The holidays are behind us and winter is in full swing. To see you through til spring, the QMS team presents our Guide to Winter: a roundup of cold-weather essentials, enduring layers, and the music, drinks, and rituals that make the season worth savoring.

Ethan's Recs

The Blackship

If you're doing Dry January, I commend you, but I'm going more damp this year. I am, however, trying to be a bit more intentional – if I'm going to have a drink, it'd better be a good one. So rather than reaching for the old standbys, I've been mixing up a new, slightly more involved cocktail that is worth the fuss.Meet the Black Ship, a fruity, full-bodied cocktail that pays homage to Japan’s whisky history.How to make it:

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz. Japanese Whiskey
  • 1 oz. Pomegranate Juice
  • 0.25 oz. Port
  • 1 tsp Lemon Juice

Instructions

Add all the ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake, and strain into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon.

Deep Sea Cooper Sweater

This time of year, I find myself reaching for indigo from my wardrobe most days. It goes with pretty much everything and layers well on these cold, dark days of winter. A recent favorite is our Deep Sea Cooper Sweater, which is a little more fun than a 1/4 zip or crewneck but is just as easy to wear over a tee or oxford.

Thomas's Recs

Yellow Fields (1976) - Eberhard Weber

While the name and cover project a more autumnal operation from the outside, the music within is fantastic listening on bitter cold evenings. The title track paints a beautiful landscape, but the synthesizer grounding the rhythm throughout "Sand-Glass" is arresting, calming, and meditative. Eberhard Weber was unstoppable in the '70's.

Acadia Polo in Olive/Cream Loopback Terry

The Acadia polo for 40% off? Time to stock up. I voted for this olive color when we picked our fall Acadia Polo collection last year and have been wearing mine proudly as soon as they came in. I will give an honorable mention to the Acorn/Cream Acadia as well, another handsome one that just hit the sale.

Mitch's Recs

Pierogis

Nothing helps beat the cold and grey New York winter like some doughy cheese and potatoes. Greenpoint, Brooklyn where our office and Flagship store are based is a predominantly Polish neighborhood, meaning there are lots of top notch pierogis spots right around the corner. You can’t go wrong with a couple of dumplings and a Borscht to warm you up and get you through the chillier months.

Merino Wool Guernsey Sweater in Navy

I added this to my wool sweater rotation this winter and have started to feel bad for all the other unworn sweaters in my closet… It’s a classic for a reason, and I’ve worn it at least once a week with no plan to stop all the way up till Spring. It’s made from a super sturdy merino wool that is warm when you want it to be but breathable when you need to cool down.

Lucas's Recs

Married to the Mob (1988)

If you're in the mood for a fun, wacky, yet brilliantly artful watch, I recommend Jonathan Demme's 1988 film Married to the Mob. It’s a sharp, offbeat crime comedy with an amazing cast, made even better by a killer David Byrne soundtrack. Try it for your next movie night, you won't regret it.

Camelhair Wool Blend French Workman's Jacket

For my Winter Sale pick, I'm going with the Camelhair Wool Blend French Workman's Jacket. It’s warm without feeling bulky, looks sharp, and has a smooth satin lining that gives you that luxurious feel. Grab one before they sell out.