My Mom’s 7 Winter Essentials Inspire My Style

She makes elevated dressing look easy.

Last time I visited family, I attempted to pack as light as possible, which inevitably resulted in me raiding my mom’s closet. I didn’t have any complaints, though—the older I get, the more I’ve realized how much my style is influenced by hers. And, after two weeks of wearing her clothes, I headed to Amazon to snag her essentials myself. Luckily, I found plenty of cold weather fashion options starting at just $27.

As a perpetually busy business owner, my mom’s taste is ruled by practicality. Still, she always manages to look chic. My theory? Her capsule pieces—including cozy sweaters, sleek coats, and leather accessories—are what make her winter wardrobe effortless and easy to style.

Mom-Approved Winter Fashion

Here are some of the key items that define my mom’s winter wardrobe:

• Lillusory Oversized Cardigan Sweater, $20 with coupon (Originally $42)
• Anrabess Lightweight Long Cardigan, $34 (Originally $50)
• Dr. Scholl’s Riding Boots, $64
• Vince Camuto Puffer Jacket, $192 (Originally $240)
• YKR Turtleneck Sweater, $41 (Originally $46)
• Kalidi Large Tote Bag, $27 (Originally $33)
• Jenkoon Wool Trench Coat, $48 (Originally $60)

Northern Pennsylvania winters are as frigid as they are unforgiving, so thick, warm knitwear is a major category in my mom’s closet. When headed into the office, she rotates through an array of cardigans, including longer styles like this best-selling $34 pick. For more casual days, however, she sticks to loose, cozy pieces like oversized turtlenecks. This $41 chunky pullover is right up her alley—it has a boxy fit, ribbed detailing, and comes in a wide range of colors.

As for outerwear, my mom often sports long coats with sharp silhouettes, which never fail to look polished. This Jenkoon Wool Trench, for example, would add a luxe feel to any outfit, despite the fact that it’s only $48. If she’s running errands or taking our family dog on a walk, my mom throws on a long, thick puffer. While many winter jackets look bland, I’m opting for this quilted coat from Vince Camuto. It features knit cuffs and a form-fitting belt, plus it’s made from water-resistant material.

Vince Camuto Puffer Jacket

$240

$192 at Amazon

YKR Turtleneck Sweater

$46

$41 at Amazon

Every outfit needs the proper shoes and accessories, and my mom’s collection has plenty to choose from. While she owns a dizzying amount of footwear and purses, her most worn pieces are incredibly functional. She’s rarely without a leather tote bag, which she always fills to the brim (a true Mary Poppins). Plus, her go-to winter shoes, tall, leather riding boots, are a style that’s comfortable enough to power through long days at the office.

Dr. Scholl’s Riding Boot

$6

$80 at Amazon

Kalidi Large Tote Bag

$33

$27 at Amazon

Head to Amazon to shop these cozy styles, and browse through even more mom-approved pieces, below.

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