Outfitted: Cozy, season staples

We’re currently in a sweet spot of the mountain year — that brief stretch before winter takes over completely. Frequent frost glitters on the lawn, the aspens rattle bare, and you start waking up to see your breath hang in the air. It’s the in-between: too cold for flip-flops, too early for ski boots. And while the snowpack isn’t here yet, it’s definitely time to settle into the season of cozy.

1. Faribault Mill Minnehaha Falls Wool Throw

Made in Minnesota from a blend of Rambouillet and Merino wool sourced from Rocky Mountain farms, this throw is everything you want for fall: weighty enough to feel grounding but not so heavy that you overheat. The rich color patterns and heritage craftsmanship make it the kind of blanket that lives permanently on the arm of your couch — perfect for cider-sipping and football-binging weather. As a die-hard Ohio State Buckeye, the red-and-gray plaid version was an easy choice for me, but there are plenty of color options to choose from. $195, FaribaultMill.com.

2. Manitobah Mitt

Handcrafted with sheepskin and lined in plush fur, these mitts are a wearable reminder of what’s coming: real winter. Made with a mix of modern materials and millennia-old design, they’re functional art. The beadwork is simple yet striking, and as with Manitobah’s moccasins and mukluks, purchasing a pair directly supports Indigenous communities and celebrates Indigenous culture in a meaningful, authentic way. Available in multiple colors. $80, Manitobah.com.

3. Rab Women’s Microlight Windstopper Down Jacket

For those days when “crisp” edges toward “biting,” this jacket is a small miracle. Lightweight and flattering, it’s designed for movement while keeping the chill out. With WINDSTOPPER technology by GORE-TEX Labs, it’s perfect for off-season hikes or those first flurries that catch you off guard. Micro- and nano-baffles are strategically placed for insulation and mobility in all the right places. It has a slim fit, so if you plan to  layer underneath, size up. Available in women’s and men’s sizes and colors. $340, Rab.equipment/us/.

4. Paka Apparel Women’s Hoodie

Until recently, Paka only offered its classic hoodie in unisex sizes, which, let’s face it, rarely works for women. After many requests from fans, the brand released a women’s version with a slightly longer back length and beautiful rib stitching along the sides. Ethically made, insanely soft, and temperature-regulating with its Peruvian alpaca fiber blend, this is the layer you’ll reach for on every errand, dog walk, and coffee run until spring. $149, PakaApparel.com.

5. Fjällräven Snow Beanie

Every fall, I like to celebrate the rite of passage into winter by buying a new hat. My choice this time around is this Fjällräven classic knit cap — equal parts warmth and nostalgia. Made of 100% soft, traceable lambswool, the pattern is inspired by Scandinavian folklore and includes flatlock seams and a ribbed edge. I’ve been loving it for early morning dog walks, spontaneous leaf-peeping drives, and Friday night football games. Available in multiple colors. $55, Fjallraven.com.

6. Glerups Slip-On with Leather Sole

Nothing says “fall off-season” like swapping sandals for slippers. These itch-free Danish wool slip-ons — made of 100% natural wool — mold to your feet over time, keeping them warm without that sweaty-sock situation. The calfskin leather sole adds durability for those quick jaunts to the woodpile or mailbox. Available in multiple sizes and colors for women, men, and children. $100, Glerups.com.

7. Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set

Fall is my favorite time to reassess my sleep setup before the cold of winter hits, and I recently added this set to the mix. These brushed cotton sheets are soft, breathable, and just the right amount of toasty. A bit warmer than classic percale without being as intense as flannel, they’re perfect for burrowing in on cool nights when the snow forecast is still “around the corner.” Bonus: they get softer with every wash. Available in multiple colors. $279 for queen size, ParachuteHome.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.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.