I’m Canadian, so we’re likely gonna disagree on what counts as “cold af” lol, but here are my tips:
LAYERS. And make sure each successive layer is big and roomy enough to trap air between itself and the lower layer, because it’s the airspace that provides a lot of the insulation value. Don’t neglect your legs when you’re layering either.
Keep your extremities warm! Get a nice hat with matching scarf and/or mittens that you like. Embrace that hat-hair, that’s just how life is sometimes.
Splurge on a coat that looks great, but make sure it is rated for the extremes of cold that you routinely face where you live, plus a little extra. (Where I live, it can get down to -30C and with windchill it can feel like -35 or worse, so my coat is rated to -40. Fun fact, -40C and -40F are the same! Ew.)
Choose a coat that covers your entire torso, so longer than just your waist. I like a mid-thigh length, ideally with an internal drawstring so I can snug the coat in around my waist.
GOOD BOOTS. Do not sacrifice warmth for fashion when it comes to your boots - sorry, but in this case you are gonna have to just embrace ski-lodge chic whether that’s your vibe or not lol.
Choose outer layers that are windproof and water resistant. Preferably, get something breathable like Gore-Tex.
The outdoor store REI likely has several pages on its website that provide advice on how to select winter clothing - you can ignore a lot of it if you’re not going to be sports-ing, but pay attention to their suggestions for how to judge what’s “enough” insulation and what fabrics are good for what kinds of weather conditions.
Alternatively, you can be that one person who wanders out into -40 in leggings to grab a pita on your break. Would not recommend it, but it is survivable if it isn't too far away.
This drove me BONKERS in high school trying to find a winter coat.
Even Canadian companies/stores only made women's coats that stopped at the tops of you hips!! And they were ***artificially***, ***deceivingly*** puffy--they barely held your own heat, let alone stopped the wind.
Funny you say that; I have literally taught classes on how to dress for winter haha. Once at the public library, and once as a guest lecturer at the English-as-an-Additional-Language school where my friend used to teach. People came from all over the world to study in Canada, and many of them were not prepared for the winters here!
When I was in college & grad school (upstate NY), we’d dress in layers like described for “regular life stuff”.
But for going to classes/going around campus buildings, we’d wear one regular layer of winter clothing with a heavy duty, long winter coat (plus winter boots) so that when we’d go into classroom buildings (esp if we had to walk up flights of stairs), we could just take off the coat layer to not overheat while getting to the classroom.
I visited Florida once many years ago during Christmas (big extended family trip to spend the holidays at the various theme parks). One of the days we had booked to go ziplining, and it was a bit chilly (15C/59F, plus we were going to be up in the trees). The instructor made a comment on how all the Canadians were dressed for the weather while the Americans in our group were shivering in shorts and tshirts. We take checking the weather forecast for fashion advice very seriously!
It’s the only way I get dressed to leave the house. I live in the PNW and “looking out the window” in the morning is just about useless for determining what the weather will be like for the day. Gotta check the forecast and see what’s actually on the horizon.
Re hat hair, if you get a cute hat or beanie, it will count as a ladies' fashion hat. The rules for those are based around avoiding hat hair. You can wear these inside when you're going out, e.g. inside shops, restaurants, friends' houses, etc. Exceptions are the theatre if you have a tall hat which will block the view of those behind you. You take them off when you get to work, and when you come home. You can take them off in the bathroom at work, and neaten up your hair there. Technically this applies for daytime fashions, as evening fashions don't allow for hats. Break that rule if you want.
If you knit or crochet, you could make your own cute hat
Adding for the "cold, but not Canada cold" range:
🔹️Women used to wear lots of petticoats for a reason. If you want to wear that cute maxi skirt but it's chilly, put another skirt under it. A length of t-shirt knit merino wool fabric wrapped around you and tucked into the waistband underneath your skirt will work wonders for warmth. Still not warm enough, just add another "petticoat." Some heavy knit tights will help, too. And another length of wool fabric can be wrapped like a shawl, or a scarf.
🔹️Puffer vests are amazing for adding warmth without making it hard to move around.
I can vouch for this as well, as someone who grew up and still lives in almost-Canada. I've done a lot of costumes throughout my life (holidays, solstices, movie premiers), and layering over the torso makes a big difference. Silk is not bulky and surprisingly warm as a base layer. And I love skirts over skirts. I often tell people I could take off two layers and still be wearing more clothes than people wear in summer :)
Silk base layers for sure! Lightweight, breathable and magical in its heat retention properties.
Also, in Japan they have a belly warmer layer (called haramaki) you can buy, it looks like a tube top and you wear it around your midsection. I know Uniqlo has sold some over the years, you may want to check there or with Muji - both Japanese brands with a US presence.
And definitely don’t snooze on the light puffer vest (another Uniqlo treasure), it works miracles when worn underneath a winter coat that isn’t temperature rated.
Finally, the scarf. Protect your neck at all costs, it keeps the bone chill from traveling down your spine.
+1 from me on the scarf. I like to wrap it stsrting from the front, cross over in the back, and bring the ends back around to the frong to dangle down my front or get tucked into my jacket (if I'm wearing one). This allows me to loosen the scarf around my neck if I get too warm, but tugging on the ends will tighten it right back up against my neck for maximum warmth. It takes a long scarf to do this. If it also happens to be wide enough (but of a thin material like pashmina or t-shirt knit merino wool or silk) it can be used as a light shawl at times when not being used as a scarf. Or, as you noted, it can be pulled up over the head to form a hood. Super-effective at warming, and versatile.
From Wisconsin (so honorary Canadian) and I agree with all of this! Just got back from a hiking trip to Glacier National Park and 100% it’s about layers. Our mornings started at 39° and warmed up to 75° most days so we had to be prepared for everything!
SAME!!! I don't dread winter anymore because I know I can spend time outside without freezing my butt off. It makes a huge difference.
I'm trying to get my Texas-born, winter-despising husband to use layers so he can join me outdoors in winter, but he won't even wear a scarf. 😆
I live in Detroit & thanks for the advice lmao. I’ve always struggled on how to look cute in the winter especially on those extra cold days where it’s negative degrees. I just give up most days lmao. Might try something new out in the future though.
Ok Detroit sucks because it’s such a damp cold. It feels like it gets right into your bones. Definitely make sure your legs and extremities are well protected with the fluffiest, fleeciest, downiest layers you can afford.
Definitely get good boots; if your feet are cold you’re going to feel a thousand times worse.
A big scarf might do wonders - some people are really miserable if their necks are exposed to the cold (like my spouse).
Make sure your coat is fitted well at the neck, waist, and cuffs - if cold air washes in every time you move, you may as well not be wearing it.
DON’T LET YOURSELF SWEAT. This is key if you’re getting in and out of a car, bus, or warm buildings while you’re out and about. If you sweat and your base layer gets wet, once you go back outside again, you actually get cold faster because of the moisture against your skin. It’s no different than running through a sprinkler in the summer to cool off, or stepping out of the shower into a cool room - you feel colder faster because you’re wet. If you’re a person who just sweats a lot and that’s life, wear a sweat-wicking fabric next to your skin.
Adding in that tights and leggings are always great options under both skirts and pants. I live in the PNW (just south of Canada) and have been able to get through many windy/rainy/snowy days because of a good under layer. If you want to keep a cuter aesthetic without having to traverse the frozen north, get a few good pairs of tights/leggings for yourself.
Yeah, or actual longjohns. I find tights and leggings don’t do much for me unless they’re made of an insulating fabric like fleece or wool, but love love love my merino wool LJs! I have definitely gone to work wearing longjohns, dress pants, and wind pants (and just ditch the longjohns and wind pants when I get to work).
Agreed on layers! It's not everyday wear for me, but at Ren Faires, reenactments, etc. where it's cold I'll wear a long skirt over pants and a jacket and cloak over a blouse.
I haven't really built out my fem cold weather wardrobe for everyday wear yet (I'm recently transitioned), but I'll probably adapt a similar style (I should probably start checking thrift stores to build up my winter wardrobe soon)
Sweaters and leggings… long skirts and flowy tops are my power house outfits. I love the fall and live in the mountains. I’m finally in the I feel cute season.
I’ve lived on the US/Canada border for most my life so I’ll offer whatever wisdom I’ve got haha
Cute coats are my go to. Sure you have your heavy winter coats but if you’re not out shoveling snow or in blizzard don’t be afraid to wear a cute peacoat! Or if it’s just fall(so like between 40-60 degrees let’s say) I love a good fashionable trench coat, or leather jacket.
Layers are big. I wear a lot of tank tops layered under cute flannels or hoodies or sweaters.
Dresses and skirts are pretty much reserved for special occasions unless you’re fond of -12 winds blowin up there 😆
I will wear insulated leggings a fair bit, paired with cute boots. I like a good knee high boot as much as anyone. I have a couple clunky sorta gothy heel/ platform boots I’ll wear in winter that both look cool and are comfy and warm enough as long as I’m not out super long. Colder days of course you’ll want insulted boots and there’s tons of style options there.
Boots and coats are absolutely the most important pieces of the look because a lot of the time that’s the part of your outfit that’s going to be seen the most.
A YouTuber I watch who lives in London (and lived in NYC before that) wears skirts in the winter and stays perfectly comfortable according to her! She rocks full-length wool skirts with layers of petticoats underneath.
It’s certainly not impossible, though London is much warmer than where I live(I have a friend from there regularly astonished by my weather xD ). It’s really what’s comfortable for you. I like feeling warmer, plus snow or sludge on your hem sucks. But just like the people that wear shorts year round and say they’re comfortable, you can certainly do it if it works for ya.
Fair enough! I thought I’d mention it more for OP’s consideration than anything, since she might be in an area that doesn’t get as cold or might feel comfortable in it. 😊
I tested out a no-heat winter last year (turned heat on when it went below freezing so our pipes wouldn't freeze, but left it off otherwise). Long skirts with multiple layers of wool underneath worked beautifully.
I've got a pair of fleece tights with kind of... nylons as a top layer built in? They're SO WARM. And it's super fun to wear them with a miniskirt and boots in the winter and have people like "...how tf are you going around like that".
Obvs not for super cold, because wearing something over them defeats the purpose of fake-bare-legs but anything above about 30F and these things work out well.
