Want to know the key to looking cool this winter? It's not about planning all your outfits days in advance, buying into a bunch of new trends, or nailing down a precise

layering combo. While all of those things will definitely help you to achieve a good cold-weather look, it's actually much simpler than that. In all the research I've done on Instagram, I've found that the coolest winter outfits come down to a few key (and on-trend) wardrobe staples. 

I'm not saying you need to go out and buy all of the things I'm highlighting here (my wallet hurts at the thought), but hopefully you'll see how swapping in one of these of-the-moment pieces will totally upgrade your outfits for the rest of the season. Whether it be wearing leather pants in lieu of your usual jeans or opting for some practical-chic chunky boots, scroll through to see the eight must-have pieces to keep you warm, snug, and stylish, and fill up on styling ideas from our favorite fashion people.