How to Keep Warm and Stylish in Winter

How to Keep Warm and Stylish in Winter

Winter’s still here and with these freezing temperatures, staying warm doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style (just on some days). With the right approach to your layering, you can mix fashion with functionality. I try to as often as I can, and I make it work. So, let’s dive into how to keep warm and stylish in winter.

Budget-friendly Tips for Winter Style

Winter fashion doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg, no outfits do. With the right tactics and a keen eye for deals, you can maintain your winter style on a budget if you need to. It’s all about knowing where to look and when to make your purchase.

A significant part of the solution lies in discount codes for me and seasonal sales. For example, if there’s some cool new pieces of knitwear that I want, or a coat, or boots etc, from the shop called Charli, I will always look around online first for a coupon! Something will come up, like the Charli Discount Code and it’s a valuable weapon worth having if you want reasonable prices when shopping online. Discount codes are a fantastic way to make your money go further without trading style for affordability. I will never shop without one!

Sales are another smart way to go about it. Many stores offer end-of-season sales, and believe it or not, these are the perfect times to grab your winter essentials for the next year. I do this all the time. Don’t be afraid to buy winter clothes during spring or summer. In fact, it’s likely to be significantly cheaper.

Lastly, where can you find stylish winter clothes without breaking the bank? It’s the age-old solution – thrift stores. The key to thrifty shopping is being patient and persistent. You never know what gem you might find hidden among the racks.

Remember, winter style is attainable at any budget. It’s all about smart shopping, seizing the right opportunities, and refusing to pay full price whenever possible. So arm yourself with these budget-friendly tips and stay cosy, yet fashionable this winter.

Embrace Layering

Layering is time-tested, master-approved, and possibly the most strategic method of staying warm while still turning heads with your classy winter attire. It’s simple science, really: by wearing multiple thin layers of clothing, you trap warm air close to your body and hence, feel cosy. But beyond the science, layering also offers you a lot of options to mix and match your wardrobe in a way that’s completely unique to you.

So how do you morph this wintry survival tactic into runway-approved style? Easy, the keyword here being balance – it’s all about playing with different fabrics and textures. A good tip is to start with thin, comfortable fabrics like cotton or silk for your inside layers, like a fitted turtleneck. Follow this up with heftier fabrics for your middle layer, where vests and cardigans come into play. These layers can be removed easily, allowing you to adjust according to your comfort as temperatures rise or fall throughout the day.

Speaking of essential pieces, turtlenecks are an underrated hero—not only do they add a clean, streamlined look to your outfit, but they also come in handy for hiding the fact that you’re wearing thermal pieces underneath! Vests, whether dressy or casual, can add a chic, polished twist to a work outfit. Cardigans, on the other hand, make for a casual and comfortable mid-layer, while also being versatile enough to be matched with practically anything in your closet.

So remember, winters are all about stacking up, one stylish layer at a time, while maintaining a balance that won’t leave you looking like the Michelin Man. Layer up, stay warm, and most importantly, do it in style! This is my absolute go to when it’s really cold.

Fabrics That Offer Warmth and Style

One detail you can’t overlook when discussing winter fashion is the fabric. The material your clothes are made from not only impacts their overall style but also their convenience, comfort, and warmth.

Top Warm Fabrics

Wool:

• Both traditional and merino wool are celebrated for their stylish warmth.
• This natural fibre is breathable and provides impressive insulation.
• Ideal for sweaters, scarves, hats, and coats.

Cashmere:

• Offers a luxurious feel and supreme warmth.
• Considered a great choice for special occasion sweaters or scarves.
• Though pricier, it’s worth the investment for those looking to treat themself.

Fleece:

• Don’t sideline it for being too casual.
• Technological advancements have transformed fleece into sleek and fitted pieces.
• Suitable for both outdoor adventures and city life.

Sustainable Fabric Choices

In this age of environmental consciousness, there are plenty of sustainable fabric choices for a guilt-free, eco-friendly winter style. Consider these:

• Recycled cashmere and wool
• Organic cotton
• Cruelty-free faux fur

These options result in less waste and harm to the environment while keeping you stylish.

Lightweight and Breathable Options

While warmth is a priority, lightweight options are essential, especially if you transition between intense outdoor cold and heated indoors throughout the day. Consider:

• Cotton and Rayon Blends: Provide insulation without heavy weight.
• Silk: Offers a lightweight yet warm layering option.
• Certain Synthetics: Designed to provide warmth with minimal bulk.

Accessorise Smartly

Now that we’ve got the basics of layering and fabric selection covered, let’s focus on something that can really make your outfit pop—accessories. The beauty of winter accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats is that, besides injecting your ensemble with a hefty dose of style, they provide extra warmth, making them integral to winter dressing.