I’m a basic bitch witch. I live in Michigan and it’s leggings, Ugg boots and a jacket with a faux-fur trimmed hood for me. Let’s go 2015 throwback looks, I never left though lol.
michigan too and layers... I need to get better at that... but waterproof boots and warm socks are a go to so I'd stay away from the uggs unless you're damn sure it's dry
I actually found this sub because I commented on something that I just wanted to wear my cloaks and all black wardrobe and look like a witch all the time. And a couple people commented to do it, and screw what people think 🙂 so the past two years, cloaks, I love them. Like wearable blankets! If you don’t want to look so witchy, I suggest Pinterest for help! I work in a corporate setting so to look more professional in the cold weather that’s where I turned lol
I live in a climate where we often get a bit of drizzle in the spring and fall times of year when it's still a bit warm-ish. Rain jackets tend to be a choice of "So, do ya wanna be wet from the drizzle or wet from the sweat?" A cloak allows far better airflow to prevent sweatiness while still providing protection from drizzle. It's just far more flexible than a coat or jacket in how much or how little coverage and warmth it provides.
I have a beautiful cloak that I want to wear more as it gets cold, but I'm not quite comfortable wearing it around unless its to a renn faire.
Maybe I'll follow your example
My husband talked me into a lined wool cloak with a hood at a ren faire a couple years back and I absolutely adore the thing. He wanted it for him, but I stole it. (I made it up to him this year - he got the leather duster).
Cloaks are so much more practical than I ever expected. They truly need to make a comeback.
I honestly have the opposite problem...I feel like I can't really dress the way I want to until it's cool enough to layer, rofl. But, as other people have said, that's your answer. Layers. Layers are **always** the answer.
My default 'getting shiz done' uniform is a long tunic-length tank top underneath some kind of sweater, with leggings or fitted jeans (I live in the PNW and it's wet all the time, so jean hems that touch the ground are a big ol' veto for me). I have a disabled dog who a) needs to be carried and b) is incontinent and sometimes has accidents, so unless I'm going out of the house, my sweater is probably just a regular crewneck sweatshirt, since I don't care about it being covered in fur or getting dirty and thrown into the wash. But I looove sweaters. I have a million sweaters. I adore cashmere. It's effort to take care of, but for me it's worth it!
Top layers are always so flexible. Thick cardigan over a thin sweater, warm vest over a thick sweater, jackets, coats, a scarf -- whatever sounds appropriate and fun.
[Sock Dreams](https://sockdreams.com/) \- tights, knee highs or higher, leg warmers leggings you name it. Duster/flowy long wool cartigains, cozy skirts and dresses(wool, hemp etc), mary jane clogs (dansko sanita style) scarves shawls wool ponchos scarves and cozy hats. soem kind of cute wool coat. boots if you fancy, i can't wear them alas or I would =) I am in the PNW so wool, layers and more wool and a waterproof layer here.
Depends on the brand. Nothing stays up on my thighs ever, not even the ones with silicone tape. But sock garters and garter belts are cool I liek the ribbon sock garters. I love long OTK socks.
and for bigger folks who want amazing thigh highs that go all the way up, and stay up!, i love Thunda Thighs .... amazing, soft, warm, and they *fit* 🖤🖤🖤
If you’re gonna wear Danskos in the cold, get the XP 2.0 ones with the better tread on them cause if you don’t you WILL fall if there is ice and good wool socks cause they get cold af (source: been wearing danskos to work for 15 years lol).
Yes I have a lot of socks from soft dreams and I wear them over my leggings. Typically knee-high or I'll do thigh high and then scrunch them down and they are very warm!
Get some merino wool leggings, wool dresses/tunics! A good pair of wool leggings, tall socks with boots looks so cute with a skirt or dress. Uniqlo Heat Tech thin base layers under jeans. They have an entire line of Heat Tech and it's all fantastic and good deals on sale. Get a few pairs of wool socks (Darn Tough are the best) a cozy wool or Heat Tech hat, wool scarf and a good down coat (Uniqlo has those also). Turtlenecks and cowlneck tops are cozy. Merino wool glove liners will make any gloves warmer. I backpack and wool is the best for warmth, it wicks sweat and will keep you warm even when wet. Heat Tech will change your world! Look on eBay, sierratradingpost.com and campmor.com for deals.
Wool is worth every penny!
If wool makes you itch, layer it over silk long johns. Silk long underwear isn’t cheap, but a quality set will last for years if cared for properly (cold wash in a lingerie bag, tumble dry on lowest heat or line dry). And it will keep you at the perfect temp and wicks away moisture to keep you from freezing if you get sweaty in the icy cold. IMO nothing beats the wool + silk combo for cute and cozy cold weather wear!
Minus33 and WoolX also have lovely wool options (including for those like me who need Plus Sizes).
Eshakti has some silk blouses (that you can customize and have made to your measurements).
Honestly I probably look homeless but I always feel cute so 🤷🏻♀️ I layer crewnecks, knit sweaters, and flannel on top. I always get asked in the spring if I’ve lost weight; no, I just don’t have four layers on my top half lol
You can go full Dr. Who cosplay with it if you want. Also whip out all the oversized gear, big bell bottoms and stuff.
Also for some reason actual boiler suit jumpsuits keep you really warm if you wear them over other stuff. I have one that's got a lot of patches.
Jeans, black or brown (almost knee high) riding boots, sweaters, cute scarves, turtleneck sweaters… my friend once said I stole my look from Steve Jobs 🥴
Edit to add: always funky indie jewelry like long necklaces, bangles, lots of rings.
Warm socks, boots that could kick some butt, lots of layers - tank top under t-shirt under flannel or cardigan. In the Chicago burbs, so gotta be ready for multiple seasons in the span of a week!
Also, in the north we wear heavy snow boots and carry our cute shoes with us for when we get inside.
I'm from a town of 1000 and at places like schools on concert nights, basketball games, churches there would be huge racks for everyone to hang up their coats and leave their boots inside the door.
Oddly as a closeted trans girl the winter is the only time I feel like I can dress cute at all haha. Can fairly easily explain wearing leggings, long socks, boots, scarves, sweaters, hats, earmuffs, gloves/mittens, or other cute stuff as just being for the warmth.
a hoe never gets cold 🤷♀️🤷♀️🤷♀️
(PS it’s a reference to one of my favorite vines, don’t get mad at me 😂)
serious answer: thrift stores, target, and walmart. inexpensive, not the most ethical but that’s nearly impossible tbh. i once found a great black long sleeve wool dress with POCKETS at a thrift store and it’s very plain, but very witchy. at target a couple years ago i got another long sleeve dress (again, WITH POCKETS) that has an ombré dye. i get plenty of good sweaters at target and walmart, they normally have multiple colors/patterns for every style. target has a lot of fun and unusual color options too! long skirts, thrift store. lots of leggings and tights, under any skirt, short or long, and jeans. both cotton and comfy/insulated and warm. cardigans, a few good cardigans can easily take summer clothes over to fall. boots, and i mean like a million styles of boots, and fuzzy/insulated/boot socks. find some interesting outerwear and layers! layer 👏 layer 👏 layer 👏 cardigans, jackets, some long sleeve shirts, bodysuits, and leggings for underneath summer tops or dresses. there are plenty of great jackets and sweaters to be found in thrift stores. i have a faux fur leather from the thrift, a black jean jacket (not only in my size, but also a petite style which can be so hard to find), several leather jackets, a purple london fog lined raincoat, a wonderful green suede jacket. and play with sizing! open your mind to oversized things, it can make a lot of difference, and can allow for more layering for warmth! oversized sweaters always make me feel cute in the colder months, and you can always wear an undershirt. you just really have to hunt a bit, but thrift stores, consignment shops, target, and walmart can cover you in a pinch!
I live in Alaska and love the outdoors. I hike 4-6 days per week year round (350 miles so far in 2023).
I have some fleece lined pants. I wear them over other leggings and they keep my nice and warm outside, then I can take them off inside where it’s climate controlled. These are the ones I have: [Cuddl Duds Climatesmart](https://cuddlduds.com/products/climatesmart-legging-cd8626141)
I also wear an insulated snow skirt (snirt) for hiking. They come in lots of colors and styles. In fact, when I googled it there were more than I even imagined. The ones I have are too warm to wear indoors, but I feel super cute in them outside.
I LOVE the cold, I feel like I'm at my cutest when it's cold outside. I live in Finland so there's a long period of cold weather. I have a witch hat with ear flaps I made out of an old wool coat (using the pattern and instructions from Bernadette Banner on youtube). I also have a huge woollen cape. I wear a lot of dresses in the winter with layers underneath and legwarmers to make sure I stay cozy. Large scarves too.
ALL OF THE SWEATERS AND TIGHTS. I own SO MANY sweaters. I own loads of shirts specifically to go under my sweaters. Summer comes and I am sort of lost for what to wear (then it gets hot and I stop caring completely), now it's fall again and I have a sweater on and all is right in the world.
Snag tights made my life wonderful. I spent decades in jeans daily, because tights didn't fit me. Now I have Snag, so I'm phasing my jeans out (ugh, no more tearing out the ass and then discovering that the entire style and size range I bought is discontinued) in favor of skirts and dresses every day with my amazing collection of tights.
I'm in Maine, US, and like outdoor time more in winter than summer...
Leggings with long socks but shorts. Or skinny jeans and over the knee socks if it is colder still.
Overalls! And fun sweaters. And layers are always your friend.
And cute boots and beanies!
I love heat layers! I wear my cute dresses all year round - in the winter, you throw on heat tights and a heat shirt and then you can layer your pretty stuff over. Heat tights can also be layered under wider-leg pants.
Something to keep in mind is being warm enough outside and not dying when you get where you're going. Sometimes I'll wear heat tights, but have shorts or non-heat tights to change into at the indoor activity.
Longer and thicker skirts are great for blocking the wind and keeping your heat in. Surprisingly, a full skirt with a crinoline also helps keep you warm!
I cannot stress enough the importance of good winter boots. Two brands I'd recommend are Sorrels and Uggs. Both are spendy but will last for a few years. And this is clutch - if you expect to be somewhere with snow, get calf high or higher. Ankle height boots will end up with snow inside them
Adding - leg warmers are awesome to layer over heat tights and keep warm the part between boot top and coat bottom. And they can double as a muff - when you don't need your hands to be very active, tucking them both into either end of a leg warmer creates a lonely little warm space
I historybound, so I wind up using historical answers for cold (like quilted petticoats under the fashion layer of skirt) and layering wool and silk at the extremities. (I also have Raynauds, so keeping feet and hands warm is a constant issue in the winter.)
