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There's no more denying it, summer is over. But not only that, fall is nearing an end (or at least it feels that way) which means it's time to get serious about staying warm. Forget those summer dresses, even with tights and boots -- it's all about the new cozy pieces which still have sex appeal and are forever chic. Here, a top 10 list of what you must have in your closet to keep you happy and hot, our two favorite things.

If you know me, or have ever read anything I've ever written, you know I'm a summer girl. The cold makes me, well, it makes me cold. And cold makes me miserable. So all winter I strive to be warm, like I just arrived in hell, warm. Just looking at this cozy knit sweater made me sweat a bit. I'm so excited to pair it with a pair of black leather shorts, tights and booties. Of course this will all be hidden under a giant long coat. Yes, winter, I think I may be OK with you after all.

Yes, darlings, have absolutely no fear, as this is faux fur. But nonetheless, it's beyond warm and looks beyond fabulous. Whether you are going out for a big soiree in a long dress and heels or are planning on boozing it up in jeans and boots to watch the game with the boys, you'll need this. Really, you need it.

You know those cold days where your eyes are watering and your teeth even hurt from the temperatures? Well this is one way to make those moments a bit more tolerable. You can wear it as a scarf, as shown, or on your head as a hood. But if you're bone-chillingly freezing, pull it around your face so only a minimal piece of skin is fighting the elements. You'll still look good no matter how goofy you feel.

Before you completely dismiss the idea of sporting these, consider this: you have a date, it's a blizzard, you want to look sexy, cozy and cute. Now, why wouldn't you fall for these? So sweet with shorts and layered over tights or even sexier with knee or thigh-high boots and dresses.

Who doesn't love a two-in-one deal? You can wear them long, above your elbow with capes and thin layered tops or scrunch them down with your bulky outerwear. Either way you do it, you'll be warm and you look super-duper-chic. It's a win-win situation.

It's no secret, walking in heels on ice or snow isn't exactly a cinch (or quite safe). But when you have gorgeous (and warm) wool booties like these, you'll take whatever chances necessary. Plus, it's an extra excuse to hold on tight to those around you. Not so daring? Keep them for those treachery-free days.

Since I have over 3,402 reasons why this is a necessity for winter and very little room to write, I will give you the top reasons and hopefully they'll be enough to convince you. In no particular order: it's warm, sexy and alluring all without being over-the-top, and all the while being classically easy to wear from day to night.

Sweatpants have never been something I've felt any sort of love or admiration for. I've avoided them for years and winced at them in airports, store windows and on the street. Not entirely sure how, or when, but suddenly my fear has diminished and I'm fallen in lust with said pants. Yes, I am in love with a sweatpant. And you will be too. These things don't say "cutie" on the bum and aren't in pastel colors. They are simply great worn with a blazer and so beyond good with heels or boots. Go for it.
Ah, the hat. It does so much for us, yet seems to escape any credit whatsoever. It keeps heat within the body while covering up your most tragic hair day. Don't just toss it off once you get inside, plan it as an accessory to be worn all day. Go with your hair down or all tucked inside and push the hat back so you can see your hairline. Voila! A thank you to this bad boy may be in order at the end of the day.

If you've been searching the world over for a new winter coat only to be left overwhelmed and unimpressed, here is your solution. It's an insanely warm, sleek coat that you will have, and cherish, for ages. Gone are the days of looking like a stuffed sleeping bag walking down the street, cold weather never looked this good.

Nicole Fasolino spends her days doing freelance styling and creative direction and is the Fashion Director of the magazine Un-titled Project. By sunset she can be found behind the camera, snapping photos for her love-filled 365 Heartbeats Project, writing for her Where There Is Love There Is Life blog -- always with her bear-sized 11-month-old son, Luca, propped on her hip. Smile, laugh or say the word "love" around her, and she'll immediately ask you to tell her something about your heart as she takes your picture.