Winter may be approaching, but for those of us who live in milder climates, the changing seasons dont demand Gore-Texand layers of insulation.If the harshest weather you have to plan for is a chilly bite in the morning air and the occasional rain, winter streetwear can be simplified to a good flannel, a comfy sweater, a couple of jackets, and some water-resistant footwear.
These eight womens apparel pieces, tested on the Southern California coast, are perfect for everyday wear in places where winter is an excuse to cozy up, not a reason to bundle up.
Stetson Kelso Outdoor Hat ($90)
Just because temperatures are dropping doesnt mean you should stop thinking about sun protection. Shield your face with the wide-brim Stetson Kelso, which is crushable and water-resistant. Conscious shoppers will appreciate the faux leather bandand the fact that all Stetson hats are made in the USA. Its sturdy, 100 percent wool constructionhas made it our go-to work hat this season.
Finisterre Solus Waterproof Parka ($298)
Based out of Cornwall, England, Finisterre knows how to build gear for the cold, but we really like its progressive approach to sustainable production. The Solus parkais free of fluorocarbons (these chemicals are what make traditional DWRs harmful to the environment) and made with 100-percent recycled polyester insulation. This lightweight jacket is the perfect waterproof companion for a wet winter. We wore it on long walks through early-season rainstorms and stayed bone dry.
Topo Sherpa Jacket ($149)
It seems like every brand has a Sherpa jacket this season, but Topos reversible oneis our favorite. We love wearing the fleece on the outside, then flipping to theDWR-treated windbreaker fabric when weather rolls in.The front hem is scallopedand the cut is a bit cropped, so the Sherpais best worn with high-waisted pants to keep the chill off your torso. And theboxy cut means you can fit a chunky sweater underneath.
Mollusk Teddy Sweater ($140)
The only problem with Mollusks Teddy sweateris that youll want to wear it every day. The cropped cut is flattering, and the wool-Alpaca blend is extra plush. Thanks to the high neck and a little extra length in the sleeves, you can wear a base layer (likeSmartwool Intraknit Merino 200)underneath without it showing through the collar or cuffs.
Patagonia High Fjord Flannel Shirt ($89)
With way too many plaid flannels in the closet, we were looking for a warm button-down thats slightly elevated from the lumberjack look. The Patagonia High Fjord flannelis made from 100 percent organic cotton and comes in white, plum, and a number ofplaids.
Amuse Society Good Company Pants ($75)
When its chilly but not freezing, rock a pair of cropped pants. These high-waisted corduroysfrom Amuse Society will keep you snugglyyet airywith a wide-legankle cut.
Topo Mountain Socks ($22)
Favorite. Socks. Ever. Topos wool Mountain socksare thick, warm, and comfortable. Were as happy hiking in them as we are sleeping them, and we love the Funfetti-likemarl. Weve been wearing them for three months straight with many washes, and they show no signs of wearing out. Buy a few pairs for yourself and throw a couple more in the shopping cart for stocking stuffers.
Vans Ultrarange 3D Chelsea Boots ($100)
The traditional Chelsea boot meets Vansscasual-cool sensibility in the Ultrarange 3D Chelsea, a boot-sneaker combo thats perfect for casual hikes andcruising around town. The neoprene collar and jacquard pull tabs make these easy to take on and off for surf sessions, and a water-resistant suede upper makes them a good choice forwet ormuddy weather.