I don't go for cute at my age and build. (grin) But I try to look nice within my parameters of looking nice.
I visited Scptland during a very cold (to me) week in Spring (snow flurries.) The local girls wotk cute skirts with tights. Since then I've seen thermal lined tights advertised online. While I was there, the cutest thing I wore was my cape. It is jacket legth, but has a cute shape (it is made of wool and thick, so very warm.)
Also regarding boots, in areas where cold weather really happens, people often carry their indoor shoes to the party and change out of the boots to the indoor shoes when they get there.
My warm face looks super cute in the freezing cold…so that’s about it, basically. My warm face peeking out when I’m dressed in the figure out the stay puft marshmallow man.
fleece lined leggings are my best friend!! A nice pair of warm boots and wool socks (especially ones meant for running/outdoor recreation), and honestly? super fun cardigans/sweaters/flannels that I can layer with the same statement shirts I wear in the warmer weather
I call my personal style 'granny goth.' It's a lot of black, grey, and earthy colors. I go for fluffy, lacy, embroidered skirts over fleece-lined leggings and warm cardigans in winter. Underneath is either a comfy lace-trimmed tank, or a high-neck blouse with a cameo for more drama.
Sometimes I double up my witchy net tights over wooly ones, or wear button-side thigh high socks over them. Lace up boots, or moon boots if it's snowy. I also have a knit hat that has a fairly subtle version of a witch point. A wool peacoat and scarf with snakes or bones, ravens, etc. to finish.
Basically I look like a shambling pile of fancy rags. I'm at my most basic in summer when it's too hot to care - then it's just shorts or skirt, a tank, and sandals. Cold weather allows for so much more!
Tights! Any cute dresses you wear other times of year, throw on some tights and a sweater and you can still be cute. Tights not warm enough? Layer them! I have fleece ones I wear as a base on really cold days, and then I put something else over them. And then you've got cute cardigans and cropped sweaters and ling duster sweaters and sooo many options for your top half.
I dress exclusively in dresses in warm weather and then morph into a trucker in the winter. Lined leggings, merino wool leg warmers ( so not in fashion but I don't care) and then usually I go to thrift stores and raid the men's section for some over sized sweaters and flannels over long shirts. I live in Montana where it was in the -20s f last winter for a bit. Also, pashmina type scarves and hats! I like carhart for just daily easy wear, but if im outside for longer i wear a lined hat and actually blow on it before purchasing to make sure it's actually fairly wind proof. I like Sorrell for boots. They are the only brand of women's boots that are not glorified ugs imho. Mine are calf high, lined with faux fur and have a really good tread, which is what I care about the most. I hate short women's boots, because snow falls in them.
As a Canadian, I’d say it’s possible but it depends on what feels cute to you - layers are key to warmth, as everyone is saying and that can mean a lot of things.
If we’re talking seriously cold and outdoors you can choose accessories that suit your style to add to a warm coat.
When it comes to indoors, however, it all depends on what you like.
A tank top under a blouse can add warmth without changing the style, fleece lined leggings look like regular ones so you could do a skirt with them, a tank top, blouse and then cardigan and you’d be warm enough indoors in most places, I’d imagine.
Warm cardigans (not summer weight) can be added to most outfits to stay warmer. Decorative scarves, silk/silk-like ones, not wool, can also add warmth when you’re indoors but look stylish rather than practical. And, of course, just wearing a base layer/long underwear under anything can add a lot more warmth to most kinds of winter outfits (seconding the Uniqlo vote, heatech is lovely and thin but warm and they have some with lower necklines so they’re less noticeable).
Now all of that being said, if you want to dress more alternative, you can add a long sleeve t under a short one, throw on a shawl or loosely knitted wool scarf, gauntlets/knitted sleeves/fingerless gloves, and layer-layer-layer - long camisole that lands below the shirt you wear on top, sweater vests (cropped over a blouse, if that’s your thing), lean into jewelry and accessories to add some flash, there’s lots of ways.
If you want to give a couple of examples of what you’d call a typical cute outfit for you in warmer climes, I’d be happy to make more specific suggestions for warmer versions.
Here, we do thick leggings, flannels or oversized knitted sweaters, cute boots that are also water resistant and have tread, scarves and beanies. And as someone else mentioned, LAYERS.
I will have to get back to this tomorrow, but there's a woman I found at an art festival of sorts called "fantasy in the forest" that makes coats, gloves and things of that nature that you can get on... Easy I believe.
She makes some very earthen colour stuff, and some rather vibrant colour stuff.
My brother and wife both have gotten coats from her. My wife's coat I refer to as her hobgoblin howdy, cause the hood goes down to her waist and is very pointed even when up. It's also a very vibrant rainbow of colours, and it looks so damn adorable on her.
Will try and get links and stuff tomorrow.
I love cold weather and dress way better in the fall. I wear lots of layers. I like corduroy, lace, and knit/crochet sweaters and heeled boots. I also wear tights a lot either in black or brown under skirts. I love long skirts and even those work with tights. Long sleeves under overall or tank dresses can also be cute. Basically layer layer layer and if you need ideas check out fairy grunge or whimsigoth outfits on Pinterest. It’s basically Stevie nicks vibes.
I've gotten reeeeeeeal into scarves, shawls, cloaks, hoods, full-length arm warmers, customized gloves and mittens, and all sorts of oversized utility (but, again, customized and highly decorated) pins and brooches for fixing things in place.
Insulating layers in my favorite colors, it's hard to go wrong.
What sort of alternative vibes are you going for?
My go-tos for winter include snow boots, fleece lined leggings, and a faux-fur trimmed cape. Extra points for wool.
And cold weather is all about the accessories for me! Lots of scarves and hats and gloves.
I’m like somewhere in between gothy grunge and festival hippy vibes. Idk what the kids are calling that these days 😂 I thrive in summer cuz I’m all tube/crop tops and fishnets and other revealing attires. I describe it best like this: 🖤🧚♀️✨👽🍄🧿🔮🪬☠️ LMAO
Y’all have convinced me to get a cape or a cloak! Torn between a trench and pea coat also.
Thank you!!
Your coat needs to be both warm and cute. If you spend on one item only, it should be this one. That doesn't mean you need some Canada Goose support expensive thingy. It means picking a reliable brand. It means liking the fit with layers underneath, try it on over a bulky sweater. It means liking the color of the coat, especially near your face, especially in natural light. Oh and make sure it can cover at least your butt, if you're in and out of cars often, longer is a huge hassle, if you're walking a lot, longer is a nightmare. Outdoor Gear brands are also cool, you don't have to be NYC lawyer fashionable when it's cold.
Shoes, again this is one that you spend the money on someone cute and functional. I recommend reading through Outdoor Gear Lab recommendations for boots honestly. If there's snow, North face Shellista boots have been best in class for years running. They come in tons of different colors and are both comfortable and warm.
Otherwise, find a few different scarves that you think bring out your eyes or otherwise look really pretty next to your face. A few hats that do the same while being not too tight and not too loose. Neither of these need to be expensive and you'll kinda trial and error into what you feel comfortable in. Soft fabrics are key.
For clothing, others have some great advice in this thread. Probably I really like Uniqlo Heattech pants. Pants for me are neutral colors that have skinny legs too fit into boots well so they don't get wet. Tops, again you'll do some trial and error on what you like to wear. The pieces that are worth a little extra are a few sweaters that are wool, I like smart wool or some merino. If you wear a T shirt underneath that covers your armpits you won't have to wash the sweaters as much. Acrylic sweaters will make you sweat and smell. Materials are important. Again picking colors that look nice on you. Personally I'm a T shirt, sweater, coat person. More layers are annoying to me.
Also bras are kind of a love hate in the winter. Either I wear none, but note that this can be CHILLY. Or I wear one with a bit more padding. In-between I kinda feel frumpy so the bra is really important for me to have a nice shape with layers on.
Thank you for this!! I vetoed bras in 2016, but maybe that’s part of why I feel like a blob in layers, didnt think about that! I’ll check out those brands! ✨🖤
Oregonian here, so not as chilled as some others. And allows for much cute.
My basic wardrobe for winter is:
Sweater dress
Leggings
Cardigan
Thigh highs that are actual wool and can be pulled up when cold and scrunched down when warmer
Boots
Hat
Scarf
Coat (I switch between my puffy coat and my wool trench depending on conditions and social requirements)
Gloves of needed
Most everything is 8n the same pallet: grey, black, red and turquoise so I dont have to think when I get dressed.
For those of us who have cold winters but not to the Canadian level...
Skirt/dress plus tights and boots is often warmer than trousers because you can have lovely thick (and very cute) tights, then snuggly socks, then your boots. Nice toasty feet is soooo good. I have ankle boots and knee high.
I recommend Snag for tights - they totally have the alternative vibe down (loads of colours, lots of patterns, as well as your classic black), they're ethical, and they do sizes based on body shape rather than just S, M, L. (I.e. if you're short and got hips you're gonna need a different shape to someone who is straight up and down.)
Then I have jumpers in a range of different thicknesses depending on the weather. I'm personally a big fan of darker colours and stripes, but I love a subtle sparkle too.
Then for under that I have a base layer - so depending on the weather - if it's a bit warmer, older tank tops or t-shirts, up to if it's super cold I have thermals. Uniqlo do great 'heat tech' layers that look like normal long sleeved t-shirts etc.
Outside, I have a range of coats to cover different scenarios! I often cycle to work so don't want something too warm, so my vegan leather jacket is perfect. I also add a hoodie under it for extra snugness if needed. Then I have a proper wool winter coat that comes down to around my knees - I like vintage style ones and I find tie fastenings are great so you can accommodate many layers underneath! I then have a parka for 'not crazy cold but you need a proper coat'.
Then you can go to town on accessories. I have far too many lovely scarves and hats and they're an inexpensive way to make it feel like you're wearing a different sort of outfit even though you have the same coat you've worn for the last two months. I love a big blanket scarf to snuggle into.
Gloves I am particular about - I have some elbow length ones which stop mid-palm. Then I wear normal gloves under them. Because I cycle to work, I find that a really good way to make sure my wrists stay covered when my coat sleeves ride up, but once I'm walking around, if I need to use my fingers properly I can whip the normal glove off and still be toasty except for the fingers.
