Men's Winter Style Guide

Most men are more concerned with function than form (just the opposite of women).  For this reason, guys don't wear high heels  or anything with spaghetti straps.  That being said, it's inexcusable to look like a total fashion victim when you leave the house.  Winter poses a problem for practical-minded men.  They want to stay warm and most will sacrifice style if their toes are toasty.  Well, we're here to tell you it's possible to be warm and reasonably stylish at the same time. Read on for our suggestions:

Picks for Winter 2006
Pea Coat  This classic coat style works well with work casual clothes office clothes as well as your full weekend wardrobe. Best colors: black,  gray  and navy.  Looks terrific paired with a turtleneck sweater.	Urban Boots  Black boots that look like a they could be worn hiking or possibly on a motor cycle. Look for brands that his mid-calf with laces. Kenneth Cole,  Coach  and Dsquared2  all make this style.	Argyle Sweater  Best styles: v-necks  and crew neck.  Only very stylish men and Oxford professors should attempt the vest  or cardigan.  Pair with jeans, corduroy's or grey flannel trousers.	Wool Henley  Great layering piece, can be warn under a sweater or over a long sleeved tee. Best paired with causal pants. Abercrombie,  J Crew,  Gap  and Polo  are all brands that carry this style.	Zip Front Sweater  Much cooler than your dad's cardigan. Brought back by Hugo Boss,  Prada and John Varavatos.  Can be worn with a more casual sport coat (think corduroy). Wear with anything except your suit pants.

Outdoor Sports Gear

This gear is great for guys who like to tackle the great outdoors or those who simply enjoy watching the Packers at Lambeau Field.  If you need somplace to play MSNBC has a list of the top ten places to practice Winter Olympic events. Wool Socks:  Even when some snow sneaks into the boots, wool will keep your feet warm and dry. MSN's shopping guide has the LL Bean sock  as the most popular. Wool Cap:  We lose 90% of our heat through our heads--why not keep all that heat trapped inside? Altrec.com awards Patagonia,  Nike  and Spyder  with five gold stars. Insulated Gloves:  Find gloves that aren't too precious. Odds are you're going to lose one. Thermals : Also known as long underwear. Best friend of the outdoor sportsman. Down Parka:  Puffy and a they certainly won't make you look thin, but when your sitting through an ice fishing tournament you'll be glad to have these. Outside Magazine picked a Patagonia  jacket as the best parka.

External Links

• Forbes Magazine: Selects the ten coolest US ski resorts.
• Alternatively, Frommers.com lists the best Caribbean beaches if you want to escape the cold for awhile.
• The FDA:Tips for avoiding the flu this winter (hint: get that flu shot early!)
• Occunomix: Offers ideas for outdoor workers on how to keep warm.