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Five ways to dress for the colder weather in style

Woman wearing coat - Edward Berthelot
Woman wearing coat - Edward Berthelot

Is it ever truly possible to look stylish in a snowstorm? For some it may not feel like a priority, but for many it is a necessity – who wants to turn up at the board meeting, the Christmas lunch or the charity carol concert with icy hair and soggy layers?

As the Troll of Trondheim hits the UK, with highs of one degree by Sunday, there are a few clever wardrobe hacks worth employing. It’s time to layer up the smart way, whatever your plans.


The cold commuter

Can you think of a December cross-breeze as sharp as that blown across the platform, by a passing freight train, at 6am?

A commuter who’s committed to his suit in all weathers should invest in an additional hidden layer: the quilted liner. Slimline, but with a decent tog count, the vest provides extra insulation without spoiling the cut of your jacket.

Colour choice is very important for this particular item. Arket’s version comes in orange (too life-jackety) or in turquoise (a bit charity-worker vest), but also in classic navy, grey and green.

The cosy homebody

It’s draughty around the house, and thus tempting to pad around in a mash-up of layers. Instead, try an elevated fleece.

This is not a tatty fleece, matted with stains and faded in the wash. This is a statement piece, offering a pop of colour to make basic leggings look like something when Gail from next door knocks to collect her parcel.

Plumo’s gilet range is unparalleled (pick from a spectrum of colours) or see Roksanda’s collaboration with Barbour for the ultimate hoodie.

The chilly caroler

Maybe it’s a night at the theatre with friends, or carols by candlelight at the local church. You’re technically indoors, so to keep your puffer coat on would be wrong, yet if you take it off you’ll freeze.

This dress code calls for a stylish, warm jacket that can be the outfit, layered with fine knitted tops or even thermals underneath. Zara has hefty boucle options, all fully lined, and with flecky colours to suit all.

Layers
Layers

Left to right: Quilted liner vest, £59, Arket.com; Hoodie, £130, Roksanda x Barbour at net-a-porter.com; Textured blazer, £32.99, zara.com

The brisk errand runner

There are occasions where only a heavy duty puffer will do. Whether taking the dog for a brisk walk or dashing to the supermarket for more hot chocolate supplies, the priority is finding a coat that feels like a duvet.

There are options for all budgets on the high street, but if you’re looking for something more special Paloma Wool’s tie-waist, tie-dye jacket, or a bold colour jumbo coat from Marni and Uniqlo’s collaboration would up the ante.

The frozen football fan

Beer gardens aren’t as warm as they used to be. You may have plans to watch the next England game at the pub, intending to soak up the atmosphere of at least the first half outside before coming back inside to defrost.

As well as thermals and jumpers, why not wear a brushed wool jacket and another coat on top? Reiss’s smart checked style is perfect – the pattern will serve to break up all the layers.

Layers
Layers

Left to right: Eclipse puffer jacket, £270, libertylondon.com; Check zip coat, £178, reiss.com