In terms of winter, the first months of the new year are known to be the most frigid, which demands a drastic shift in what to wear. Some opt for big, bulky coats, which detract from a great outfit. However, the classic, chunky but warm puffer jacket is not the only item that can be used to survive the bitter cold of Lancaster. Therefore, why sacrifice fashion for warmth when it is so easy to get both?
A great way to avoid the cold throughout the harsh winter months is by investing in thermals, which are base-layer clothing items designed to keep you warm. Thermals can be found at a low price anywhere: Walmart, Costco and even at your local thrift store. Arguably, thermals are the most important item in a winter wardrobe, as they can be layered under t-shirts or dresses to transition summer items into the new season.
If you do not have thermals, leggings can be layered under any pair of baggy pants to add an extra layer of warmth. Turtlenecks also make great thermals and add an extra layer of interest to any outfit. My personal favorite way of wearing turtlenecks is under my sweaters, but they can be worn under any t-shirt or long sleeve.
Billions of clothes are donated to Goodwill annually, and about 48% of this clothing is actually sold to consumers in the same year. These two statistics alone are enough to prove just how important it is that we shop second-hand, so why not start with shopping for winter gear at these thrift stores? Gently-used hats, scarves, and gloves are donated to thrift stores such as the Salvation Army in abundance, which means that going to these second-hand shops can ensure you get good quality winter items for less!
Once you’ve found the perfect winter items to keep you warm, it is time for you to style them! Scarves, hats and gloves can be worn with almost anything, so the best way to match them to your winter outfits is to color coordinate. For example, a brown scarf can be paired with a brown jacket, brown boots, and so on. When styling winter gear, it is important to keep in mind that they are accessories and can easily elevate an outfit.
As for footwear, the obvious choice for winter is the classic boot. Winning in terms of comfort and style, boots are versatile in length, meaning that a pair of knee-high ones can easily be paired with a dress or skirt to create interest–and warmth–in any outfit. In addition to boots, layering a dress or skirt over a pair of flared jeans or leggings is also a great way to use your summer pieces in cold weather.
Successfully creating a winter wardrobe does not have to encompass buying brand-new clothes, as many articles of clothing can be bought second-hand or layered to suit the changing seasons. There is no need to sacrifice style for warmth. Through the power of layering and styling winter gear, you can stay both fashionable and warm in the upcoming winter months!
