5 Winter Wardrobe Essentials You'll Need During the Holidays...No Matter What You Think Otherwise

Anyone that has spent their life living in the northern parts of the United States knows how challenging the winter elements can be on someone who's not used to snowflakes, ice, rain, sleet, and...ugh....shoveling.   Especially, if you're from the South, or the western part of the United States, you'll need not assume that your favorite pair of shorts, sandals, and light spring jacket will suffice if you're en route East for the holiday season.  If you're someone who's visiting the North for the first time, but, also someone, who isn't familiar with another region, then these 5 winter weather essentials for the holidays should be packed, as they will definitely be used.  Whether you're worried about the weather, or just trying to show off your fashion sense focusing on a fun holiday spirit look, these will make sure that the winter wonderland that you'll be spending some time in during this month, won't be too sufferable.

Ugly Christmas Sweater

Regardless of whether you're worried about keeping warm, or fashion-forward if you've got a holiday party to attend, an ugly Christmas sweater can pretty much do anything.  

Generally, made from knit-materials today, the ugly holiday sweater can not only represent your sense of humor, your inner-geek and holiday spirit, it will also keep you warm if you and your family have plans to go out caroling with Christmas right around the corner.  Perfect to wear on a chilly evening, or if you're one of those types of people who are always cold (even with a blanket across your lap, while you're on the sofa watching your favorite television show or movie), an ugly Christmas sweater will not disappoint.   They are also great to have because they not only allow your inner ugly to come out in public, but, should you need something appropriate to wear to an ugly Christmas sweater party this month, you'll have all your bases covered.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Pajamas / Onesies

The holidays are all about chilling out at home with family and friends, and when your only ambitions are to lay around on the sofa and hang out, being comfortable is the key to success.  Having a warm and fun blanket can also go a long way toward making you comfortable, too. But, having on the right pair of pajamas when you'll be on the sofa all day watching the original Star Wars Trilogy or a marathon of Christmas movies, is just as important.   

If you're a pajama-lover, then having a pair of warm, comfortable, and fun PJ’s is essential. Why  not have your pajamas represent the Christmas spirit, too?  The ugly Christmas sweater pajama trend is going strong now, so whether you're one of those people that likes a pair of two-piece PJ’s. or someone who is a little more old school and likes a union suit or adult onesie,  any pair of ugly Christmas sweater pajamas that you can find at your local big-box store are also for sale on the Internet and will make you that much more ready for conquering your holiday plans this year.

Scarf

While a scarf can be a fundamental accessory for anyone during the holiday season, it can be used to keep you warm or suggest exactly how fashion-forward you are.  Don't go out with your friends and family wearing a drab, boring plaid or flat-colored scarf.  Go big!…Think bold and bright colors!  

Have some fun and get loud with your scarf this holiday season.  Show off your holiday spirit with an ugly Christmas sweater scarf, or one that is representative of the general holiday air around you.  It will make you feel great, and you'll be sure to get compliments.

Hat / Gloves / Boots

Duh, right?   While it might seem obvious to have a hat,  good pair of gloves, and even boots with you during the holidays, , you'd be surprised how many people don't have them around when they need to keep warm.  Keeping your eyes, hands, and feet warm will not only help prevent frostbite, it will also keep your holiday spirit on high, as you'll have nothing to complain about if you've got to go out caroling, go cut down the family Christmas tree, or are out walking to get some fresh air during this festive time of year.

Hand-Warmers

Aren't hand-warmers gloves?  No, hand-warmers are better!  Commonly sold at sporting goods stores around the United States, and commonly-used by hunters, fishermen, and even hikers,  these little bundles of heat are cheap and they can save your life!  

For anyone that's been out in the cold for too long, even with good gloves one, know the warmth provided will only last so long!  So, with a hand-warmer activated and in the palm of your hand while you have your gloves on will make you as snug as a bug in a rug, and ready for more fun with family. I also like to throw them in my family’s boots/socks to keep their feet warm, while spending long periods of time outside in the chilly weather. 

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These are just five winter wardrobe essentials that come to mind, for those who will be enjoying the holidays, and maybe even an upcoming winter holiday/vacation up North, where there will be snow and a wintry mix of weather and colder temperatures.  If you have any must have wardrobe essentials you pack or have ready for the winter and holidays, be sure to leave your suggestions in the comments section below, so readers (and myself) see what works for you and your family.  I know we don’t like to over pack, but holidays in New England, especially, are unpredictable when it comes to weather, so it is better to be safe than sorry, when it comes to having on right clothes and accessories to make the most of your time indoors and out, with family and friends, as you wait for Santa’s arrival, or get ready to ring in the new year.

Guest Post Author Bio:

Justin Michaels works for UglyChristmasSweater.com.  When he's not discussing the reasons why anyone should own an ugly Christmas sweater, and especially so during the holiday months, he enjoys riding his mountain bike, reading, and listening to music.