Other than hockey, it is often said that the unofficial national pastime of Canada is bitching about the weather. Torontonians, in particular, are known for their zealous hatred of all things too hot, too cold, and too comfortable to trust. When it comes to dressing, our borderline-schizophrenic climate can present numerous issues. How is a woman to build a wardrobe around weather that can fluctuate between sunny autumn one day and post-apocalyptic tundra the next?

The key is focusing on the basics. For ladies, this includes a staple coat to keep you warm, footwear that can survive the slush and salt, and some go-to layering pieces. Oh yes, and accessories. The biggest trends for winter 2014 include big silhouettes (think oversized fits, wide leg trousers, ponchos, and capes), fur, leather (or pleather, or vegan leather), and lots of black.

To help ensure you’re stylish this season, here are the top 10 winter essentials every woman should have for 2014…