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Essentials to Keep on Hand During Winter 2021

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at KU chapter.

I love the fall, but something about the winter months is so nice. While the cold air blowing into your face may seem unpleasant, being able to bundle up in sweaters and coats while going about life is so extremely cozy. Aside from that, once you return to your own space, the warmth of the building mixed with glowing lights and fluffy blankets makes winter living so picturesque. In order to keep the spirits and festivities alive throughout the season, I think that there are a few things everyone needs to keep in mind when it comes to having a cute little Christmas party or a cozy night in. 

Hot Cocoa 

Starting off with a classic, hot chocolate is a staple for me, especially around Christmastime. Having a warm and sweet treat at your convenience can really bring a sparkle to your day, and cocoa is an item that can be customized to fit anyone’s palette. If you prefer no marshmallows, extra marshmallows, milk chocolate or dark chocolate, there is the perfect packet of cocoa waiting for you at your nearest grocery store. I also love to add caramel syrup to my hot chocolate to make it a little richer.  

Recipe Book or Cards 

This one may seem a little strange, but in all actuality it will keep life so much easier. The holidays are prime baking time, so having all of your favorite bread and dessert recipes at your disposal can be extremely convenient. Whether you want to use your grandma’s classic cinnamon roll recipe or a dupe for Starbucks’ pumpkin bread that you found on Pinterest, having all of your go-tos can make holiday baking quicker and less stressful when you are trying to cover the desserts for your family’s Thanksgiving celebration. 

Variety of Sweaters 

Obviously sweaters are a typical winter clothing item, but the key to styling sweaters is to have a variety of styles and weights to chose from. After a huge snowstorm, you probably would want to go with a chunky wool sweater that will keep you extra warm. However, on a windy and rainy day where you will be layering rain jackets on top of your outfit, it may be more optimal to go for a lighter, but tightly woven sweater to keep you from getting too warm or humid. I have found great varieties of sweaters for cheap at T.J. Maxx or even thrift stores that come in plain shades or have some sort of cute embroidery to set you apart.  

Thick Socks 

While fuzzy socks are great and adorable, you have to admit that in a situation where you are out in the cold, they are not the best option for keeping your feet warm. I think having a good couple of pairs of thick socks for the cold, wet days can bring far more comfort than a regular pair of socks could. There is nothing worse than walking somewhere in the winter and sloshing snow onto your ankle, leaving the ice to melt down into your sock. The mix of cold air against your wet sock and the shoes you are wearing becoming damp is so uncomfortable! Having a nice quality pair of socks that come above the ankle and keep your toes extra warm is such a gamechanger, and I think it’s crucial for people to try and find a pair that they like before it gets much colder. 

Hi, I'm Lilly and I am a Freshman at the University of Kansas! I love to read, write, shop, and watch movies and TV shows and I am so excited to be able to share these interests with you! I hope to have you stick around:)