Dressing for winter is a balancing act: it’s rare you’ll ever be the perfect temperature. One moment you step outside to see your breath hanging in the air, the next you’re packed into a sweltering, crowded train.
Luckily, a few smart wardrobe hacks can help with this seasonal conundrum. From thermal fabrics that keep you warm without bulk to breathable knitwear, these simple upgrades can transform your winter style while keeping you warm and cosy even on the coldest days.
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How to dress in cold weather
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The art of layering
Modal cashmere jumper
£49 at IntimissimiMastering layering is essential for winter, helping you move comfortably between fluctuating temperatures. A smart base layer is the perfect foundation, keeping in your body heat without weighing you down. Layer this ultralight cashmere blend jumper under sweater vests, dresses or another jumper to bring extra cosiness to any outfit. Cashmere’s fine fibres are soft and breathable without adding unnecessary bulk.
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Smart socks
Heattech socks
£7.90 at UniqloIf you’re spending prolonged periods standing outside, you’ll know that feet are the first thing to go cold and the last to recover. Uniqlo’s Heattech technology helps prevent that by absorbing and retaining your body heat while still allowing your feet to breathe.
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Sheer look, hidden warmth
Thermal fleece tights
£15 at M&SSheer tights are no longer reserved for mild spring afternoons. These fleece-lined tights give the illusion of sheer but with hidden warmth. With a pair of these, you’ll be able to carry your summer dresses straight through the coldest months without fear of catching a chill.
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Why wool wins
Wool coat
£229 at & Other StoriesWhen it comes to winter outerwear, wool is hard to beat. Its naturally crimped fibres create tiny insulating air pockets that trap heat, making it one of the warmest and most durable fabrics you can choose. Opt for higher-percentage wool blends for more warmth. This & Other Stories belted coat is 100% wool.
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Warmth without the fluff
Kenova boots
£145 at VagabondFurry shoes can be playful, but if you’d rather keep your shoes sleek and practical, try invisibly fur-lined boots instead. This pair has cosy insulation and maintains a classic chunky silhouette, with plenty of grip for icy winter days.
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The non-itchy winter knit
Alpaca rich top
£95 at M&SFor the ultimate winter knitwear, look for alpaca wool. Unlike sheep’s wool, it’s naturally water-repellent, helping to draw moisture away from the skin while keeping you warm. Another major benefit is that alpaca wool contains no lanolin, the waxy substance found in sheep’s wool that often causes irritation for those with sensitive skin. That means alpaca wool feels more luxurious without the itch. Top tip: whichever knitwear you go for, try to avoid acrylic-blend jumpers. Acrylic doesn’t breathe well, often leaving you sweaty and clammy.
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A vision of summer
Tort rose sunglasses
£55 at Le Specs £55 at SelfridgesSunglasses aren’t just for summer: the low angle of the sun can be blinding during winter months. This rose-tinted pair will add some summer sunshine back into the greyest days of January.
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Tech-forward gloves
Merino gloves
£15 at Sealskinz £12.92 at AmazonWearing gloves is essential at this time of year, but unfortunately smartphones exist. To avoid taking off your gloves every time you need to check the bus times, invest in a pair of touchscreen gloves. These from Sealskinz are 98% merino wool, so are guaranteed to be soft.
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A scarf you’ll live in
Wool blend scarf
£48 at Arctic Fox & CoWinter is not the time for little scarves: if you want to fend off the chill, your scarf should more closely resemble a blanket. This oversized scarf is made of 81% recycled materials including recycled plastic bottles, and each order helps fund the removal of plastic from the ocean.
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Swap out denim for corduroy
Cord barrel leg jeans
£79 at Nobody’s ChildCorduroy jeans are great winter warmers, as the ribbed texture naturally traps heat. This black pair is 100% organic cotton. Do keep in mind that corduroy can collect more lint because of its Velcro-like texture, so it’s best to keep a lint roller at hand.
For more, read the best coats for winter
