Winterizing Blog #5: Winterizing Your Wardrobe

In the fall, when it is time to bring fall/winter outfits out of storage, it is like Christmas time for me. I love the array of colors and textures that the cooler weather wardrobe offers. I love mixing and matching all the different combinations. Bringing out the stored wardrobe creates a seemingly endless supply of new outfits.

This blog offers tips on how to winterize your wardrobe using favorite pieces mixed with cool weather pieces to create warmth, plus working in the necessary outer wear for cold snowy days.

Layering is the Key!!

In the winter time you may face many different temperatures from home, to work, your car or the bus, and outside. Layering is a simple way to stay comfortable with each temperature change. Your office heat may be on high today, simply remove a layer. Your classroom might be too cool.  Add a layer. Remember to make your base (bottom) layer one that can stand alone in the case you have to remove other top layers.

 

First layer.   Good first layers need to chosen with you individual comfort level in mind.  Some people are naturally warmer, others are naturally colder.  First layers might include thermal long shelve top, long sleeve tee, or turtle neck. If you are a naturally warmer person, the long sleeves may be too much, then go with a classic tee as your first layer.  For an even lighter first layer, go with a camisole, tank, or shell.  If you are wearing a tank as the first layer, make the second layer a lighter item so you can wear them both.

Tights/leggings make a good first layer under skirts, shorts, sundress, or a maxi skirt. , with boots and tall socks. Add an oversized sweater or cardigan and a scarf for a great winter look.  Jeans – a classic piece for any time of the year. Add a sweater, cardigan, blazer for a great layered look over your favorite tee. Jeans go great with any type of footwear. Got holes in your jeans? Although a bit breezy for the winter time, that is okay. Just add a pair of patterned leggings underneath for a fashionable statement.   Other legging options include: Corduroy, colored jeans, fleece lined jeans or leggings.

 

Second layer.  The second layer can be a flannel shirt, button up oxford, sweater, cardigan, jacket or blazer.  This layer is to add a little extra warmth, but is fashionable. Incorporate color and /or patterns in this layer if possible.

Third layer.  The third layer is the warm layer.  This layer can be a vest, cape, hooded parka, or a pea coat.  Be creative in mixing colors and textures among the different layers.

 

Accessories.  Don’t forget accessories, such as a scarf, belt, jewelry, and head gear.  Most jewelry is versatile and can spice us your outfit any time of the year.  Great scarves to use as a top layer include:  circle scarf, infinity scarf, knit scarf, square scarf, scarf wrap, Neckwarmer.

 

Working with Necessary Outer Wear

• Head gear – Knit caps are back!  They have always been here, but now they are being used as a fashion statement.  They are great for keeping warm, but can also be worn inside!  Some great choices include:  cable knit,  skull cap,  fleece, beanie cap, cuffed cap, bobble hat, slouchy hat, visor cap, and more.
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  Photo by thesweetthingblog.com

  Gloves – Gloves are a necessity to keep our hands warm.  Even with their functionality, they are a great accessory which can add to your overall look.  Choices include:  knit, fleece, and leather (always in style).

• Boots – Boots have evolved into fashion pieces too.  No longer are boots worn only for the purpose intended – cowboy boots, riding boots, combat boots, rain boots, Uggs – to name a few, are boots that can be paired with outfits.  For winter/cold weather look for Fur-lined or other insulated boots. You can also wear tall fuzzy socks or leg warmers to help bring the layered look down the legs – helping to balance out the look.

 

Closet Organization.  As you transition your wardrobe and fill your closet with winter pieces, organize your closet to make items easily accessible. Hang long items closest to the wall, this way you have room under the center items for boots or a shoe rack.  Hang scarves, while keeping gloves, mittens, and caps/hats in a drawer.  Note, some summer items can still be worn as a first layer under a sweater or jacket, so be sure to sort carefully – you don’t want to have to be digging through stored summer clothes for the favorite tank.