Well, Mark Shalers, The Old Farmer’s Almanac prediction for Winter 2016-17 is great – if you love the cold and snow. They are saying it will be colder than normal in much of the nation, with above normal snowfall. So, it’s time to get serious about how you’re going to combat the weather – fashionably, of course. Even if those frosty days feel far away, NOW is when you need to get your cold weather gear – don’t wait until the last minute, when sizes are broken and colors are sold out.

Outerwear: Designers must have been checking The Almanac, too, because coats and jackets aren’t just functional – they’re downright fashionable. Puffer jackets are more important than ever, and military inspiration creates stylish details on wool coats, like statement buttons or epaulettes. Polished silhouettes with upscale finishes give “granny chic” a chic comeback, making it a great season to invest in a new dress coat. Touches of luxury in leather, shearling, and even velvet take any coat to the next level.

Sweaters: Chunky wool, après ski sweaters are so cozy - and ideal when you are bundling up for a weekend walk in the snow. On any winter day though, cardigans, turtlenecks, and super soft cashmere in every style are the perfect cold weather layers.

Scarves: Whether you choose to play with some new seasonal color (reds, pinks, purples, and greens are all great face colors for scarves) or pattern (floral, plaid, stripes, and animal prints) to offset a neutral coat, oversized and warm scarves are easy to layer over the neckline of most outerwear pieces. And thin wools and cashmeres are just as practical to wear tucked snugly inside your coat.

Gloves: As is the case every winter, practicality is generally the name of the game. With smart phone technology, Thinsulate® lining, or natural shearling and fur, keeping your digits warm can be stylish, while still functional.

Hats: Play off your scarf choice with matching color in a wool or cashmere knit hat. Alternatively, ensure one is neutral and have some fun with the other – it’s just about not clashing. Besides the cozy knits we love, structured hats are also prevalent, playing off the military and upscale coat trends of the season. If you’ve always wanted to try a furry trapper hat (how warm!), this is the season to give it a go.

Boots: With the trend of lower block heels, it’s actually possible to make your necessary cold weather boots look like they’re really part of your outfit. And this season’s blending of casual and dressier looks makes it easy to wear some seriously functional boots – especially when they’re styled in ever-versatile black.

Head over to this week’s Fashion Finds, “Head-to-Toe Cold Weather Finds: Keep Warm in Style” to shop our edited picks that will keep you warm from head-to-toe. Let us know what you think through the comments section below and on social media.