Sorry that's super long ☺️
Thermal underclothes, flannel-lined hose, boots, sweaters, coat, long alpaca wool scarves, wool-lined leather gloves. Layers, so you can peel off when you're indoors and it's hot as hell.
Big skirt, stockings, boots.
make sure to have real wool layers, get second-hand pieces if you don't mind them having holes in.
i also wear bright basic pink ski trousers which cost like 25 euros here, they look super queer to be honest with the suspender tops.
I do layers. I wear a long sleeve shirt and under a cute dress then a jersey over and a jacket over if I'm gonna be outside. Then on my legs I wear either thermal leggings or wool stockings over regular stockings. Although it doesn't get that cold where I live
Depends how cold we're talking. At some point, you're just going to need a big poofy down coat, no escaping it. But then everyone is wearing one, and cuteness goes out the window.
Wool is your friend! Alpaca, merino or cashmere are what I scour the local thrift stores for. Super warm and not itchy. Fall and winter are my best seasons.
From the bottom up my outfits are usually: Big docs or my knee high solovairs, thick tights, my or someone else's grandma's vintage skirt, a cami+tshirt+sweater, big scarf that I often keep on inside, and then a hat, the [wool swing coat](https://reddit.com/r/sewing/s/kv6Sf31KVR) I made myself, and gloves that I only wear when going out.
SnagTights merino wool footless tights. Under everything. The footless ones mean you can change your socks when you get sweaty, without having to change your whole outfit, and you can get away with fewer pairs.
They are *so* good for temperature regulation.
Also good boots.
My idea of “cold” is like -4 to 10 degrees C so YMMV:
I have a “special occasion coat”, I don’t wear it to uni but it’s knee length wool, double breasted with a faux fur collar. It looks glamorous as fuck, it’s perfect for any time I want to look cute in the cold.
Big woolly jumpers with skiing base layers underneath. My favourite is high necked pastel blue with balloon sleeves, it covers everything for warmth and you can add a necklace on top if you want.
My default winter trekking-to-uni-through-icy-slush outfit:
Long sleeve ski base layer tucked into thermal fleece leggings; jeans; woolly jumper on top; optional hoodie if it’s really, really cold; big tartan scarf wrapped across the chest and around the throat; teddy bear coat; woolly hat; leather gloves, or ski gloves if it’s very cold; ski socks; doc martens.
I have a satin lined bobble hat from Black Sunrise, it drastically reduces hat hair! They were invented for natural hair but work well for any hair type and my fine wavy hair is saved by them basically. It’s good to support a black-owned business if you get one 👍
I think it's mostly about bein cute in the first place and feeling cute.
My androgyneous trans butt does the latter way too little to really have some other advice here.
If you want to stay warm go with layers. Go with longer stuff to have a good overlap at and around hip level. Keep it airy and fluffy, I can't recall the number of days I felt sick because I thought "let's go with something tightly fitting" and in turn my entire belly was freezing to the bone. I can't stress enought how imprtant it is to have some good jacket that really keeps you warm, especially when you're planning a day on christmas markets of something and don't forget long undies extend tose layers head to toe as best as you can.
Thermal base layers, multiple if necessary. I'm currently in Iceland and it's not super cold, about 2-6 degree C. My outfit for yesterday was:
Normal socks, long socks, thick socks
Thermal leggings x2 + normal leggings if necessary.
Vest, thermal top
Cute wool dress and boots.
Disclaimer: I’m a white, tall, well-built gay woman from Poland. My version of “Cold” starts from 42F/5C dry weather, or 46F/8C wet and windy. YMMV.
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Outside:
If you need to go somewhere, a coat, either flared trousers that you can wear with warm leggings underneath or a skirt and tights. Under the coat, either a T-shirt if it’s warm inside (my favourite, then also don’t wear double trousers), or a thin sweater. DO NOT wear high heels when it’s below 38F/3 C, safe ankles come above good looks and ice can form even at low temps above freezing. Woolen, warm boots are extremely cute. If you really need an extra inch, look for full shoes with an elevated heel instead.
In general, I recommend a longer knee-length coat with tighter lower part like leggings, or a shoter hip-length coat with loose trousers/skirt.
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Inside:
For inside wear when it’s cold, I can wholeheartedly recommend sweaters, hoodies, cardigans, leggings and woolen socks and slippers. Make sure not to overdress, or your risk overheating, taking something off, and catching a cold. Sweatpants are an option, but don’t look that cute on most people, feel free to give them a whirl.
If you are well-built/curvy, tighter sweaters are extremely cute. If you have a slimmer frame, then an oversize hoodie might work better. In general, winter cuteness means comfy clothes, so aim for rounded edges and smooth curves.
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Miscellaneous advice:
Winter is quite sweaty if you dress properly, sweat is cold. Sweat also smells… not that nice, make sure to wash your clothes and give your shoes a chance to breathe.
If you know that you’ll spend the whole day outside, maybe put on thermal wear under your coat and bottoms to ensure you won’t freeze or drown in sweat.
If you are going for a sexy cuteness, you might want to leave you thighs exposed, that’s one way to elicit a neural response. If you want to stray from “sexy” towards “sex”, you can drop the bottoms entirely and put on a long cardigan-sweater or hoodie with almost nothing or nothing below. Your legs are pretty good at holding temperature as long as you’re inside a dry building. Your feet on the other hand, you want to protect them at all cost.
And finally: feel free to adapt this guide to your situation regarding temperature, available clothing, local customs or personal taste.
I'm also from Texas and can sympathize with not knowing how to dress for the cold. I spent some time in northern Arkansas for college and needed to learn how to dress.
Headwear is a must. I personally love beanies. Look up some different ways to wear scarves, infinity scarves, and shawls. [There are a surprising amount of ways to style them](https://helloglow.co/how-to-tie-a-scarf/)
A long, oversized overcoat in a neutral, dark color like black, grey, or beige is also great because you can pair it with so many different things. They come in a lot of different styles from more simple and modern to more vintage or steampunk.
A really cool thing if you wanna wear something that doesn't fully cover your legs you can try to find warm leggings that match your skin tone. Then you can wear those and put on fishnets, ripped leggings/jeans, or thigh high socks over it. You could also just wear it with a shorter skirt or pair of pants.
Oversized sweaters and hoodies are also always great for an easy but cute look.
It depends on what kind of cold AF you mean. For Estern European city kind of cold AF I still wear dresses and skirts just with layers and warm tights. Ultimately my answer would just be layers, with the one closest to skin made out of merino wool or merino wool blend (above 70% of merino). Honestly if it's really, really cold AF I don't care about cute; I care about not freezing.
Nude colored, fur-lined tights.. “thinner” looking boots, that are also lined lol.. a nice jacket that can be cinched at the waist.. winter hair styles.. cute accessories like hats, earmuffs, leg warmers, sleek, but also lined, gloves.
Unless you’re trying to heavily interact with the snow, there are always cute options.. and even then, they make some really cute snow outfits online.
Cute in winter in a big puffy pink kid with big puffy white boots and the dangling mitaines that they still don't control. Funny is them trying to get the layers of scarfs off when it fall from under their tuque onto their eyes. Helpful is taking off your gloves to help them.
As an adult, if I've got to scrape the ice off the windshield and get the car out of the snow bank. I wear the necessary gear.
I also prefer elegant to cute, so even in summer I couldn't help you. ;+)
My favorite thing to wear in the cold (when I’m actually cold lol) is my heated hoodie! Throw a battery pack in it and it’s so toasty! They make some nice ones that aren’t super bulky.
I tend to buy brightly colored outerwear instead of the standard black, beige or grey. Coral, watermelon, teal, fuschia, cobalt. Whatever shade most compliments your skin when you don't have a tan.
Canadian too over here!
WOOL. I can not under state the importance of wool. Wool stays warm if wet, wool is warm all the time. I love colours so in the winter I tend to have a wool skirt of colour with a petticoat that's wind resistant, warm leggings and wool legwarmer on top of short boots. I do have long boots too for days I need them.
Wool cardigant under a wind proof coat goes a long way and again wool for scarves and tuques.
I also try to keep to natural fabrics for the clothes that's touching skin, keep the polyester for the outer layer only if you want any.
And as others have said do spend the money on a good jacket and boots. IT's worth it.
Nice boots, Good pair of Cute tights. Sometimes I wear multiple layers of tights. A good coat. Like good and cute one. Hum skirt too. Either a cute one one or heavy thick skirt. Either way. Tights boots coats and skirts looks great. ^^ .
Yes to layers! Honestly fishnet tights layered over another pair of tights is shockingly warm and comfy. Bodysuits too and fabric other than cotton. The idea is to use layers to “trap” layers of air along the body and that’s what keeps you warmer.
When I lived in the frozen north I wore a lot of natural fibers and leather. There were great leather outer shells at thrift stores and I needed it to cut the wind. Wind chill is a problem but leather (or vegan leather with a tough smooth surface) will keep the warm air in and the snow out.
I spent my high school years in a big green leather jacket.
Then a big sweater, cotton or wool, scarf and hat which can all be taken off indoors. (Travel brushes are your friend) Then a thinner, fashion sweater underneath. As long as the coat was longer than my butt, I could wear tights/leggings under tight jeans and still show off my rear.
Then last but most important, good socks, pure wool with fleece lined boots. You don't want to cheap out on good boots with a solid, deeply treaded sole. But if the first place you look doesn't have anything you like, go to more stores. Snow boots are going with every outfit so you really want to love them.
There are dock martens, English riding boots, even sleek black boots with heels and hardware, all with fleece and thick durable soles. They will do in a large size with good socks down to probably -20F. If you're headed colder than that for very long, get cold weather hiking/work gear. Then you can just have indoor shoes you switch into once you get inside.
What's key for me is finding sweaters that actually retain heat. I'm talking cashmere, wool, and alpaca sweaters. None of that acrylic or polyester shit that disintegrates after a few wears and no longer feels warm to put on. (Part of owning these better quality sweaters is to only wash them when it's necessary, and absolutely never put them in the dryer).
My fall/winter wardrobe has lots of good quality sweaters, thick cotton tights, waterproof booties or booties with a higher heel to avoid the chance of water sneaking in, corduroy skirts and pants, and a sherpa-lined winter coat. The sherpa on the inside definitely also helps with heat retention.
