I reside in the Midwest—30 Functional (and Chic!) Fashion, Beauty, and Lifestyle Products I'm Considering for Winter.

      (Image credit: @kaitlyn_mclintock) Most Wanted is a weekly feature where one editor, staff member, or influencer reveals their top 30 essentials or wish-list items. I’m based in the Midwest—specifically, Northern Michigan. I returned two years ago after spending almost a decade in much warmer areas. Initially, the winter conditions I once knew felt shocking. The cold temperatures, gusty winds, and overcast skies briefly made me question my decision to be here. However, I simply needed time to acclimatize. Now, I’m pleased to say that I genuinely enjoy winter (yes, really!). The refreshing chill! The soft, freshly fallen snow! The snug ambiance! It’s truly enchanting—provided you dress appropriately, maintain good health, and combat cabin fever, of course.

      Thriving in the midst of a harsh winter is indeed an art. For me, it’s about surrounding myself with the right fashion, beauty, and lifestyle items—essentially, practical choices that keep me warm and cozy while embracing the Danish concept of hygge. Yet, I still want to appear stylish and polished. Fortunately, it’s possible to achieve both. Below, check out the 30 practical yet fashionable items I’m looking forward to for winter 2026.

      FP Movement

      Hit the Slopes Printed Fleece Jacket

      When my sister first saw me in this fleece, she exclaimed, "Wow, you can definitely tell it's high quality," and she was spot on. Every detail is well-made, from the thick, plush fabric to the sturdy snap buttons. It’s my go-to outerwear for casual outings. I wear it while running errands and walking my dog, and the bold alpine print always brings me joy. I even took the photo above while wearing it on a snowy hike.

      FP Movement

      Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket

      For a lighter, more layer-friendly option, I adore FP Movement's Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket. I already own it in a vibrant blue shade called Mid-Atlantic, but I’m now eyeing the creamy beige variant, Tofu. It's so light that it feels almost weightless, yet it surprisingly offers substantial warmth—truly the best of both worlds.

      Sorel

      Caribou Waterproof Boot

      I genuinely believe there’s no better winter boot than these. Sorel's classic Caribou Boots are waterproof and insulated, and they keep my feet so warm that I can trek through deep snow for hours without my toes feeling cold at all.

      UGG

      Classic Mini II Genuine Shearling Lined Boot

      You won’t catch me braving a Midwest winter without a pair of Uggs—it's simply not happening! I actually own two pairs: the Coquette Shearling-Lined Slippers ($130) for indoor use and these Classic Mini II Boots for outdoor. They are warm and easy to slip on quickly. I’m convinced they’re the best footwear for running errands in cold weather.

      H&M

      Warm-Lined Mittens - Beige

      These mittens have recently joined my winter wardrobe. They are warm, stylish, and coordinate perfectly with my Uggs.

      Princess Polly

      Yumiko Skirted Organic Cotton Romper

      I bought this romper after realizing my winter wardrobe lacked stylish options to pair with my tall boots and long duster jackets. I appreciate the structured silhouette and the lace-up detail on the back. You'll often see me in it with sheer black tights, tall boots, and a cozy, ankle-length wool coat for a night out.

      Sheertex

      Classic Semi-Opaque Rip-Resist Tights

      On the subject of tights, these are rip-resistant, and I absolutely love them.

      Call It Spring By Aldo

      Mattiie Knee High Boot

      These are the exact knee-high boots I acquired to complement my new romper and tights. I appreciate the classic design and the fact that the heel isn’t excessively high or thin, allowing me to navigate icy patches without worry.

      Madewell

      The Sculptural Buckle Suede Shoulder Bag

      I have a soft spot for suede bags. I own various slouchy totes and shoppers but lack a smaller, structured option. This is the one I'm planning to add to my collection.

      Ana Luisa

      Asher Huggie Hoop Earrings

      Lately, I’ve been really into mixed metals. I enjoy the ease of wearing both gold and silver simultaneously without needing to switch out my rings, necklaces, and earrings for each outfit. These hoops are ultra-stylish.

      Beauty

      Rhode

      Glazing Milk Ceramide Facial Essence

      Milky toners really deserve the praise they receive. They’re often packed with ceramides, glycerin, and other hydrating ingredients that help protect skin during winter. I use this one as my first step after cleansing.

      First Aid Beauty

      Ultra Repair Hydrating Pillow Pads

      When my skin feels particularly parched (it turns into