Reddit mentions of PEARL iZUMi Thermal Lite Glove, Black, Medium

This is what I figured out via trial and error over the last year of full-time commuting in NYC (~15F - ~100F temp range). I probably only kind of count as cost conscious. There might be cheaper alternatives to some of this stuff.

• Feet: SPD cleats ($55). They're fine, but a bit small. I may upgrade them this year to something around $100.
  
• add waterproof socks (~$30) if it's raining. Don't bother with overshoes for waterproofing, they don't work well enough. Embrace wet shoes and just keep your feet dry.
  
• add neoprene overshoes if it very cold (<25 F) ($25)
  
• Legs: Jeans or khakis or whatever I'm wearing to work the day
  
• Add long johns if it's below 25F ($15 from Uniqlo)
  
• Add waterproof pants ($52) if it's raining
  
• I have cycling shorts ($35), but never wear them for commuting, only long rides.
  
• Top: T-shirt or whatever I'm wearing to work that day in optimal weather
  
• Cheap, non-cotton shirt in warm weather (~$10)
  
• Cycling-specific jacket if it's cold or cold and raining ($75). If it's raining and warm, I just get wet and bring a change of clothes.
  
• Add long-sleeve t-shirt if it's pretty cold ($15 from Uniqlo)
  
• Add merino wool sweater if it's very cold ($30 from Uniqlo)
  
• Head: Helmet
  
  • Add cycling cap if it's raining ($15, it keeps the rain out of your eyes)
    
  • Add skull cap if it's below ~35F ($12)
    
  • Add face mask if it's below ~30F ($22)
    
• Hands: Gloves (none or any combination of teh following depending on how cold it is and if it's raining)
  
  • Fingerless, padded ($17)
    
  • Liners ($12)
    
  • Proper waterproof gloves ($35) for when it's cold and raining