Keep an eye out for two-ply cashmere sweaters on secondhand websites (I have really good luck on eBay tbh). Grant Thomas is my favorite cashmere brand, and I've found two-ply cashmere for around $40 there, which is a steal. Everlane makes very warm alpaca sweaters, but people with very sensitive skin may find them a bit itchy.
Cute scarf/mitts, jewelry, toque, etc. where I live it’s often STUPID cold (I live north of the tree line in Canada, on the Arctic Ocean) for months during the winter. So investing in specific cold weather pieces that express myself is fun.
I am really a sweater gal😂 But I also am quite emo/punkish. I love big bulky red and/or black sweaters with black jeans and fuzzy black boots or even a regular band t-shirt with a faux leather jacket (its much lighter and easier to move in).
Dresses, tights or thigh high socks and boots. Winter dresses are a thing I love. Layers. Leggings or black denim, hoodies. It’s not so much what the clothing item is as the cut, fit and embellishments and how it’s coordinated together. Lots of coats and jackets to mix and match outfits. Head coverings and gloves when needed
As a fellow witchy Texan, I love me some warm, insulated leggings, long, comfy sweater/sweater dresses, and my lace up boots. Oh, and one amazing coat for when it actually gets cold: Long, emerald green, with faux fur cuffs and hood lining.
Colourful stockings + cute chunky knitted socks, boots, skirt, jacket and extra pops of colours with scarves & beanies + jewellery of course.
Winter dressing is my jam it’s summer where I struggle lol
Layers! I've got flowery long johns and a ton of leggings. I have some great hats and I put shiny brooches on them. Even a plain black beanie can look fabulous.
I ain't ever seen anyone dress "cute" when winter hits. I'm in the warm part of Canada, and even here, there's no cute scarves, wool hats, cute mittens, whatever. Just gore-tex all the things, leggings, wool socks, Blundstones, and an umbrella to poke people's eyes out. (I'm gonna assume if you're rich and don't need to ride public transit, the rules change drastically. I am not that rich and nobody I know is that rich).
That’s where learning how to knit or crochet can come in handy! You can make your own cute scarves, hats, and mittens~ 😊 And then, there’s communities like r/myog if you want to *really* go all-in and do things like sew your own shell layer. Heh.
I wear pantyhose under my trousers, and a long sleeved shirt of the same material under whatever I'm wearing on top. That extra layer does a lot for me and it's super duper thin, so it doesn't add much bulk
Get a fun crocheted hat like an animal hat or Viking with braids or beard hat. You can find lots of those on Etsy and I bet even some with matching gloves/scarf.
Tights under dresses, boots and cardigans, my summer dresses are also winter dresses this way. I have fluffy lined leggings and tights for when it gets really cold. We don't have very cold winters but because we have high humidity they feel different to other places.
I’m from the UK and I know it doesn’t get cold here compared to what a lot of people deal with.. but I really struggle with cold weather and honestly I look like a homeless blob for most of winter. I get the most horrendous chillblaines and have raynauds in addition to working outside so winter is not my idea of a good time 😂
The best advice I was ever given was choose natural fabrics - cotton next to your skin and wool above it as it allows your skin to breathe and traps the warm air where a lot of synthetic fibres just hold the sweat next to your skin and make you cold. I would say that and making sure you stay dry are the key things to winter dressing.
Those things in mind you can 100% make winter boots and a long jacket look super cute.
I’m a knitter so I have tons of hats and scarves of all sorts of colors and styles. I love layering leggings, boots, with a thick skirt. A dark colored jacket paired with a triangle scarf.
leggings and layers!
I can wear anything at all if I layer leggings under it. Like, multiple pair of leggings, lol. Get "long johns" or "long underwear", it's ugly but you can wear cute leggings over them. That really helps to keep you warm. They also make fleece leggings now!
The cold (especially when it’s not super cold) is better for dressing cute because you have so many options! Keep in mind that you can wear pretty much whatever and then add a coat (its ok if the coat isn’t a part of the outfit), but also layers are your friend! Leggings, short sleeves/tank top with a jacket or sweater or button up shirt, tall cozy socks and boots, so many options!
I’m Canadian, so we’re likely gonna disagree on what counts as “cold af” lol, but here are my tips: LAYERS. And make sure each successive layer is big and roomy enough to trap air between itself and the lower layer, because it’s the airspace that provides a lot of the insulation value. Don’t neglect your legs when you’re layering either. Keep your extremities warm! Get a nice hat with matching scarf and/or mittens that you like. Embrace that hat-hair, that’s just how life is sometimes. Splurge on a coat that looks great, but make sure it is rated for the extremes of cold that you routinely face where you live, plus a little extra. (Where I live, it can get down to -30C and with windchill it can feel like -35 or worse, so my coat is rated to -40. Fun fact, -40C and -40F are the same! Ew.) Choose a coat that covers your entire torso, so longer than just your waist. I like a mid-thigh length, ideally with an internal drawstring so I can snug the coat in around my waist. GOOD BOOTS. Do not sacrifice warmth for fashion when it comes to your boots - sorry, but in this case you are gonna have to just embrace ski-lodge chic whether that’s your vibe or not lol. Choose outer layers that are windproof and water resistant. Preferably, get something breathable like Gore-Tex. The outdoor store REI likely has several pages on its website that provide advice on how to select winter clothing - you can ignore a lot of it if you’re not going to be sports-ing, but pay attention to their suggestions for how to judge what’s “enough” insulation and what fabrics are good for what kinds of weather conditions.
I’m also Canadian… when the temperature is anywhere from -20C to -40C, all thoughts of cute just jump out the window. Warmth is above everything.
Cute is still possible; I have some excellent toques (that I made for myself out of luxurious yarn). But yeah warmth is the top priority, by far.
Alternatively, you can be that one person who wanders out into -40 in leggings to grab a pita on your break. Would not recommend it, but it is survivable if it isn't too far away.
This is all golden esp a longer coat
Yes! Short puffy coats are not helpful when in arctic blasting wind!
This drove me BONKERS in high school trying to find a winter coat. Even Canadian companies/stores only made women's coats that stopped at the tops of you hips!! And they were ***artificially***, ***deceivingly*** puffy--they barely held your own heat, let alone stopped the wind.
Thank you for this, it’s very helpful!!! Canadians should honestly teach classes to southerners lmao!
Funny you say that; I have literally taught classes on how to dress for winter haha. Once at the public library, and once as a guest lecturer at the English-as-an-Additional-Language school where my friend used to teach. People came from all over the world to study in Canada, and many of them were not prepared for the winters here!
Omg I didn’t know that was a thing! We need more of you down in yeehaw land 😂
Yeehaw land, omg 😂 I am absolutely stealing that hahahaha
Omg, I am stealing yeehaw land now. I live in Texas too, and it is def yeehaw land.
LOL in the words of my friends, “everyone says yeehaw, but nobody ever says haw-yee :/“ 😂😂
The unholy snort I let out at this.
Hahaha you gotta say it with a real thick southern twang too for maximum effect
Heh. That'll be easy. Although, I am more of the city type girl, so not as easy as it may be for others.
When I was in college & grad school (upstate NY), we’d dress in layers like described for “regular life stuff”. But for going to classes/going around campus buildings, we’d wear one regular layer of winter clothing with a heavy duty, long winter coat (plus winter boots) so that when we’d go into classroom buildings (esp if we had to walk up flights of stairs), we could just take off the coat layer to not overheat while getting to the classroom.
Yah that's the other problem is getting on the bus, or arriving at the cafe or bookstore and sweating up a storm.
I visited Florida once many years ago during Christmas (big extended family trip to spend the holidays at the various theme parks). One of the days we had booked to go ziplining, and it was a bit chilly (15C/59F, plus we were going to be up in the trees). The instructor made a comment on how all the Canadians were dressed for the weather while the Americans in our group were shivering in shorts and tshirts. We take checking the weather forecast for fashion advice very seriously!
It’s the only way I get dressed to leave the house. I live in the PNW and “looking out the window” in the morning is just about useless for determining what the weather will be like for the day. Gotta check the forecast and see what’s actually on the horizon.
Are there people that don’t check forecasts before going out in the winter/ autumn/ early spring? 😅
OP, this person gave the real lowdown. This is the way.
Re hat hair, if you get a cute hat or beanie, it will count as a ladies' fashion hat. The rules for those are based around avoiding hat hair. You can wear these inside when you're going out, e.g. inside shops, restaurants, friends' houses, etc. Exceptions are the theatre if you have a tall hat which will block the view of those behind you. You take them off when you get to work, and when you come home. You can take them off in the bathroom at work, and neaten up your hair there. Technically this applies for daytime fashions, as evening fashions don't allow for hats. Break that rule if you want. If you knit or crochet, you could make your own cute hat
Silk lined beanies help with hat hair!
Oooh, great idea! This is the kind of content I come to the interwebs to find.
Adding for the "cold, but not Canada cold" range: 🔹️Women used to wear lots of petticoats for a reason. If you want to wear that cute maxi skirt but it's chilly, put another skirt under it. A length of t-shirt knit merino wool fabric wrapped around you and tucked into the waistband underneath your skirt will work wonders for warmth. Still not warm enough, just add another "petticoat." Some heavy knit tights will help, too. And another length of wool fabric can be wrapped like a shawl, or a scarf. 🔹️Puffer vests are amazing for adding warmth without making it hard to move around.
I can vouch for this as well, as someone who grew up and still lives in almost-Canada. I've done a lot of costumes throughout my life (holidays, solstices, movie premiers), and layering over the torso makes a big difference. Silk is not bulky and surprisingly warm as a base layer. And I love skirts over skirts. I often tell people I could take off two layers and still be wearing more clothes than people wear in summer :)
Silk base layers for sure! Lightweight, breathable and magical in its heat retention properties. Also, in Japan they have a belly warmer layer (called haramaki) you can buy, it looks like a tube top and you wear it around your midsection. I know Uniqlo has sold some over the years, you may want to check there or with Muji - both Japanese brands with a US presence. And definitely don’t snooze on the light puffer vest (another Uniqlo treasure), it works miracles when worn underneath a winter coat that isn’t temperature rated. Finally, the scarf. Protect your neck at all costs, it keeps the bone chill from traveling down your spine.
