Polar Vortex

My OOTD. But really... 

I wish I could say that the best money I've ever spent on a material object was something super fun and luxurious... but seriously, the best money I ever spent was on something that makes me look like a fluffy marshmallow. But I'm OK with that, because there is a polar vortex and I'm warm. 

So... the only photos I have of myself in this marshmallow of a parka are Instagram selfies and one from a Steeler game in 2012... but you get it. It's fluffy and warm and sometimes, you can't tell if I'm actually a girl because I am so covered up...hence, me not wanting to be photographed in said coat... but like I said, it's darn warm. 
When I graduated from JMU in 2012, I forgot what frigid cold felt like; that was, until I experienced a full Pittsburgh winter (post-grad) and decided I had to bite the bullet and get one of those obnoxious parkas. I've never looked back. I think I spent all of $55 on this coat which was on sale from Lands End. It is such high quality for the price paid; I wear it day in and day out throughout the nasty Pittsburgh winter and it holds up perfectly. 
Right now, Lands End has a few on sale right now so it is definitely worth checking out.  Nordstrom also has a bunch of options at every price point. 
What you should look for in a parka:

• Water repellent
• Two-way zipper
• Removable hood (bonus points if the faux fur is removable, too)
• Down or synthetic fill (check out the Land's End post to see which is right for you) 
• I also love that the cuffs of my coat, the lining around the neck and the lining of the pockets are a warm, cozy fleece. It makes all the difference. This coat from Bloomingdale's even has thumb holes. 
• Look for a coat with figure flattering stitching. My parka has diamond stitching which supposedly has a slimming effect. This splurge of a coat has great, slimming stitching. Mine also has a belt (like this one) so I can cinch my waist giving me some resemblance to a human rather than a marshmallow blob. 
• Opt for a dark, neutral color. This will show dirt/wear less and will also be more slimming. Darker colors, ideally black, can also look a tad dressier if you will be wearing this over your work outfits.
• Pay attention to length. I have a short length from Lands End that I wore in Virginia for college (an entirely warmer climate) and the mid-length. I actually opted not to get a super long ankle length because I felt like I would be too restricted with my movement; but I think if you live in an area such as Chicago, the ankle length might make a lot of sense.
• Hint: if you are getting a short down coat, check out the boy's options (like this and this). L or XL usually fit perfectly (I'm a women 2/4).  

Hopefully everyone is staying warm and toasty inside and those who are out braving the cold, I hope you've got your parka on. Have a fabulous day! 

Yours,