The colder months are here again, and it’s a perfect excuse to refresh your wardrobe with some functional, fashionable pieces. Many people actually prefer autumn and winter for its fashion opportunities; and it’s certainly a chance to dress up again, have fun with layering and accessories, and generally enjoy the fantastic range of colours, textures and fabrics that grace the shops every year. The fact that winter signals the party season is also a great bonus, and everyone loves to treat themselves to a new dress or outfit to enjoy their office and Christmas parties!
Sorting the basics
Colder weather means that you need to get serious about functional clothing. This means protection against cold, rain and general bad weather. You may want to buy a couple of coats to suit different occasions. For example, a glamorous night time coat is ideal for throwing over a dress or party outfit as you enjoy a night on the town. Have fun with fabulous styles, such as a fun cape, or an elegant tuxedo style coat with a colourful lining. Choose fabrics which look sleek, but which provide warmth, such as real wool and cashmere.
When it comes to your outdoor and everyday coat, you don’t need to go retro in order to stay snug – such as this wonderful retro ski outfit spotted on the BBC.
However, you do want to stay warm with technical fabrics and layers. Look at brands such as Superdry for highly technical but lightweight pieces, that combine cutting-edge fabrics and manufacturing techniques for maximum protection against the elements, with multiple pockets and zippers for flexibility and easy usage. You’ll find the season’s latest colours and trends here too, so you needn’t look functional! Try teaming a cosy gilet or bodywarmer with a thick woollen scarf, hat and thick winter jeans, or opt for a thick parka-style coat with a deep hood and a fur lining, for absolute warmth on the colder days. You’ll see great inspiration if you take a gander at this article.
Evening wear
The dark nights and festive atmosphere positively demand a return to glitz and glamour! The classic staple choice is the little black dress, and you’ll find a vast range of variation and choice from this wardrobe basic – whether you’re seeking a simple silk mini-dress, a fifties inspired corset prom dress, a long and lavish maxi-dress or perhaps a simple shift with a great cut. Accessorise your dress with the latest jewellery and a colourful bag. You can also try laying up with a smart pashmina or scarf for any time spent outdoors and retain your glamorous look by investing in some leather or suede gloves. It’s still perfectly possible to look glamorous and stay warm! The trick at this time of year is to layer up as much as possible, so that you can add or shed layers as you switch between different temperatures and environments. And don’t forget the impact of a superb hat either – a classic French beret, a trilby, a knitted hat or a variety that suits you and adds style, individuality and some much needed warmth to your outfit!