Depending upon wardrobe, the winter season is full of either magic or misery. Having the right gear is critical to stay cozy, comfortable and cheerful through the coldest months of the year, which we’ve all learned the hard way. Once the deep freeze sets in, luxury goods like leather, fur and cashmere suddenly stop seeming frivolous, proving they’re worth the investment. Quality pieces also keep the layers to a minimum, which is less restricting and more stylish. It’s time to bundle up, so splurge a little on these showstopping accessories for a cozy and chic winter season:

1. Gloves
   Yes, gloves are essential in winter, but they’re also where your personal style can shine. They are cheap & cheerful, making it easy to stock up on a mixture of basic neutrals, bold hues and fun prints. Try tone-on-tone pairings with outerwear, or pops of color like fuchsia gloves with charcoal, peacock blue with chocolate brown, or taxi cab yellow with camel hair. For those more daring, this is where you can take some risk and try exotics — leopard, python, zebra — to see if it suits your style.

2. Cashmere beanie
   Compact enough to stash in a purse or pocket, cashmere beanies are stylish toppers that keep ears covered and warmth in. But don’t be fooled by the simple design and single strand knit because cashmere packs a big punch when it comes to keeping things toasty. Find one in your best dark neutral and consider getting a second one in an accent hue or fun on-trend color to add a statement pop to your winter palette.

3. Cashmere socks
   Nothing keeps your feet happier than cashmere socks. Wear knee-highs with driving moccasins, loafers and ankle booties, or try extra-long cashmere socks styled over the knee and paired with knee-high riding boots. It adds unexpected dimension to an outfit plus the peek-a-boo, surprise-and-delight effect is especially fun when socks pop a shock of color or pattern.

4. Wool tights
   Wooly tights are lifesavers in wintertime. They’re not only toasty warm, wool tights keep your favorite skirts and dresses in rotation through winter. Ribbed, textured or smooth, they add visual interest to tone-on-tone looks or steal the spotlight as an outfit’s focal point. Stock up on a rainbow of colors and patterns, then pair with monochromatic looks or hodgepodge separates to keep outfit after outfit looking fresh.

5. Fur headband
   A fur headband is the ultimate in luxury, but also practicality. The ring design nestles the ears and retains body heat, while transforming any look into haute fashion. Scout vintage styles in real fur or shop new ones in faux fur while also considering alternative materials like camel hair or sherpa. The look is slightly different but the effect is the same — super warm! Finish the look with a deep, dark lipstick that’s just as dramatic as the season.

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