There’s no place more magical than Central Park during the first snow. For a moment it’s like time stands still. The peaceful sound of snow falling, covering Bow Bridge with a soft white blanket. Kids sticking their tongues out for a taste of winter, eyes filled with wonder. Dogs wagging their tails in excitement, dashing across the Great Lawn. Singers harmonizing under Bethesda Terrace. The smell of warm, roasted nuts wafting through the sharp, cold air. Gosh, I love New York City.
I’ve realized how much I’ve taken for granted the fact that I get to live here. I mean, I literally have Central Park as my backyard. I’m exaggerating of course, but living on the Upper West Side means I’m only a short walk away. And I don’t go there nearly enough.
Having lived in Northeast all my life, I’ve long dreaded winters because they seem to never end. I swear, one year we had snow on the ground on Easter! But the first snowfall is always so exciting. This past weekend was the first snow of 2020 (and of the decade – what!!), so you bet I went outside to explore!
In typical New Yorker fashion, I made sure to wear tons of layers before heading out. I’ve been living in Club Monaco cashmere sweaters this season, and they have been an absolute lifesaver! And no, this post is not sponsored! Oh, if only it were… haha, a girl can dream. I’ve owned many different cashmere brands over the years, but nothing compares. In the past, my sweaters either pill, develop holes, or are super itchy. From Banana Republic to J. Crew, Macy’s to Kohl’s, nothing lasted me more than a year.
When buying cashmere, I want something that’s cute and warm, but also doesn’t break the bank. It’s nearly impossible to find a good quality cashmere sweater for under $100. Enter Club Monaco. Club Monaco is quite pricey, but during the holidays, you can get their sweaters on sale for under $75! Yes, you read that right. That’s cheaper than all of the affordable cashmere brands out there! And the quality is hard to beat. These sweaters are so soft and cozy, I can wear them with just a tank top. The fabric is also super light and breathable, which makes such a big difference. There’s nothing worse than feeling stuffy underneath all your layers!
Another essential for living in New York: a trustworthy winter coat. I invested in a Mackage puffer last year and though the price tag hurt my wallet, it was so worth it because I know I can wear this piece for many years to come. Because I’m so petite, it’s hard to find a durable and warm winter coat that doesn’t overpower my frame. I used to own a lighter down coat for everyday wear, and a heavier parka for those unbearably freezing days. But I found that my Michael Kors packable down coat lost feathers over time, and my North Face was way too bulky.
With Mackage, although it’s a parka, it still has a shape to it which I really appreciate. No one wants to look like a puffy blob! I love how this coat has a defined waistline, which makes your silhouette look sleek and stand out. Plus it comes in all different styles and lengths, which is perfect for people of all heights! Pro tip: if you’re not in a rush to buy a winter coat, wait until Thanksgiving. Many stores have amazing Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals. I got my Mackage coat for 40% off at Bloomingdale’s!
Other essentials for surviving a New York winter? A nice pair of snow boots, warm gloves, and a hat or earmuffs!
I’m linking some of my favorite Club Monaco cashmere sweaters and Mackage coats below. Stay warm, friends!
Where did you get your boots? I think they are super cute!