When it comes to choosing accessories, there is always room for creativity. However, a good rule of thumb is to try and complement your outfit, either through matching or tastefully contrasting colours, patterns, or textures. A vibrant, chunky knit scarf, for instance, can really liven up a plain winter coat. On the other hand, a minimalist, monochrome hat or pair of gloves can add understated elegance to a bold, patterned outfit.

As fashion is ever-evolving, trends in accessories shift with each passing winter, offering exciting new avenues for style exploration. From statement scarves featuring bold geometric patterns to slouchy beanies in nuanced hues, the winter accessory universe is your oyster. And let’s not forget about the timeless classics like leather gloves and cashmere mittens that never go out of style.

However, while trends can offer refreshing style choices, it’s crucial to prioritise comfort and functionality. After all, as Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, puts it, “The most fashionable hat is no good if it leaves your ears icy or the latest style of gloves completely useless if they can’t keep your fingers warm.”

Overall, the art of accessorising in winter is to blend the new with the tried-and-true, all while not compromising on the prime objective—staying snug and warm. So, go ahead and smarten up your winter outfits with accessories that add an extra layer of style and heat. I personally always opt for mittens as they make your hands warmer, just a little top tip!

Footwear That Combines Comfort and Fashion

When winter is in full force, the ground beneath us transforms into a challenging terrain of snow and ice, as we’ve seen recently. Skillfully navigating through this landscape requires footwear that not only ensures sure footing but also complements your winter ensemble. The good news is you don’t have to trade off style for comfort.

Boots, in all their various renditions, are your best friend during winter months. Ankle boots, knee-high boots, riding boots, and even UGGs can channel some cosy vibes while keeping your feet enveloped in warmth, as I’ve recently found out. If you follow me on Instagram, you will have seen that since last year, the only boots I am favouring during the cold months are UGGs. I cannot be without them for warmth! I didn’t like them at first as they’re so common and a very basic shape, but their comfort and warmth outweighs all of that, and it’s about how you style them.

For effortless chic though, opt for Chelsea boots. Feeling a bit adventurous? Lace-up combat boots can give you that edgy look without compromising practicality.

High-top sneakers also make a viable option for milder winter conditions. They provide great ankle support and can be a fashionable twist to your winter getup. Just make sure they’ve got some solid traction for slippery sidewalks.

When selecting winter footwear, beyond looking at the style quotient, consider the warmther-intrinsic features of the shoe. Look for insulated linings, water-resistant uppers, and anti-slip soles. Materials like leather, suede, and faux fur make good choices for warm, stylish footwear.

And lastly, pairing your winter footwear with your outfit is an art. Your footwear should echo the overall theme you’re aiming for. Ankle boots pair well with skinny jeans, creating a sleek silhouette. Knee-high boots are great for dresses and skirts, lending a touch of elegance. Combat boots give an edgy contrast to feminine outfits, while high-tops fitted with warm socks can jazz up a casual look.

By carefully choosing your winter footwear, you’re stepping into the season with both style and substance, and ensuring you’ll make it through slush and snow in fashionable comfort.

Outerwear That Makes a Statement

In the grand scheme of wintertime style, outerwear is the undeniable sultan. It’s the piece that gets the most exposure, both to the icy elements and to the general public. This makes it crucial for your winter coat to deliver warmth, but who says it can’t deliver a hefty dose of chic?

The world of winter coats is diverse, featuring both flamboyant and understated species. Some safe and stylish options include trenches, pea coats, and parkas. A well-selected piece from these wardrobe workhorses can keep you toasty warm while still looking breezy cool.

In terms of trends, faux fur, puffer jackets, and tailored coats are getting cozy with the fashion crowd this winter. Faux fur, with its inviting texture and dramatic flair, offers Hollywood-ish glam without the animal guilt. I am living in mine! They are literally the warmest! Puffer jackets? Sure, they might look vaguely like winter camping gear, but in a ruggedly appealing way. Plus, these babies are loftier than cloud condos, guaranteeing maximum warmth. Tailored coats, on the other hand, offer sleek lines and a put-together look that’s tough to beat.

So you’re on board for style, but what about the price? Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, a discount code platform, emphasises that “the internet is a veritable treasure chest of discounts for affordable, high-end outerwear.” Hunt around – you’ll find serious style steals and still have money to spare for a hot chocolate, or three. Always check for the quality of materials, construction, and design too though. A designer name on the tag doesn’t automatically equal a great fit or durability.

Remember, your coat is your winter-weather envoy. It holds court with the world before even you do. So take some time, do some homework, and invest in outerwear that speaks your language of style. I cannot get enough of my faux fur, puffer coats, or heavy duty padded coats.

