We’ll admit it: One major perk of our job as editors is that we get to try out tons of products to let you know if they’re truly worth your hard-earned money. So in the nature of tossing gatekeeping to the curb, we’re sharing our favorite cozy items we can’t live without when cozy season hits. Because they really are that good (and we’ll be super sad if they sell out and we can’t get them anymore). Without further ado…
A heating pad that will change your life...
I truly cannot live without a heating pad. I run cold so come wintertime, I need one on me every night. It provides the ultimate cozy vibe and just makes couch time at the end of the day that much more comfortable. I prefer microwavable ones because they have a bit of weight to them that I find calming. I'd also highly recommend them for stomachaches, cramps, and sore muscles. If you find your shoulders are tight from sitting at a desk, this is a great option to relieve tension. –Alexandra Napoli ($17.97, Walmart)
A blanket that doesn't cost a fortune...
Along with being a heating pad girlie, I am also a tried-and-true blanket girlie. Hunkering down for a movie night on the couch without one seems incomplete to me. This fleece/sherpa one from Wayfair is perfect for winter. It's plush so it feels substantial and the plaid gray provides the perfect holiday aesthetic. Plus — and this is important — it's affordable. I'm not someone who wants to spend a small fortune on pillows and blankets, so this being $30 is ideal. –Alexandra Napoli ($23.47+, Wayfair)
The best pajamas we've ever worn...
P.J. Salvage is hands down the best pajama brand. I will shout it from the rooftops. I got my tonsils out a few Christmases ago (yes, as an adult), and wore their pajama set with dogs playing instruments on it — this set is unfortunately sold out, but this is what it looks like if you’re interested — every day for two weeks straight. And while I was experiencing searing pain in my throat, the rest of me was delightfully comfy and cozy. They’re the softest and stretchiest but not too stretchy that they’re saggy, and keep me warm without making me hot. This polka dot and heart situation is just plain cute if some of the more printed options are not your vibe. Find a set you like, and you’ll never look at your old pajamas the same –Martha Upton ($64, Shopbop)
A bluetooth speaker that's incredibly portable...
For me, a lot of what makes me feel cozy is listening to music I love. I must have a playlist going when I’m making breakfast, working, showering, cleaning out the dishwasher, you get the gist. I love that this extremely compact speaker is easy to grab and take with me from one room to the next. It holds a charge like nobody’s business — seriously, by the time it’s low on juice, I almost forget where the charger is — and the sound quality is amazing. Plus, it’s hard to beat this price point. –Martha Upton ($73.39+, Walmart)
Plush socks that are actually worth it...
Barefoot Dreams forever. I used to scoff at the price (and part of me still does) but once you've tried their classic knit, you can't go back. These socks are my everything, whether I'm getting home from a busy day out or want cozy vibes when I'm working from home. They're my all-time favorite fuzzy socks. I'd split this pack up among friends for a sweet stocking stuffer, or just keep all three for yourself. You'll be wearing them enough anyways. –Margo Ghertner ($58/3-pack, Shopbop)
The perfect lived-in sweatshirt...
I love that this sweatshirt already comes perfectly oversized, so you don't have to think about sizing up for the right look. I throw this on for quick errands or moments when I want to feel cozy and cute without having to make much of an effort. Because it's made of cotton, it's great for layering and if you keep your home toasty this time of year, you won't overheat. Currently eyeing the shearling version, which I'm very close to adding to my cart. –Margo Ghertner ($98, Free People)
The electric kettle that's at the top of our wish list...
My evening cup of tea is one of my favorite nighttime rituals, signaling that the day’s work is done and the evening coziness can commence. I’ve had the same unremarkable electric kettle for a few years, so this winter, I’m considering treating myself to the Fellow Stagg electric kettle that I’ve coveted for a while. I love its elegant lines and Scandi-chic wooden handle — since I keep my kettle out on the counter, I want it to bring me joy, aesthetically — and I just know that the gooseneck’s smooth pour will be incredibly satisfying. (PS: If you're a gooseneck person but don't want to spend this much on a tea kettle, this one looks similar and is a fraction of the price.) –Caroline Goldstein ($195, Bloomingdale’s)
The face masks we swear by...
The only thing that makes my nightly cup of tea cozier? Wearing a sheet mask while I drink it. Tbh, I think sheet masks pretty much all work the same, but I always repurchase the Lapcos masks. They’re nice and juicy without feeling too wet (nothing worse than sheet mask serum constantly running down your neck and into your T-shirt), the eye and mouth holes are actually the right size, and they don’t slip around on your face. The Honey version is my favorite for reducing redness and even lifting some discoloration. I also like Aqua for a pure burst of hydration. –Caroline Goldstein ($17/5-pack, Free People)
A heated blanket if you're always cold...
My apartment is super cold this time of year, so I need a layer of about seven blankets to keep myself warm. I recently bought this heated one and I love it. It’s super soft on its own and also gets nice and toasty. It also turns off automatically after four hours, so if you forget to turn it off you don't have to worry. –Celia Skvaril ($28.99+, Walmart)
Ear muffs that are stylish and warm...
My ears get SO cold in the fall and winter; I think it's because of my ear piercings. I can't leave the house without something on my ears or I am seriously in so much pain. These earmuffs are super cute, and I get compliments on them every time I leave the house. They keep my ears warm and add a fun touch to my outfits. –Celia Skvaril ($34, Anthropologie)
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