This has been an exceedingly odd year, but it is almost over at last, and that means that winter is almost upon us, along with icy roads, cold, endless rains, grey November skies and short days. The best way to handle even a hint of winter blues is to dress for the occasion, so you are warm and dry and – best of all – stylish and looking good, no matter the weather! So what are our top 5 essentials for winter? Let us have a look:
Boot Up
Decent winter boots that will keep your feet warm and dry are an absolute must. Buy the best pair that you can afford, and make sure that the fit is perfect. Make a point of taking the socks or stockings that you will be wearing with the boots when you go to buy them, put both boots on, and walk about in them for about five minutes or so. In this way, you will feel if the boots are going to loosen up with wear or remain snugly fitted, and you will be able to choose the best fit – there is nothing more disappointing than finding your thick winter socks make your waterproof boots too tight! Expect to pay upwards of £25.00 for a good pair of boots.
One Coat is Enough
A stylish waterproof winter coat that covers your entire torso, and preferably falls at least to mid-thigh, if not longer, will mean that your indoor clothes remain clean and dry even if it is pouring at lunchtime when you pop out for a coffee or to run some errands. A coat that buttons right up to the neck will ensure that you do not catch a chill, and deep pockets can provide extra protection for your hands. Opt for waterproof, or at the very least, thick water-resistant fabrics so that your coat does not get wet, weighing you down and seeping through to your outfit. Budget friendly coats will set you back about £20.00, but if you can afford one for £50.00 or more, your future self will thank you for the long-term saving.
Stand Under Your Umbrella
Most cheap umbrellas last no longer than the first heavy rain shower, because strong winds tend to come along with rainfall. It does not take much for flimsy umbrellas to be turned inside out or buckled by the force of the wind. This is where a sturdy vented umbrella comes into play. The canopy is cunningly designed with two layers and vents that do not line up with each other, both layers funnelling the rain away from the centre of the umbrella. These vents allow the wind to pass through the umbrella instead of catching the canopy and tugging it out of your hands or inside out, so you can walk serenely, safe and dry without fighting your recalcitrant brolly! These umbrellas are not cheap, running at about £20.00 each, but they are well worth it, and will last for several years.
Gloves and Scarf – a Good Match
A cosy gloves and scarf set keeps the icy air away from exposed hands and vulnerable necks and chests, ensuring that your body heat is kept close to you and not whipped away by a wintry wind. If you are going to be walking outside a lot, thermal gloves and a matching scarf can make the walk an invigorating rather than demoralising one! Gloves and scarf sets are widely available and can be obtained for a few pounds, while the thermal or lined offerings tend to be about £10.00 or so.
Put Your Hat On!
It is widely known that you lose a lot of heat through your head in cold weather, if it is exposed to the elements. If you are not a fan of the woolly beanie, you do not have to wear one; there are a wide range of hat styles and shapes to choose from! Any hat will work well to keep your head warm and retain your body heat – but you may want to ensure a good fit on those windier days, to prevent it being blown off! Hats cost anything from around £5.00 for a basic beanie, up to over £100.00 for more expensive options, such as fedoras, bowlers and so on. Indulge your inner fashionista and experiment with hats until you find the one that suits you best!
These are our top 5 essentials for winter – can you think of other must-haves to get you through the winter months?