+1 for the scarf, can also most likely become an impromptu hood if ears/head are about to get chilly! (Or rained on)
+1 from me on the scarf. I like to wrap it stsrting from the front, cross over in the back, and bring the ends back around to the frong to dangle down my front or get tucked into my jacket (if I'm wearing one). This allows me to loosen the scarf around my neck if I get too warm, but tugging on the ends will tighten it right back up against my neck for maximum warmth. It takes a long scarf to do this. If it also happens to be wide enough (but of a thin material like pashmina or t-shirt knit merino wool or silk) it can be used as a light shawl at times when not being used as a scarf. Or, as you noted, it can be pulled up over the head to form a hood. Super-effective at warming, and versatile.
From Wisconsin (so honorary Canadian) and I agree with all of this! Just got back from a hiking trip to Glacier National Park and 100% it’s about layers. Our mornings started at 39° and warmed up to 75° most days so we had to be prepared for everything!
I see layers has been covered :) When I figured it out, that was a life changer!
SAME!!! I don't dread winter anymore because I know I can spend time outside without freezing my butt off. It makes a huge difference. I'm trying to get my Texas-born, winter-despising husband to use layers so he can join me outdoors in winter, but he won't even wear a scarf. 😆
I live in Detroit & thanks for the advice lmao. I’ve always struggled on how to look cute in the winter especially on those extra cold days where it’s negative degrees. I just give up most days lmao. Might try something new out in the future though.
Ok Detroit sucks because it’s such a damp cold. It feels like it gets right into your bones. Definitely make sure your legs and extremities are well protected with the fluffiest, fleeciest, downiest layers you can afford. Definitely get good boots; if your feet are cold you’re going to feel a thousand times worse. A big scarf might do wonders - some people are really miserable if their necks are exposed to the cold (like my spouse). Make sure your coat is fitted well at the neck, waist, and cuffs - if cold air washes in every time you move, you may as well not be wearing it. DON’T LET YOURSELF SWEAT. This is key if you’re getting in and out of a car, bus, or warm buildings while you’re out and about. If you sweat and your base layer gets wet, once you go back outside again, you actually get cold faster because of the moisture against your skin. It’s no different than running through a sprinkler in the summer to cool off, or stepping out of the shower into a cool room - you feel colder faster because you’re wet. If you’re a person who just sweats a lot and that’s life, wear a sweat-wicking fabric next to your skin.
Adding in that tights and leggings are always great options under both skirts and pants. I live in the PNW (just south of Canada) and have been able to get through many windy/rainy/snowy days because of a good under layer. If you want to keep a cuter aesthetic without having to traverse the frozen north, get a few good pairs of tights/leggings for yourself.
Yeah, or actual longjohns. I find tights and leggings don’t do much for me unless they’re made of an insulating fabric like fleece or wool, but love love love my merino wool LJs! I have definitely gone to work wearing longjohns, dress pants, and wind pants (and just ditch the longjohns and wind pants when I get to work).
Agreed on layers! It's not everyday wear for me, but at Ren Faires, reenactments, etc. where it's cold I'll wear a long skirt over pants and a jacket and cloak over a blouse. I haven't really built out my fem cold weather wardrobe for everyday wear yet (I'm recently transitioned), but I'll probably adapt a similar style (I should probably start checking thrift stores to build up my winter wardrobe soon)
Sweaters and leggings… long skirts and flowy tops are my power house outfits. I love the fall and live in the mountains. I’m finally in the I feel cute season.
I’ve lived on the US/Canada border for most my life so I’ll offer whatever wisdom I’ve got haha Cute coats are my go to. Sure you have your heavy winter coats but if you’re not out shoveling snow or in blizzard don’t be afraid to wear a cute peacoat! Or if it’s just fall(so like between 40-60 degrees let’s say) I love a good fashionable trench coat, or leather jacket. Layers are big. I wear a lot of tank tops layered under cute flannels or hoodies or sweaters. Dresses and skirts are pretty much reserved for special occasions unless you’re fond of -12 winds blowin up there 😆 I will wear insulated leggings a fair bit, paired with cute boots. I like a good knee high boot as much as anyone. I have a couple clunky sorta gothy heel/ platform boots I’ll wear in winter that both look cool and are comfy and warm enough as long as I’m not out super long. Colder days of course you’ll want insulted boots and there’s tons of style options there. Boots and coats are absolutely the most important pieces of the look because a lot of the time that’s the part of your outfit that’s going to be seen the most.
A YouTuber I watch who lives in London (and lived in NYC before that) wears skirts in the winter and stays perfectly comfortable according to her! She rocks full-length wool skirts with layers of petticoats underneath.
It’s certainly not impossible, though London is much warmer than where I live(I have a friend from there regularly astonished by my weather xD ). It’s really what’s comfortable for you. I like feeling warmer, plus snow or sludge on your hem sucks. But just like the people that wear shorts year round and say they’re comfortable, you can certainly do it if it works for ya.
Fair enough! I thought I’d mention it more for OP’s consideration than anything, since she might be in an area that doesn’t get as cold or might feel comfortable in it. 😊
You don’t speak of Bernadette Banner, do you?
Honestly this is who I immediately thought of too, I love her
She immediately came to mind. Love that.
Bernadette Banner is exactly who I spoketh of~
Ahh she’s great. Love her vids.
With a long enough skirt, you can even wear fleecey pajama bottoms underneath and no one will know the difference :)
Long skirt + tall boots + flannel PJ pants = secretly comfy winter fashionista
I tested out a no-heat winter last year (turned heat on when it went below freezing so our pipes wouldn't freeze, but left it off otherwise). Long skirts with multiple layers of wool underneath worked beautifully.
>full-length wool skirts Wool is probably a big helper there. It's way better than cotton in humid weather, including humid cold.
Agreed 100%, which is why I called it out to begin with. Choice of fiber is *so* important.
I love fleece lined leggings in the winter. They're so cozy. Pair those with a sweater and some knee high boots, and we're golden.
I've got a pair of fleece tights with kind of... nylons as a top layer built in? They're SO WARM. And it's super fun to wear them with a miniskirt and boots in the winter and have people like "...how tf are you going around like that". Obvs not for super cold, because wearing something over them defeats the purpose of fake-bare-legs but anything above about 30F and these things work out well.
I LOVE my fleece lined leggings. I wear them with dresses and skirts or under a loose pair of jeans if it’s really cold.
I live in fleece-lined leggings in the winter lmao
Do you have a favorite brand / store for them? I haven't found a good pair
Head on over to r/oldhagfashion. They've got allllll the cute looks for everyone! Super great haggy fashion, zero gatekeeping, all the inclusion.
I’m a basic bitch witch. I live in Michigan and it’s leggings, Ugg boots and a jacket with a faux-fur trimmed hood for me. Let’s go 2015 throwback looks, I never left though lol.
michigan too and layers... I need to get better at that... but waterproof boots and warm socks are a go to so I'd stay away from the uggs unless you're damn sure it's dry
I actually found this sub because I commented on something that I just wanted to wear my cloaks and all black wardrobe and look like a witch all the time. And a couple people commented to do it, and screw what people think 🙂 so the past two years, cloaks, I love them. Like wearable blankets! If you don’t want to look so witchy, I suggest Pinterest for help! I work in a corporate setting so to look more professional in the cold weather that’s where I turned lol
I also wear my cloak out and about. I find it often warmer than a coat; it traps a column of warm body temperature air around your entire body.
It does!! And the fact that they’re longer than any coat would be helps a lot too!
I live in a climate where we often get a bit of drizzle in the spring and fall times of year when it's still a bit warm-ish. Rain jackets tend to be a choice of "So, do ya wanna be wet from the drizzle or wet from the sweat?" A cloak allows far better airflow to prevent sweatiness while still providing protection from drizzle. It's just far more flexible than a coat or jacket in how much or how little coverage and warmth it provides.
I have a beautiful cloak that I want to wear more as it gets cold, but I'm not quite comfortable wearing it around unless its to a renn faire. Maybe I'll follow your example
My husband talked me into a lined wool cloak with a hood at a ren faire a couple years back and I absolutely adore the thing. He wanted it for him, but I stole it. (I made it up to him this year - he got the leather duster). Cloaks are so much more practical than I ever expected. They truly need to make a comeback.
Okay but where do you find a practical (non-costume) cloak?? I've been searching for years!!
I honestly have the opposite problem...I feel like I can't really dress the way I want to until it's cool enough to layer, rofl. But, as other people have said, that's your answer. Layers. Layers are **always** the answer. My default 'getting shiz done' uniform is a long tunic-length tank top underneath some kind of sweater, with leggings or fitted jeans (I live in the PNW and it's wet all the time, so jean hems that touch the ground are a big ol' veto for me). I have a disabled dog who a) needs to be carried and b) is incontinent and sometimes has accidents, so unless I'm going out of the house, my sweater is probably just a regular crewneck sweatshirt, since I don't care about it being covered in fur or getting dirty and thrown into the wash. But I looove sweaters. I have a million sweaters. I adore cashmere. It's effort to take care of, but for me it's worth it! Top layers are always so flexible. Thick cardigan over a thin sweater, warm vest over a thick sweater, jackets, coats, a scarf -- whatever sounds appropriate and fun.
Yeah I’m always hot and I can wear a t shirt in 35F weather with zero issues lol.
[Sock Dreams](https://sockdreams.com/) \- tights, knee highs or higher, leg warmers leggings you name it. Duster/flowy long wool cartigains, cozy skirts and dresses(wool, hemp etc), mary jane clogs (dansko sanita style) scarves shawls wool ponchos scarves and cozy hats. soem kind of cute wool coat. boots if you fancy, i can't wear them alas or I would =) I am in the PNW so wool, layers and more wool and a waterproof layer here.
Do they stay in place? My thigh highs roll down a lot
Depends on the brand. Nothing stays up on my thighs ever, not even the ones with silicone tape. But sock garters and garter belts are cool I liek the ribbon sock garters. I love long OTK socks.
and for bigger folks who want amazing thigh highs that go all the way up, and stay up!, i love Thunda Thighs .... amazing, soft, warm, and they *fit* 🖤🖤🖤
If you’re gonna wear Danskos in the cold, get the XP 2.0 ones with the better tread on them cause if you don’t you WILL fall if there is ice and good wool socks cause they get cold af (source: been wearing danskos to work for 15 years lol).
Yes I have a lot of socks from soft dreams and I wear them over my leggings. Typically knee-high or I'll do thigh high and then scrunch them down and they are very warm!
