And just like that, it’s dark and cold again! Winter outfits are more stylish and easier to put together. However, can we possibly look nice outside when it’s freezing? Cold winters can take all the excitement out of dressing, as many choose warm and cozy over style. Unless, we do not have to choose. You can stay warm without sacrificing style at all. Learning to stay warm while looking nice and put together is a key requirement.
It’s time for coats, warmer sweaters, scarves, and gloves to wrap up in. Below are cold-friendly tips to stay warm during the Winter season:
Layers
The 4+1 Layering Rule
Layering is the key to surviving a cold winter without giving up on style. When layering your clothes, imagine layering the components of a cake. Everything has to be in the right place to work to avoid moving around like the Michelin Man. You should never wear more than 4 layers, with a small exception for when it is really, really cold: 4+1.
How to layer your clothes effectively:
Bottom Layer – This will come directly in contact with your skin. The main purpose is to keep you dry and deal with your sweat. Nothing is worse than starting to sweat while wearing layers designed to keep the moisture in. Oops! Choose a light fabric. Silk or cotton are great options!
A nice pair of tights won’t just keep you toasty, but will also help you achieve a leaner silhouette. There are plenty of choices. Cashmere, opaque, detailed or total shaper tights will get a better result than purple goose-bumped bared legs.
Middle Layer – The purpose here is to retain body heat to protect you from the cold. The general rule of thumb is to choose a thicker garment for this layer as it will better insulate. Knitted sweaters are my go-to option here.
Top Layer – To shield you from wind and rain when needed. Wool or down coats are perfect when you spend time outside.
Accessories – Adding cute accessories is also a great way to elevate your style in any outfit.
Choose the right fabrics
What are the best fabrics to wear in winter and stay warm
When it comes to staying warm, wool is your best option. It keeps moisture away from the skin and is very good at trapping heat. For example, Merino wool is incredibly comfy and long-lasting. Cashmere is the most luxurious version and feels wonderful due to its softness. Cashmere sweaters aren’t the easiest to look after, but they look the smartest. Alpaca is less common but beautiful and definitely worth your attention. Lambswool comes at a better price point.
Why wool sweaters pill?
The formation of fuzzy balls on the surface of wool clothes is called pilling and may imply a worn-out look. It is caused by friction on extra fibers present in natural textiles such as wool. It is important to understand that it is absolutely not a sign of low quality. Quite the contrary! The presence of pilling indeed confirms that delicate and fine fibers created the fabric. The more valuable the material, the more it will pill. Because a sweater will pill from rubbing during wear, it most often occurs on the elbows, armpits, sleeves, and sides.
How to prevent pilling on wool sweaters
As mentioned above, some pilling on real wool sweaters is expected. However, there are some tips to help to prevent the formation of pills.
Turn your wool clothes inside-out before washing (a very gentle hand wash is a must with delicate fibers such as wool).
Fabric softeners are not recommended as they may increase the formation of pills as the fibers relax.
When possible, try to minimize abrasion while wearing wool (for example, choosing a handbag over a crossbody bag).
3 easy ways to remove pilling
The formation of pills is a gradual process. Taking care of a few at a time on a regular basis is much easier than removing huge amounts on several sweaters once a year. So if you have a new sweater, try to remove, by hand, the very first pills that may form after a few wears. This way, your new sweater will stay in immaculate condition for longer.
The most effective way of giving wool, especially cashmere, garments new life is to use a pilling comb. Very carefully comb the fuzz away from the surface of your wool sweater a few times. It will thoroughly remove the lumps without ruining the fabric.
You can easily find small battery-operated pill removers available to buy, also called fabric shavers. However, I never found them very effective, and the battery seems to run out quite quickly.
The Turtleneck Sweater
When it’s cold outside, a turtleneck (preferably in cashmere) is a must. It’s actually a favorite garment of all time, and you should have them in many colors. In Italy, a turtleneck is referred to as
“Dolcevita”
Legend says it takes its name from the final scene of its namesake movie by Fellini. Mastroianni is on a beach wearing a black shirt and a foulard of the same color. From the far eye of the camera, they blended into one, coming across as a turtleneck. If this romantic explanation isn’t enough to get you to buy one, then what is. From the sweater girls of the ‘40s and ‘50s, who wore them extremely tight to enhance their curves, it’s with the existentialism of the ‘60s that the turtleneck became a feature of every French highbrow circle. The turtleneck became the IT garment of minimalist fashion that fought for cultural and social emancipation – especially for women. Under a blazer or a loose sweater, or on its own, a turtleneck will keep you warm and stylish. The latest mode is to wear it tucked into a pair of high-waisted trousers. Be sure you stock plenty of them, not overlooking the sweater dress version.
The Difference between a turtleneck and a high-neck sweater
Turtleneck: neck material piece folds over on itself.
High-neck: neck material piece stands straight without folding over on itself.
Double Sweaters, Why Not
According to outfit etiquette, the sweater should be a focal point of your ensemble. Nevertheless, the latest fashion trends teach us that as it gets colder, the double sweater look can be the ace up your sleeve. Yes, you absolutely can wear two sweaters at the same time, as long as you pay attention to proportions, colors, and materials. Ideally, you will pair a slim, fine-knit sweater with an oversized, chunky one. A fool-proof combo is the dolcevita sweater (see the point above), cleverly worn under a chunky long cardigan.
Wear a Faux or Fur Coat to brave the coldest days
The truth is that a nice wool coat may not be enough for the coldest days, and your bulky puff coat might be a bit too casual. A faux fur coat can be an excellent solution to staying warm and stylish at the same time. For special occasions or holidays during the colder months, it’s a lifesaver! Soft, warm, and cozy faux fur coats are available in many models and colors. Choose the perfect one for you to stay warm all winter long.
It is worth mentioning, also, how accessories will complete your looks while also helping you stay warm. Hats and scarves are obvious! When it comes to hats, you have choices galore. The most sophisticated and elegant pick is a Borsalino wool hat. Wear large scarves or ponchos stylishly over a sweater or wool coat. Gloves will keep your hands warm, and pay attention to your choice of footwear. For instance, opting for tall boots under a dress.
Oh, and if it’s cold and sunny…don’t forget your sunglasses!
Adapted from: Important Enough
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