The film A Christmas Story was not a family favorite, though my step-mom thought it was quite funny and I finally got to appreciate the hilarity in my early teens when I’d visit my dad and the three of us would have a movie night.  To celebrate the art of cold weather dressing (and to avoid what I dub Randy Syndrome), I present the cold weather ‘must have’ list for the ladies and gents.

The jumper. Besides your undies (which at this rate should be thermal), your best bet is to layer a tee (long or short sleeved, depending on your length of time outdoors) with a thin wool sweater.  Don’t be skeptical of this; a thick sweater can’t be layered and therefore your look becomes less accommodating. Pick a pullover like Uniqlo’s ladies v-neck or AllSaints Code merino crew for the boys.  Colors and designs are negotiable; dress in what you’re comfortable with; only for example’s sake have block colors been used (Gant Ruger’s Fairisle jumper is an excellent reference point for a patterned piece)

The scarf and gloves. These are so important; your hands are the first things to tell your age and any chill on your neck will stab you to the bones! Pick between a regular wrap or circle scarf; either design is appropriate for both genders (hullo andros), though my picks are multi tonal grey pieces as the circle melange from Alexander Wang or Diesel’s 3-Mobin scarf.  Remember, it’s all about a thick knit that will keep out blistering winds.  When it comes to gloves, we need fingerless designs for our touch screen smartphones and covers for when we’re not tapping.  The answer lies within fingerless foldover mittens; particularly Coal The Lena’s, American Rag’s Jacquard mittens and Fred Perry’s pair.

The beanie (or toque), and earmuffs. A thick knit head cover is a must in chilling winds; ears get so cold so quickly! Pick a beanie with a bobble (or without), like Billabong’s Session beanie (which was included in the ladies’ beanie picks list), or Topman’s Military Button for the gents.  Remember, intensely cold weather is no environment for trilbys or the like; they’ll only blow off your head and no warmth will be retained!

The trouser. Though your jeans may be your first pick, they aren’t actually going to be the warmest option.  I’ve picked up a pair of mens wool trousers while thrifting (a brilliant $7; all that was required as a tapering) and they kept me chill free during the winter winds.  I’d wholeheartedly recommend a pair for everyone this winter; pick your preferred cut and you’re off to the races! My favorites for the ladies are the Sketon wool trousers and Native Son’s slim suit pant for the boys.  Tip: If it’s really cold, have a pair of thin long johns underneath.

The boots and socks. Last of all we have the area which circulation loves to beat down the most.. lower calves and feet.  I love Roots wool socks, but since they don’t sell them online we’ll feature another style.  O’Hanlon Mills sockies are typically meant for boys, but who cares – they’re colorful, thick, warm and fun.  For boots, take a peek at the mens and womens lists; they each hold 9 different picks.