Building a winter wardrobe can be tricky because you want to have pieces that are both stylish and practical. But now that we’re in the middle of winter and you can expect more snow storms, it’s time to get practical for days that are just too cold – especially if you’re in Minnesota. Although I typically like to decide which investment pieces I need at the start of the season, it sometimes pays off to wait because retailers will start marking down their winter inventory now. Besides, there are some things you just have to have in order to get through the season, such as a heavy-duty warm coat, some statement outerwear pieces, layering options, and winter boots. Here are the best winter brands to invest in, which I continually wear each season.

Canada Goose

If you live somewhere where temperatures get well below freezing (like Minnesota), then investing in a high-quality winter parka is essential. There’s really no way around it, and you want to be sure that you’re getting outerwear that is built to last. Canada Goose has always been a leader in cold-weather garments. And in the realm of genuine down and fur parkas, I find them to be one of the most stylish and functional for men and women.

Woolrich

Woolrich is another brand that offers real fur and down coats that are guaranteed to look good and keep you warm. I’ve held onto mine for a long time now and it withstands the bitter cold each year. If you don’t like that casual parka look, they also have stylish layering pieces like checkered wool coats.

Burberry

Burberry is a timeless brand you can’t go wrong with – and you can wear many of the pieces year round. I always find the classic Burberry check print such a statement maker too. I adore my classic Burberry trench and ponchos. However, on super cold days, my Burberry cashmere scarf never fails to keep me warm.

Acne Studios

The key to winter fashion is layering! Acne Studios has been a long-time favorite of mine since the brand carries a ton of high-quality basics like sweaters and tees. They also offer a great lineup of stylish coats – I’m a huge fan of their shearling moto jackets and leather styles.

Free People

No winter wardrobe can function without cozy sweaters. And Free People is a mid-priced option that I love. Not only are their sweaters are just so comfy and stylish, but they fit great on me. I’ve owned several chunky sweaters and turtlenecks from Free People that I continue to wear throughout the years. So while $150 for just one sweater may seem pricey, it’s well worth it.

Sorel

As I’ve said many times before, shoes are one of the top items that I choose to invest in because it’s important to me to have options that will actually last. For winter, it’s good to have at least one pair of durable, waterproof boots. I swear by my Sorels. I’ve owned them for many years now and they’re still as great as when I first bought them.

Stuart Weitzman

For a more fashionable pair of shoes when I need to get dressed up, I love Stuart Weitzman boots. They make some of the most fashionable winter boots with traction for icy ground, as well as chic over-the-knee boots which are a perfect complement to any outfit. I’m so impressed by how well mine have held up, which is a true testament to the quality.

xo, Maria

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