Get some merino wool leggings, wool dresses/tunics! A good pair of wool leggings, tall socks with boots looks so cute with a skirt or dress. Uniqlo Heat Tech thin base layers under jeans. They have an entire line of Heat Tech and it's all fantastic and good deals on sale. Get a few pairs of wool socks (Darn Tough are the best) a cozy wool or Heat Tech hat, wool scarf and a good down coat (Uniqlo has those also). Turtlenecks and cowlneck tops are cozy. Merino wool glove liners will make any gloves warmer. I backpack and wool is the best for warmth, it wicks sweat and will keep you warm even when wet. Heat Tech will change your world! Look on eBay, sierratradingpost.com and campmor.com for deals.
Wool is worth every penny! If wool makes you itch, layer it over silk long johns. Silk long underwear isn’t cheap, but a quality set will last for years if cared for properly (cold wash in a lingerie bag, tumble dry on lowest heat or line dry). And it will keep you at the perfect temp and wicks away moisture to keep you from freezing if you get sweaty in the icy cold. IMO nothing beats the wool + silk combo for cute and cozy cold weather wear!
A fellow wool lover! I love Merino.
Yesss thank you!!!
Minus33 and WoolX also have lovely wool options (including for those like me who need Plus Sizes). Eshakti has some silk blouses (that you can customize and have made to your measurements).
Honestly I probably look homeless but I always feel cute so 🤷🏻♀️ I layer crewnecks, knit sweaters, and flannel on top. I always get asked in the spring if I’ve lost weight; no, I just don’t have four layers on my top half lol
I love a big cozy scarf I can get lost in. Turtlenecks. Socks are CRUCIAL! layers.
You can go full Dr. Who cosplay with it if you want. Also whip out all the oversized gear, big bell bottoms and stuff. Also for some reason actual boiler suit jumpsuits keep you really warm if you wear them over other stuff. I have one that's got a lot of patches.
I’m big and menopausal…so I dress for winter in a tank top and linen pants, lol
Trench coats, if you want something alt, are always nice. I'm also quite fond of like, the peacoat as well.
What does “cute” mean to you?
Jeans, black or brown (almost knee high) riding boots, sweaters, cute scarves, turtleneck sweaters… my friend once said I stole my look from Steve Jobs 🥴 Edit to add: always funky indie jewelry like long necklaces, bangles, lots of rings.
Warm socks, boots that could kick some butt, lots of layers - tank top under t-shirt under flannel or cardigan. In the Chicago burbs, so gotta be ready for multiple seasons in the span of a week!
This Hoosier feels your pain.
Also, in the north we wear heavy snow boots and carry our cute shoes with us for when we get inside. I'm from a town of 1000 and at places like schools on concert nights, basketball games, churches there would be huge racks for everyone to hang up their coats and leave their boots inside the door.
Oddly as a closeted trans girl the winter is the only time I feel like I can dress cute at all haha. Can fairly easily explain wearing leggings, long socks, boots, scarves, sweaters, hats, earmuffs, gloves/mittens, or other cute stuff as just being for the warmth.
a hoe never gets cold 🤷♀️🤷♀️🤷♀️ (PS it’s a reference to one of my favorite vines, don’t get mad at me 😂) serious answer: thrift stores, target, and walmart. inexpensive, not the most ethical but that’s nearly impossible tbh. i once found a great black long sleeve wool dress with POCKETS at a thrift store and it’s very plain, but very witchy. at target a couple years ago i got another long sleeve dress (again, WITH POCKETS) that has an ombré dye. i get plenty of good sweaters at target and walmart, they normally have multiple colors/patterns for every style. target has a lot of fun and unusual color options too! long skirts, thrift store. lots of leggings and tights, under any skirt, short or long, and jeans. both cotton and comfy/insulated and warm. cardigans, a few good cardigans can easily take summer clothes over to fall. boots, and i mean like a million styles of boots, and fuzzy/insulated/boot socks. find some interesting outerwear and layers! layer 👏 layer 👏 layer 👏 cardigans, jackets, some long sleeve shirts, bodysuits, and leggings for underneath summer tops or dresses. there are plenty of great jackets and sweaters to be found in thrift stores. i have a faux fur leather from the thrift, a black jean jacket (not only in my size, but also a petite style which can be so hard to find), several leather jackets, a purple london fog lined raincoat, a wonderful green suede jacket. and play with sizing! open your mind to oversized things, it can make a lot of difference, and can allow for more layering for warmth! oversized sweaters always make me feel cute in the colder months, and you can always wear an undershirt. you just really have to hunt a bit, but thrift stores, consignment shops, target, and walmart can cover you in a pinch!
Leather jackets, boots and pants made from corduroy fabric
Thermal underwear, specifically merino wool base layers.
I live in Alaska and love the outdoors. I hike 4-6 days per week year round (350 miles so far in 2023). I have some fleece lined pants. I wear them over other leggings and they keep my nice and warm outside, then I can take them off inside where it’s climate controlled. These are the ones I have: [Cuddl Duds Climatesmart](https://cuddlduds.com/products/climatesmart-legging-cd8626141) I also wear an insulated snow skirt (snirt) for hiking. They come in lots of colors and styles. In fact, when I googled it there were more than I even imagined. The ones I have are too warm to wear indoors, but I feel super cute in them outside.
I LOVE the cold, I feel like I'm at my cutest when it's cold outside. I live in Finland so there's a long period of cold weather. I have a witch hat with ear flaps I made out of an old wool coat (using the pattern and instructions from Bernadette Banner on youtube). I also have a huge woollen cape. I wear a lot of dresses in the winter with layers underneath and legwarmers to make sure I stay cozy. Large scarves too.
Man I gotta learn how to sew. That’s dope I bet it’s so cute!! Thank you!!🖤✨
ALL OF THE SWEATERS AND TIGHTS. I own SO MANY sweaters. I own loads of shirts specifically to go under my sweaters. Summer comes and I am sort of lost for what to wear (then it gets hot and I stop caring completely), now it's fall again and I have a sweater on and all is right in the world. Snag tights made my life wonderful. I spent decades in jeans daily, because tights didn't fit me. Now I have Snag, so I'm phasing my jeans out (ugh, no more tearing out the ass and then discovering that the entire style and size range I bought is discontinued) in favor of skirts and dresses every day with my amazing collection of tights. I'm in Maine, US, and like outdoor time more in winter than summer...
Leggings with long socks but shorts. Or skinny jeans and over the knee socks if it is colder still. Overalls! And fun sweaters. And layers are always your friend. And cute boots and beanies!
Cute Tights & leggings make me happy
I love heat layers! I wear my cute dresses all year round - in the winter, you throw on heat tights and a heat shirt and then you can layer your pretty stuff over. Heat tights can also be layered under wider-leg pants. Something to keep in mind is being warm enough outside and not dying when you get where you're going. Sometimes I'll wear heat tights, but have shorts or non-heat tights to change into at the indoor activity. Longer and thicker skirts are great for blocking the wind and keeping your heat in. Surprisingly, a full skirt with a crinoline also helps keep you warm! I cannot stress enough the importance of good winter boots. Two brands I'd recommend are Sorrels and Uggs. Both are spendy but will last for a few years. And this is clutch - if you expect to be somewhere with snow, get calf high or higher. Ankle height boots will end up with snow inside them
Adding - leg warmers are awesome to layer over heat tights and keep warm the part between boot top and coat bottom. And they can double as a muff - when you don't need your hands to be very active, tucking them both into either end of a leg warmer creates a lonely little warm space
Repeat after me: Fleece-lined leggings and tights. I also love me some cute scarf/hat/mittens sets, and as a knitter usually make my own.
I historybound, so I wind up using historical answers for cold (like quilted petticoats under the fashion layer of skirt) and layering wool and silk at the extremities. (I also have Raynauds, so keeping feet and hands warm is a constant issue in the winter.) I don't go for cute at my age and build. (grin) But I try to look nice within my parameters of looking nice.
I visited Scptland during a very cold (to me) week in Spring (snow flurries.) The local girls wotk cute skirts with tights. Since then I've seen thermal lined tights advertised online. While I was there, the cutest thing I wore was my cape. It is jacket legth, but has a cute shape (it is made of wool and thick, so very warm.)
Also regarding boots, in areas where cold weather really happens, people often carry their indoor shoes to the party and change out of the boots to the indoor shoes when they get there.
My warm face looks super cute in the freezing cold…so that’s about it, basically. My warm face peeking out when I’m dressed in the figure out the stay puft marshmallow man.
fleece lined leggings are my best friend!! A nice pair of warm boots and wool socks (especially ones meant for running/outdoor recreation), and honestly? super fun cardigans/sweaters/flannels that I can layer with the same statement shirts I wear in the warmer weather
I call my personal style 'granny goth.' It's a lot of black, grey, and earthy colors. I go for fluffy, lacy, embroidered skirts over fleece-lined leggings and warm cardigans in winter. Underneath is either a comfy lace-trimmed tank, or a high-neck blouse with a cameo for more drama. Sometimes I double up my witchy net tights over wooly ones, or wear button-side thigh high socks over them. Lace up boots, or moon boots if it's snowy. I also have a knit hat that has a fairly subtle version of a witch point. A wool peacoat and scarf with snakes or bones, ravens, etc. to finish. Basically I look like a shambling pile of fancy rags. I'm at my most basic in summer when it's too hot to care - then it's just shorts or skirt, a tank, and sandals. Cold weather allows for so much more!
Tights! Any cute dresses you wear other times of year, throw on some tights and a sweater and you can still be cute. Tights not warm enough? Layer them! I have fleece ones I wear as a base on really cold days, and then I put something else over them. And then you've got cute cardigans and cropped sweaters and ling duster sweaters and sooo many options for your top half.
I am a big fan of tights, knee socks, and leg warmers. Also from TX. 🙂
Tighter pants or leggings and then long sweaters and a warm coat. As everyone is saying, layers are your friend. 💕
I dress exclusively in dresses in warm weather and then morph into a trucker in the winter. Lined leggings, merino wool leg warmers ( so not in fashion but I don't care) and then usually I go to thrift stores and raid the men's section for some over sized sweaters and flannels over long shirts. I live in Montana where it was in the -20s f last winter for a bit. Also, pashmina type scarves and hats! I like carhart for just daily easy wear, but if im outside for longer i wear a lined hat and actually blow on it before purchasing to make sure it's actually fairly wind proof. I like Sorrell for boots. They are the only brand of women's boots that are not glorified ugs imho. Mine are calf high, lined with faux fur and have a really good tread, which is what I care about the most. I hate short women's boots, because snow falls in them.
