Staying Warm Outside the Norm

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When most people think of this city they picture an eclectic melting pot of unique style and wondrous swagger. Many choose to express themselves through the things they wear so I'm going to try and suggest some outerwear that strays away from the traditional scarf and hat.

As an avid knitter, you can gauge the trends for the season by blog hopping and checking out what everyone's knitting. This winter has to be the year of the cowl. They work because they're short, sweet and simple. You don't have to worry about it accidentally getting caught in a subway door and strangling you half to death (sheesh). They can be chic and casual or wacky and whimsicle. They're my favorite line of defense for covering the nose to the neck region.
Leaves of Grass Cowl by Knitting Guru


For those of us that don't mind items close on our necks, the scarflet works just as well as the cowl at staying warm and toastie. Sometimes a vintage button can be the perfect touch to complete any outfit. Cappuccino Cozy by Knitting Guru
Speaking of tight fitting, lets say that you hate hats that constrict your head but you still want to cover those ears. I found these retro hoods in Better Than Jam's shop and I think they add that extra kick to any wardrobe Red Hood by Better Than Jam
For some odd reason, only parts of my body seem to get cold most often. My head is always hot and my nose is always cold but when I'm at my day job plugging away on my keyboard, I notice my wrist do get kinda drafty. If you're like me, then you'll love these cute little cuffs found in Shutterkate's shop. They're like jewelry that does double duty giving you that nice and cozy feeling Upcycled Wrist Cuff by ShutterKate/Knitstorm

Say you're looking for something really off the wall, you want to shock and surprise, why not try a scarf of sausage links or an old school ascot? New Yorkers ususally don't point and stare but you never know, wearing these items may lead to some very interesting conversations.I hope you all found something that may have you rethinking the New Yorkers uniform of a plain black hat and scarf. Think about spicing it up for the new year with something bright and fun! Who says everything has to be all matchy matchy? Why not stay warm and live outside the norm!

-Chante
Preview of my new hats that I will be offering in my shop next week to help brave the cold.

How a California Girl Survives a New York Winter

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Moving across the country from Sunny California to Snowy Upstate New York was quite an experience. I still recall my now husband teaching me to tie on a scarf that first snowy winter.

Well I’ve come a long way in the almost 8 years I’ve lived in New York. I’m sure you born and bred New Yorkers learned all of this from your mother’s milk. This is for the rest of us.


Layers

Probably the most important thing I ever learned: How to put on about 50 more layers than anyone would notice. Thin soft layers underneath all leading towards the big chunky ones on the outside.

These fingerless gloves are perfect for finding your metrocard or keys without talking off your mittens, from ShutterKate.

My natural proclivity is to wear dark melancholy colors to match the landscape and sky (especially here in NYC), but my mood suffers. I try to brighten my day with brightly colored scarves and hats.

Like this bright pink Cowl from SpattersandJayne.


Moisturizing

I hate high maintenance. I’m not awake enough in the mornings to do all that. But I never leave the house on a cold day without moisturizing, especially my face, hands, and lips.

I love that these lotion jars are the right size to fit in my purse to keep my hands nice all day, from Nordea’s Soaperie.


Staying Inside

While I spend all summer outdoors, I try to spend all winter (when I can) indoors. I invite friends over. I take naps with my cat. I read lots of books.

Reading made easy with these quirky bookmarks from Beacon Bookmarks.

I learned the hard way how dreary it gets all winter long without enough sun. I’ve finally understood why my husband has to turn all of the lights in the apartment on when he’s home. So brighten up your space with good colors, bright lights, and beautiful things.

Like this beautiful lamp from YoursTrulyxoxo.


If All Else Fails, Go On Vacation

Everyone else seems to do it too.




By a professed California Girl (even if I didn’t know it until I moved across the country)

Karen

http://karensmonsters.etsy.com
http://karensmonsters.blogspot.com