It's quickly getting colder, which means you have to think fast to accessorise for the season. From buying key items for your wardrobe to finding warm comforts for your home, there are certain items you simply have to invest in.
1. A QUALITY TRENCH COAT
A South African winter can be an icy experience, but if you're bundled up in a stylish trench coat you won't feel a thing. Make sure you buy a quality molten coat and nothing too thin or flimsy. But you don't have to break the bank to buy quality.
Save: Ackermans (R299)
Splurge: X&O at YDE (R899)
2. A GOOD PAIR OF BOOTS
Slipping into stilettos may look fabulous from the warm comfort of your bedroom at 7am, but the second you step outside, you're going to wish you had a pair of thick socks and a chic pair of boots keeping your feet warm. Whether you choose to save or splurge, make sure you don't buy boots that are going to start falling apart after one season.
Save: Shoe City (R199 – R279 a pair)
Splurge: Zoom (R1 299)
3. AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT HEATER
Keeping warm doesn't have to increase your carbon footprint – buy an energy-inefficient heater. The most energy-saving and least wasteful options are either infrared or wall panel heaters. While prices range from company to company, we found two hot options for you to think about investing in.
Save:
Econo Heat Wall Heater (R299)
Splurge:
Striking Energy Deluxe Infrared Heater (R1050)
4. A FUR QUILT
Fur is back in style again – faux fur, of course! And it seems owning a furry quilt is right on trend. Picture yourself curled up on your couch on a stormy night under a warm, fur quilt… While fur might not always be in fashion, it will certainly keep you warm every time winter comes around, making it a good buy and an even greater investment.
Save: Mr Price Home (R459.95)
Splurge: @Home (R699)
5. RED WINE
Along with soups and stews, red wine and winter enjoy a functional relationship. With thousands of cheaper (and more expensive) brands to choose from, a COSMO girl really is spoilt for choice when it comes to picking the perfect bottle to match the perfect meal. Remember, while you might want to splurge on one bottle for a special occasion, cheaper wine can taste just as good, if not better.
Save: Perdeberg Soft Smooth Red (R31.99)
Splurge: Groot Constantia Merlot (R139.99)
6. A FLUFFY FLEECE ROBE
No one enjoys getting out of a hot bath or shower in the middle of winter. Investing in a super-soft fleece robe will keep you warm post-scrub, and it will last for years.
Save: Woolworths (R199)
Splurge: La Senza (R699)
7. SHEEPSKIN SLIPPERS
Together with your new fluffy gown, a pair of slippers is a must. No, not your favourite pair from two years ago with the holes. A fluffy, new pair. While sheepskin slippers may not be the prettiest option, they are warm and durable. By far, one of the smartest winter investments you'll ever make. You don't really need to splurge on this one, as
Oskavas only cost between R200 and R240.
8. DVD BOX SET
Once you've settled in for the evening on your couch with a glass of red and your heater by your side, switch on the TV and relax. Buy (or rent) your favourite TV series box set (one you'll watch over and over again). If you'd rather spend less, buy one season instead.
Save: We recommend
True Blood Season One (R329.95)
Splurge: You can't go wrong with the
Will and Grace Complete 32-Disc Box Set (R999.95)