Outfitted: Cozy season favorites
Outfitted
Courtesy photo
Even though there are plenty of warm days left before we transition to winter, the feel in the air has taken a turn. It’s officially cozy season. With cooler nights and the sun going down earlier, it’s time to break out those sweaters, hats, and blankets. Whether you’re getting in some early fall camping or snuggling up for some star gazing, here are some of my recent favorites to kick off this magical mountain season:
1. Salewa Tognazza PL Jacket
A cozy fleece is pretty much a daily staple when the temps turn chilly. The Tognazza is my new fav for its velvety feel and athletic fit. Named after Cima Tognazza, a peak in the Pale de San Martino Massif of South Tyrol, this works great as a mid-layer or on its own. It’s extremely light for how warm it is. The body-mapped design traps body heat where needed with 270-weight fleece but uses a lighter melange fleece along the underside of the arms and the sides of the body to create a better fit, a little breathability, and a lighter overall weight. Available in women’s and men’s sizes and colors. $160, Salewa.com.
2. Pendleton Westerly Sweater
In my opinion, nobody does cozy better than Pendleton. With their famous wool blankets and stunning apparel, I’m constantly drooling over their latest additions. My recent favorite is this refashioned version of the sweater made famous in “The Big Lebowski.” This one is a little longer and a bit more flattering with its thick, warm lambswool construction, two-way zipper, and side pockets. Great for nights around the fire when you want a little Western flair. Available in women’s and men’s sizes and colors. $269, Pendleton-usa.com.
3. Bogs Amanda Chelsea II Waterproof Rain Boots
With the weather constantly changing and rainy days inevitable, I love a good rain boot for the fall. However, even though they are incredibly functional, I don’t love the stark rubbery feel of most traditional rain boots. Bogs have saved the day on that matter with a super plush lining inside of their Amanda Chelsea boots that makes them cozy as well as practical. With a slip-resistant sole, 100% waterproof rubber exterior, and a steel shank in the outsole for stability, these boots will get you through stormy, muddy days without sacrificing comfort. Another bonus of the lining is that it combats odor and wicks sweat away to keep your feet dry. $95, Bogsfootwear.com.
4. Solo Stove Geo Tabletop Fire Bowl
Sometimes, I want the joy and ambiance of a fire without the hassle and effort it takes to go camping. I’ve been using this tabletop fire bowl on my patio all summer and love it even more in the fall. Fired by gel fuel, this bowl creates a clean, smoke-free, odorless fire that is easy to light and maintain. The flame flickers and crackles like a real fire, puts out a little heat, and even works for s’more making. The bowl is beautiful with its molded concrete and pebbles on top, and its cork bottom keeps it from scratching your table surface. Be careful when extinguishing, though! When I first tried to blow it out, it singed my eyelashes. Not my brightest moment. I’ve since learned that you’re just supposed to cover the fuel canister with the lid. Easy peasy. Available in 4 different colors. $95, Solostove.com.
5. Josh Cellars Hearth
With the goal of reminding people of comfort and warmth, Josh Cellars decided to name their recent Cabernet Sauvignon after the hearth. Made with grapes grown in proximity to water and the ascending slopes of the Sierra Nevada, this wine has luscious flavors of baked plums, black cherries, and blackberries. A bit jammy, it is full-bodied and has a long, warm finish. I find myself transitioning away from whites and rosés when the weather gets chilly, and Hearth is the perfect celebration of the start of the cozy season. The vineyard says Hearth is best enjoyed in moments when you want to be connected with loved ones. It has a great price point, as well. $18, Joshcellars.com.
Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.
