Black Friday-Shopping Ideas for the Chicagoan or Visitor

It's really cold in Chicago today. Like step out the door take your breath away go back to bed cold. And it's Black Friday. Reason enough to stay in bed. I have a friend coming to stay with me for the weekend, this cold will be shocking to any visitor to the Windy City. It's shocking enough to the residents who are still hoping "this season the Cubs are going to win it". Ya, our seasons run together here in Chicago, we are a bit confused since it was 70 degrees last week.

So for the Chicagoan braving Black Friday today or the Chicago visitor, here are my must haves for you. Really, don't hit the streets of this City without.

1. A great winter coat. I have this coat by Steve Madden. Absolutely the warmest coat I've ever owned. I've worn it snowmobiling, sitting outside for winter sporting events and walking Michigan Avenue at night in December. Best. Coat. Ever. It has the warmth of down but is poly filled so suitable for those who don't want to wear anything made from animal.

2. An unlimited bus and "L" train pass. Chicago is a great walking city but not in the Winter unless you are wearing the coat above. If you are not, do yourself a favor and get a pass. Available in 1, 3, 7 or 30 day unlimited ride passes.  $14 for a 3 days pass is a bargain, you can get all over Chicago by hopping on the "L" and the buses up and down Michigan Avenue are perfect for holiday shopping.

3. Warm Boots. You can layer your clothes and blow on your fingers to warm them up, but having cold feet WILL ruin your time in Chicago. Do you want to visit the German Christkindl Market for warm spiced wine and shopping? Your feet better be warm because you will be outside at this market for hours. Fashion is great, but not really practical during Chicago winters. Ugg boots are incredibly warm, but completely impractical for wet, slushy, snowy conditions. Try Pac boots like Sorel. Here is a tip, if a construction worker or snowboard enthusiast would buy them, you are good to go.