How can you tweak your wardrobe to keep yourself warm this winter, without having to spend an arm and a leg?
As the temperature has finally began to dip following an unusually warm autumn, you may be staring at your wardrobe wondering how on earth do I make use of my clothes to make sure I’m warm? I do this every year, whilst staring into a wardrobe full of a stack full of clothes wholly inapprorpiate for the cold weather…
This got me thinking, apart from pulling the thermals out, what can you do to your wardrobe to keep yourself warm during the winter? There are so many ways you can utilise your clothes from spring, summer and autumn in winter, you just have to have an open mind and be creative.
At this point, you may be reading this and feeling absolutely horrified. Yes, yes I do mean your summer clothes that you’ve shoved to the back of your wardrobe in disgust as soon as the temperature dropped below 15 degrees. And now it’s time to dig them back out again.
But, of course I don’t mean wearing T-shirts and hot pants in 5 degrees Celsius. What I love the most about winter fashion is that it allows you to layer up various pieces of clothing, and experiment with colour and different textures, from faux fur, leather and suede to name a few. After all, that’s what fashion is all about – experimentation and having a bit of fun. You just have to be brave enough to take the plunge and try it!
Winter is the perfect opportunity to layer up.
Layer using summer clothes
Don’t just give your summer dresses an outing during the summer months. Instead, consider using them as a way of layering and introducing some colour to your winter outfit.
The key is to start layering lighter items of clothing if the weather is feeling mild, such as a classic autumn/winter wardrobe staple: the polo neck top, under a chic maxi dress. As the weather begins to turn, swap the polo-neck top for a thicker jumper.
If your dress has a low neckline, you have the option of opting for a V-neck jumper to create interest at the neckline, or a high polo-neck jumper – the choices are endless, and each one looks incredibly stylish.
Zara dress, £39.99 | M&S ribbed jumper, £17.50 | Vagabond boots, £100 [via Office] | Aldo crossbody bag, £45
Experiment with texture
When it’s nearing sub-zero temperatures outside, it is paramount to up your layering game. It’s a good idea to begin each outfit with an insulating base layer, such as a long-sleeve top and a pair of tights. Then, wear your normal outfit over the top of this to give yourself an protection from the ice-cold elements of the Great British winter weather.
Mixing colours and textures are a great way to inject some personality into your outfit, and autumn/winter is the perfect time of year to get stuck in.
For example, riding on the ever-popular animal print wave, team a leopard print top or jumper underneath a warm coat. Although, it’s important to bear in mind that if you opt for a jumper, remember to choose an easy-to-remove layer to avoid overheating when you’re indoors! Team the rest of the outfit with a classic black jeans and leather boot combo – not to mention a statement bag too!
Remember: The crucial factor is to ensure you have some fun – fashion is all about breaking boundaries and letting your creative juices flow!
Zara coat, £95.99 | M&S leopard print top, £25 | M&S high-waisted jeans, £19.50 |Office boots, £60 | Fiorelli crossbody bag, £59 [via Debenhams]
Sports luxe it out
When it comes to layering, consider incorporating some of the ever-popular sports luxe trend into your outfit. Whether you’re heading to the office or a Christmas party donned in sequins, or even just popping to the shops, consider adding a hoodie to your outfit. It may sound a tad odd, but you’ll be surprised at just how stylish an outfit can look, even with such a casual addition to your #OOTD.
This kind of look is perfect for the simplistic monochrome trend – a timeless look that never goes out of style. (See below for an example). Not only does it look great, it provides an all-important layer to your look to keep you feeling toasty, even when the temperature plummets.
M&S checkered coat, £99 | M&S grey high-waisted jeans, £19.50 | New Look drawstring hoodie, £17.99 | Adidas originals “Nizza Lo”, £60 [via JD]| Fiorelli black crossbody bag, £59
What’s your favourite look? Will you be adding any of these styles to your wardrobe in the New Year?
With love,
Victoria x
Victoria Affleck 