Cold Weather Essentials

Unfortunately, it takes more than a cute pair of earmuffs to get through a New York winter. Bundle up but still look cool with these cold weather essentials: hats, scarves, boots and coats that are as functional as they are fashionable. We found the top-of-the-line picks – and some cheap chic substitutes – to get you through til spring.

Lots of practical-fashionable winter hats are available at Searle. Go the luxe route with this Paul Leinburd by Crown Cap Arctic Raccoon Hunter’s Hat ($498), which looks a lot like the fur hat Rihanna wore recently.

Fend off brutal windchill with a Paul Leinburd by Crown Cap Water Repellent Rabbit Lined Aviator Hat ($88), which does a great job for a much lower price.

The “sleeping bag coat” that originally started with Jil Sander may seem like a cliché by now, but it’s still the best way to stay warm without going the fur route. Update the look to a belted silhouette with this Ace Puffy Coat ($560) by Canadian brand Mackage.

This Postcard Fox Trimmed City Coat with Primaloft ($1,248) is body-skimming but super warm and also emphasizes the waist.

If you’re looking for a coat that’s inexpensive but warm, skip the cheapo flimsy stuff (rayon blends are not warm) and look for deals on Bluefly, where you can find this Michael Michael Kors Black Quilted Fur Trimmed Down Coat for $239 on sale.

Another source for bargains is a sports store like Paragon, which carries a few citified down coats like this Isis Snow Queen Coat ($299). Hoods are key for providing extra warmth and warding off sudden snow flurries.

Or you can update the puffer coat by doing it in winter white. The Mountain Hardwear Women’s Downtown Coat is $275 at EMS.

Of course, if the sky’s the limit, this fabulous Yves Salomon Parka ($1,370), lined head to toe with rabbit fur, just hit the shelves at Opening Ceremony.

There’s little more annoying in cold weather than gloves that leave your wrists exposed. Jas MB Slim Rib Gloves have downtown cool and go almost up to the elbow.

We’ve been seeing this look more and more: knee socks over leggings or tights. Because you can’t wear jeans for the entire winter. B. Ella Polka Dot Cashmere Knee Highs ($18).

The entire sleek, chic Uniqlo Heattech line is recommended. These tees, turtlenecks, long johns and more actually generate heat – keeping you warm in the draftiest room.

Beanie hats with pom poms are shaping up to be the folksy must-have hat of winter 2010, but they’re not much help if the wind can whip through the open knit. A fleece-lined knit hat like this North Face Elevation Pom Pom Beanie ($19.93 on sale) keeps you warm and in style.

A sheepskin scarf keeps you luxuriously warm in the worst weather – and you might not want to take this Topshop Mongolian Sheepskin Fur Scarf ($80) off once you get inside.

Snow happens. Get ready for it in advance with these cute shearling Born Kelly Boots ($170).

The best thing about these La Canadienne Tracy Boots ($298) is that you can almost pretend the weather isn’t crappy. Wear them with tights and a skirt on a slushy night out.

Circular, cowl scarves are another big trend for this winter. Channel a whimsical Scandanavian vibe with this Hollister Pom Pom Hooded Scarf ($15.90 on sale). The drawstring lets you pull it up around your face when the temperature drops.

Not surprisingly, a great source for hand knit cowl scarves is Etsy, where you can find The Urban Chic Extra Long Drop Scarf for just $43. Or if you’re feeling particularly crafty, knit your own with wool from Purl Soho and some ideas from Vogue Knitting – where many patterns are now available online.