweater dresses

These are a staple in the fall and winter months. Comfy sweaters are so versatile – they can be paired with leggings or jeans. With so many styles and textures, your wardrobe will never be boring. Sweater dresses are also a great way to look comfortably chic. Pair with leggings or tights and tall boots for an effortlessly put-together winter look.

Touchscreen Gloves

These are a necessity if you don’t want to expose your delicate hands to the cold, frigid air that is our winter every time your phone buzzes. Touchscreen gloves are not thought to be a fashionable choice, but these gloves have evolved from simple black gloves with metallic fingers; they now come in so many different colors and styles, no one will know you are wearing them. Touchscreen gloves save lives, people.

Incorporate these essentials into your wardrobe, and you’ll survive winter – fashionably.