Winter is coming, and you have to be prepared! This being my first winter in my new home, there was a bit of an adjustment that needed to be done. Last Christmas, I wore sandals, capris, and a t-shirt. I'm writing this now, weeks before Christmas, and it's currently 4 degrees Fahrenheit outside.

Without further ado, here are the things I now consider to be absolute winter essentials.

1) A good, warm jacket

Whether you get a North Face, Patagonia, Mountain Hardware, whatever you want -- just make sure it's a good one! I opt for synthetics and man-made/vegan options, myself; but I highly recommend checking out thrift stores and eBay if you want to buy something with down, leather, or other animal products. Not only are you saving a little bit of money, but you're giving those articles of clothing a second life in your wardrobe.

If you're smaller (like yours truly), you have to check out the kids section. Kids grow out of things so quickly, and that section is FULL of really nice stuff for a fraction of the cost. Even if you aren't sure it will fit, try it on! Worst case scenario, you'll get a few weird looks from the store employees.

2) Gloves with ETIP fingers

Okay, these are a necessity if you live in a place that actually gets snow. Not only are decent gloves an absolute must for walking around, driving, snow-frolicking; but the ETIP allows you to use your phone without having to get your fingers all cold.

I often walk instead of driving, but I frequently use my phone for directions. Having to choose between warm hands and a safe walk

is just no fun!

3) Beanies, beanies, and more beanies!

Beanies, caps, hats, whatever you call them -- get a good collection! Sure, they're a really great accessory; but nothing feels better than being able to slip one of these on as you walk out of your apartment to brave the chill. They help keep the heat in your body, keep your ears nice and warm, and also help hide bad hair days.

I recommend finding a style that you really love and buying a few colors: neutrals, patterns, neons, pastels. They'll go with everything you own, and they last for years. Plus, they're pretty inexpensive!

4) Warm socks

Fuzzy socks, wool socks, tall socks: whatever you prefer, get a bunch. There have been a few days this week that I've had to wear two pairs of socks. Similarly to beanies, you really can never have too many pairs of socks. These also last for years and can come in a variety of colors and patterns.

*Bonus Tip: Both beanies and socks make excellent gifts, if you're not sure what to get someone! Again, you can never have too many. Plus, it's pretty hard to mess up the sizing!

5) A waterproof/water-resistant phone case

Picture this: You're walking home on a snowy evening, using your phone for directions. You're desperately trying to walk on the part of the sidewalk that's not covered in ice, but you make one misstep. You slip, lose your balance, and your phone flings out of your hand and becomes airborne. You regain your balance, just in time to watch your phone land in a huge pile of snow.

Trust me, you'll thank yourself for this later. These cases usually come with warranties for the case too, so you can use them for a long time. They're great to have year-round, but if you live in a place that gets more snow than rain during the year, you might not have purchased one yet. Now, you have every reason to.

6) Water-resistant boots

Insulated and cozy, boots are a necessity. Again, I opt for synthetic materials or pre-loved shoes. Check out eBay for incredible deals on pre-owned boots! Also, kids shoes usually run larger than most people realize, so go try on a few pairs of children's shoes if you think you can fit. (For reference, I wear a 5 or a 5.5 in women's shoes. I wear a 3 or a 3.5 in children's, and a lot of them go up to size 6!)

So that's my list of winter essentials! If you found this list helpful, give it a share! Stay warm! <3