Trending Winter Colours and Patterns

Winter fashion isn’t limited to blacks and grays – not when there’s a whole spectrum of seasonal palettes to explore! Style mavens have identified jewel tones and earth colours as the hot shades this winter. From royal amethyst to garnet red, midnight sapphire to emerald green, these rich, vibrant colours embody the luxurious warmth needed during the cold months. On the other side, we find comfort in earthy tones like muted moss, charcoal, cocoa, and ochre, blending our aesthetic with nature’s winter backdrop.

Alongside a rich colour palette, patterns and prints are making a statement this season. Plaids and tartans remain classics for their versatility and timeless appeal, while avant-garde lovers might reach out for abstract print sweaters or animal-print coats. Knit patterns, from the generous cable knit to the dainty Fair Isle, create visual texture and allure.

Remember, fashion is personal. As much as trends tell us what’s in, it’s your individual style that counts at the end of the day. If you’re a minimalist, there’s no pressure to don a zebra-print faux fur because it’s trending. Instead, try incorporating small pops of colour or print in your accessories or stick to monochromes in jewel tones. Conversely, if a vibrant mix of colours and prints is up your alley, go wild! Just ensure to balance out your prints and solids for a harmonious ensemble.

Trending colors and patterns are about embracing change while maintaining a sense of self. Never shy away from experimenting – you may just stumble upon your new favorite winter style. Remember, the goal is to stay warm and stylish, but most importantly, true to yourself.

DIY Ideas: Refreshing Your Winter Wardrobe

Among fashionistas and eco-conscious consumers alike, the do-it-yourself (DIY) wave has hit hard. And why not? Today, we’re all about giving new life to old staples. Plus, it can be pretty self-satisfying and easier on the wallet. So let’s discuss some DIY hacks to refresh and repurpose your winter wardrobe, making it as functional as it is fashionable.

First, don’t underestimate the potential of embellishments. Grab some cute cloth patches or maybe even some rhinestones, and add them to your old sweater or jacket. This minor tweak not only gives it a refreshing look but it also personalises your winter wear. Just remember, less is often more in this case.

Second, put on your tailor hat and consider minor modifications. Perhaps that long coat could be a short one? Or those straight-leg jeans might look chicer as cropped jeans? A bit of trimming here, a new seam there, and Voila! You have a new outfit. Just be sure not to pull a Jack Skellington on the stitching!

Need a new scarf for the cold days? Why not transform that old, oversized flannel shirt you’ve been lounging in. Our secret tip – you don’t even need a needle and thread. Couldn’t get any easier than that, could it?

These tweaks are not just about being style-smart, but they’re also perfect for the environmentally conscious. Every piece of clothing that gets a second or third run helps reduce clothing wastage, making our style choices more sustainable.

So there you have it, a few simple DIY hacks to give your existing winter wear a fresh spin. Remember, the devil is in the details so those simple touches can bring a drastic change to your winter style. Plus, there’s an added bonus – you get to reduce, reuse and recycle, helping the fashion industry become a little more environmentally friendly. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, break out your creativity, and give your winter wardrobe a uniquely ‘you’ touch!

Conclusion

Let’s clear the fog on keeping warm while looking cool during winter. When it comes down to it, you don’t have to trade style for comfort. With a little bit of planning, a knack for layering, and a smart choice of fabrics, you’ll become a pro at nailing that much-coveted winter fashionista look.

Embrace layering as your go-to strategy. It permits you to combine different textiles and pieces, leading to a dynamic, interesting look. Remember, the primary goal is to keep warm, so don’t shy away from those turtlenecks, vests, and cardigans—they’re your best allies against the cold.

Go for fabrics like wool, cashmere, and fleece that are known for their warmth. Don’t forget to consider sustainable fabric options—style doesn’t have to harm the environment. Lightweight options can also find a place in your winter wardrobe to balance out the heavy weights.

Make the most of winter accessories. Scarves, gloves, and hats are not just appendages; they can complement your outfit and accentuate your overall look. Be open to experimenting with winter trends—they’re there for you to savour and own.

Winter footwear can be a tricky affair. Remember to look for options that offer both style and safety. Boots and high-tops can make a chic statement while giving you the required traction.

Your winter coat is arguably the centerpiece of your outfit. Look for coats that are warm and stylish, adhering to trends like faux fur, puffer jackets, and tailored coats. Also, quality and cost-effectiveness should be considered while making your selection.

Lastly, keep your eyes on the trending winter colours and patterns. Jewel tones and earth colours are making waves this season. Balance these trendy patterns with your personal style to maintain a cohesive look.

Don’t be afraid to dip your toes in the DIY world to incorporate a personal touch in your winter wear. Remember, refreshing your wardrobe is also an environmentally friendly move.

So, wrap up in style this winter and step out with confidence. Mix and match, add a dash of personal flair to trending styles, and plan your winter wardrobe well. Just make sure you’re warm!