I would recommend Patagonia performance baselayers. Lightweight, enviro friendly, and you can choose synthetic (what they call Capilene) or natural merino wool. Patagonia quality is unmatched by any other brand (definitely avoid Eddie Bauer if quality is a concern; LL Bean is still ok). Plus, Patagonia makes women's apparel to fit from the ground up instead of just sizing down men's.
www.patagonia.com
You might want to layer with a midweight fleece and an outer shell. For cold and wet, you'll also want waterproof shoes. All of Romelle's points are great.
Originally Posted by
Romelle
Land's End rates their cold weather gear by temperature. Their parkas and snow pants are really well made and effective.
www.landsend.com The warmest is rated for -15 to -40 F. And you can search on the rating.
REI has some good long underwear. I like their silk ones, for the very light weight and comfort.
www.rei.com
I'm thinking maybe whatever you wear on the plane doesn't have to count in your 35 pounds?
Pay particular attention to your feet. Sorrel boots are very popular in MN. Also UGG. Combined with wool socks.
Mitts of course, rather than gloves, since your fingers will share warmth with each other.
Something that covers your face - those ski hats that roll down and just have holes for eyes, nose and mouth.
And your head, since heat rises. If it is not properly covered, it is the greatest source of heat loss.
Romelle