Holiday Gift Guide: Cozy Ideas for Winter Warmth

Australian Wool Shawl in "Baroque" by Scarflings.

Some of the best Christmas gifts I've ever received (or given) have been those associated with staying warm. Think toasty wools scarves, warm booties, and fleece-lined gloves. All such gifts show that you care about the recipient's comfort and happiness. Here are a few gift ideas along with tips on how to get the best of the best warm things for everyone on your list.

100% Wool Scarves - This type of scarf makes the perfect gift because it is so very versatile and travels well.  The name Pashmina is derived from the Persian language and literally means soft and shiny. Known for being extremely plush, the yarns are derived from the Ibex goat native to Kashmir. Pashmina vs Cashmere: Both are very soft but Pashmina fibers are finer and thinner thus making them ideal for lightweight items like shawls. This "Baroque" Scarflings 100% Australian Wool Shawl is a generous 245 x 110 cms with tassel edges. Not as soft as my Pashmina shawls but very warm and functional with beautiful detail. See all the assorted fibers and patterns of shawls and scarves at Scarflings.com

Winter Valley Stripe Merino Wool Scarf by Smartwool

I've worn Smartwool merino wool scarves, gloves and socks for years now and there is nothing like them. The patterns are beautiful and they launder well if hand-washed in Woolite. The Winter Valley Stripe Merino Wool Scarf makes a great gift for either a man or a woman. With neutral colors like these, it will go with nearly any outfit.  Scarf length is about 5' 6" and has textured stitching throughout.  Smartwool.com

Carve Designs Wool Blend Tweed Bucket Hat

Now while hats can be sort of a personal taste item, a classic like this tweed bucket hat is sure to"turn heads".  Wool is naturally warm, water repellent and breathable but can be itchy. That's why it's important to pick a structured hat like this with a satiny lining.  Adjusts with a decorative hatband which includes the Carve Designs silver logo.  These are sold out everywhere else but I have a pre-owned one available on eBay so check it out: Carve Designs Wool Blend Bucket Hat

Head to Toe Warmth!  Keysocks and Arcopedico Booties.

KeySocks  Here's another area where you have to know the person's individual tastes and shoe size.  However, based on my past gift-giving experience, socks are always welcome.  
KeySocks are unique in that the cutout allows them to fit better in loafers and mid-heeled shoes or pumps.  Your feet and legs still stay warm but you'll have a more tailored look in your "editor pants" at the office.  They come in a variety of colors and patterns so they make a well-received present.  KeySocks.com

Arcopedico Luana Vegan Leather Ankle Booties are another idea for those with cold feet.  Made of faux suede, these wedged booties are quick to get off/on and are very lightweight.  In fact, they are even machine washable,  I haven't worn them in the snow yet but they are flexible enough to accommodate a heavy wool sock if needed.  Their other model bootie, the N42 is made of leather and a bit more waterproof.  The snap buttons can be somewhat tedious to close but the arch support and fit are amazing. European made in Portugal, Arcopedico footwear is a quality brand that you will be proud to give or receive as a gift.  Arcopedico.com

Honns "Oliver" soft leather thermal gloves.

Honns Genuine Leather Winter Gloves: Gloves have become so much more high-tech these days.  The newer ones even have touch-screen sensitive pads on the fingertips which allow you to access your cell without removing them. These are very warm but made of lambskin so are not as bulky as cow's leather.  Available now on Amazon: Honns Women's Genuine Leather Winter Gloves

Warmth to Go - A heating blanket that goes everywhere.

The Cozee Battery Powered Heating Blanket offers the perfect solution to attending events and other cold-weather outdoor activities.  Richly plush on one side, smooth and water/weather resistant on the other, the Cozee has a pouch to accommodate the battery pack. Has lateral hand pockets for quick warming. It has a power switch and three LED heat settings.  Accessories include rechargeable battery pack, recharger cable, and cigarette lighter cable for use in a vehicle. Take it along for a trip and you'll have extra warmth quickly available.  Really could save your life in a freezing emergency especially for children, the elderly and the disabled who often have trouble regulating body heat.  See The Cozee