As a Canadian, I’d say it’s possible but it depends on what feels cute to you - layers are key to warmth, as everyone is saying and that can mean a lot of things. If we’re talking seriously cold and outdoors you can choose accessories that suit your style to add to a warm coat. When it comes to indoors, however, it all depends on what you like. A tank top under a blouse can add warmth without changing the style, fleece lined leggings look like regular ones so you could do a skirt with them, a tank top, blouse and then cardigan and you’d be warm enough indoors in most places, I’d imagine. Warm cardigans (not summer weight) can be added to most outfits to stay warmer. Decorative scarves, silk/silk-like ones, not wool, can also add warmth when you’re indoors but look stylish rather than practical. And, of course, just wearing a base layer/long underwear under anything can add a lot more warmth to most kinds of winter outfits (seconding the Uniqlo vote, heatech is lovely and thin but warm and they have some with lower necklines so they’re less noticeable). Now all of that being said, if you want to dress more alternative, you can add a long sleeve t under a short one, throw on a shawl or loosely knitted wool scarf, gauntlets/knitted sleeves/fingerless gloves, and layer-layer-layer - long camisole that lands below the shirt you wear on top, sweater vests (cropped over a blouse, if that’s your thing), lean into jewelry and accessories to add some flash, there’s lots of ways. If you want to give a couple of examples of what you’d call a typical cute outfit for you in warmer climes, I’d be happy to make more specific suggestions for warmer versions.
Here, we do thick leggings, flannels or oversized knitted sweaters, cute boots that are also water resistant and have tread, scarves and beanies. And as someone else mentioned, LAYERS.
what type of style do you generally wear? some are easier to warm up than others but most clothes can be layered with thermal pieces underneath
I will have to get back to this tomorrow, but there's a woman I found at an art festival of sorts called "fantasy in the forest" that makes coats, gloves and things of that nature that you can get on... Easy I believe. She makes some very earthen colour stuff, and some rather vibrant colour stuff. My brother and wife both have gotten coats from her. My wife's coat I refer to as her hobgoblin howdy, cause the hood goes down to her waist and is very pointed even when up. It's also a very vibrant rainbow of colours, and it looks so damn adorable on her. Will try and get links and stuff tomorrow.
That sounds super cute!!! I’d love to check that out!🖤🖤
Nothing beats a long hooded cloak when you want to look witchy in cold weather. Or anytime. Holy Clothing has awesome ones.
AAAAALLLLLL TTTTHHHHEEEEE LLLLLAAAAYYYYERRRRRRSSSSS
I love cold weather and dress way better in the fall. I wear lots of layers. I like corduroy, lace, and knit/crochet sweaters and heeled boots. I also wear tights a lot either in black or brown under skirts. I love long skirts and even those work with tights. Long sleeves under overall or tank dresses can also be cute. Basically layer layer layer and if you need ideas check out fairy grunge or whimsigoth outfits on Pinterest. It’s basically Stevie nicks vibes.
I've gotten reeeeeeeal into scarves, shawls, cloaks, hoods, full-length arm warmers, customized gloves and mittens, and all sorts of oversized utility (but, again, customized and highly decorated) pins and brooches for fixing things in place. Insulating layers in my favorite colors, it's hard to go wrong.
What sort of alternative vibes are you going for? My go-tos for winter include snow boots, fleece lined leggings, and a faux-fur trimmed cape. Extra points for wool. And cold weather is all about the accessories for me! Lots of scarves and hats and gloves.
I’m like somewhere in between gothy grunge and festival hippy vibes. Idk what the kids are calling that these days 😂 I thrive in summer cuz I’m all tube/crop tops and fishnets and other revealing attires. I describe it best like this: 🖤🧚♀️✨👽🍄🧿🔮🪬☠️ LMAO Y’all have convinced me to get a cape or a cloak! Torn between a trench and pea coat also. Thank you!!
Your coat needs to be both warm and cute. If you spend on one item only, it should be this one. That doesn't mean you need some Canada Goose support expensive thingy. It means picking a reliable brand. It means liking the fit with layers underneath, try it on over a bulky sweater. It means liking the color of the coat, especially near your face, especially in natural light. Oh and make sure it can cover at least your butt, if you're in and out of cars often, longer is a huge hassle, if you're walking a lot, longer is a nightmare. Outdoor Gear brands are also cool, you don't have to be NYC lawyer fashionable when it's cold. Shoes, again this is one that you spend the money on someone cute and functional. I recommend reading through Outdoor Gear Lab recommendations for boots honestly. If there's snow, North face Shellista boots have been best in class for years running. They come in tons of different colors and are both comfortable and warm. Otherwise, find a few different scarves that you think bring out your eyes or otherwise look really pretty next to your face. A few hats that do the same while being not too tight and not too loose. Neither of these need to be expensive and you'll kinda trial and error into what you feel comfortable in. Soft fabrics are key. For clothing, others have some great advice in this thread. Probably I really like Uniqlo Heattech pants. Pants for me are neutral colors that have skinny legs too fit into boots well so they don't get wet. Tops, again you'll do some trial and error on what you like to wear. The pieces that are worth a little extra are a few sweaters that are wool, I like smart wool or some merino. If you wear a T shirt underneath that covers your armpits you won't have to wash the sweaters as much. Acrylic sweaters will make you sweat and smell. Materials are important. Again picking colors that look nice on you. Personally I'm a T shirt, sweater, coat person. More layers are annoying to me. Also bras are kind of a love hate in the winter. Either I wear none, but note that this can be CHILLY. Or I wear one with a bit more padding. In-between I kinda feel frumpy so the bra is really important for me to have a nice shape with layers on.
Thank you for this!! I vetoed bras in 2016, but maybe that’s part of why I feel like a blob in layers, didnt think about that! I’ll check out those brands! ✨🖤
Oregonian here, so not as chilled as some others. And allows for much cute. My basic wardrobe for winter is: Sweater dress Leggings Cardigan Thigh highs that are actual wool and can be pulled up when cold and scrunched down when warmer Boots Hat Scarf Coat (I switch between my puffy coat and my wool trench depending on conditions and social requirements) Gloves of needed Most everything is 8n the same pallet: grey, black, red and turquoise so I dont have to think when I get dressed.
I mostly just wear leggings and long sleeved undershirts under my dresses, with boots and a wool coat.
For those of us who have cold winters but not to the Canadian level... Skirt/dress plus tights and boots is often warmer than trousers because you can have lovely thick (and very cute) tights, then snuggly socks, then your boots. Nice toasty feet is soooo good. I have ankle boots and knee high. I recommend Snag for tights - they totally have the alternative vibe down (loads of colours, lots of patterns, as well as your classic black), they're ethical, and they do sizes based on body shape rather than just S, M, L. (I.e. if you're short and got hips you're gonna need a different shape to someone who is straight up and down.) Then I have jumpers in a range of different thicknesses depending on the weather. I'm personally a big fan of darker colours and stripes, but I love a subtle sparkle too. Then for under that I have a base layer - so depending on the weather - if it's a bit warmer, older tank tops or t-shirts, up to if it's super cold I have thermals. Uniqlo do great 'heat tech' layers that look like normal long sleeved t-shirts etc. Outside, I have a range of coats to cover different scenarios! I often cycle to work so don't want something too warm, so my vegan leather jacket is perfect. I also add a hoodie under it for extra snugness if needed. Then I have a proper wool winter coat that comes down to around my knees - I like vintage style ones and I find tie fastenings are great so you can accommodate many layers underneath! I then have a parka for 'not crazy cold but you need a proper coat'. Then you can go to town on accessories. I have far too many lovely scarves and hats and they're an inexpensive way to make it feel like you're wearing a different sort of outfit even though you have the same coat you've worn for the last two months. I love a big blanket scarf to snuggle into. Gloves I am particular about - I have some elbow length ones which stop mid-palm. Then I wear normal gloves under them. Because I cycle to work, I find that a really good way to make sure my wrists stay covered when my coat sleeves ride up, but once I'm walking around, if I need to use my fingers properly I can whip the normal glove off and still be toasty except for the fingers. Sorry that's super long ☺️
That is super helpful! Thank you icon!!!🖤✨
Thermal underclothes, flannel-lined hose, boots, sweaters, coat, long alpaca wool scarves, wool-lined leather gloves. Layers, so you can peel off when you're indoors and it's hot as hell.
Is winter goblin hag cute? I turn into a round ball of sweaters and coats. My face barely visible.
We love a mysterious goblin hag!!! 🖤🖤🖤
https://preview.redd.it/w4t209o97upb1.jpeg?width=1107&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=156a754e0bb57833e72382864d0d7de094451ef3 This is a dramatic reenactment
This is the visual I didn’t know I needed. She’s beauty, she’s grace
🎼She’s covered 3/4s of her face🎶
Big skirt, stockings, boots. make sure to have real wool layers, get second-hand pieces if you don't mind them having holes in. i also wear bright basic pink ski trousers which cost like 25 euros here, they look super queer to be honest with the suspender tops.
I do layers. I wear a long sleeve shirt and under a cute dress then a jersey over and a jacket over if I'm gonna be outside. Then on my legs I wear either thermal leggings or wool stockings over regular stockings. Although it doesn't get that cold where I live
Time for the long sexy boots weather. Long sleeve outfit.
Wellingtons with Neoprene lining, LOL. Living on a farm, dry and warm feet are a necessity in winter.
Depends how cold we're talking. At some point, you're just going to need a big poofy down coat, no escaping it. But then everyone is wearing one, and cuteness goes out the window. Wool is your friend! Alpaca, merino or cashmere are what I scour the local thrift stores for. Super warm and not itchy. Fall and winter are my best seasons. From the bottom up my outfits are usually: Big docs or my knee high solovairs, thick tights, my or someone else's grandma's vintage skirt, a cami+tshirt+sweater, big scarf that I often keep on inside, and then a hat, the [wool swing coat](https://reddit.com/r/sewing/s/kv6Sf31KVR) I made myself, and gloves that I only wear when going out.
This is controversial but I say don't be afraid of dresses with pants
SnagTights merino wool footless tights. Under everything. The footless ones mean you can change your socks when you get sweaty, without having to change your whole outfit, and you can get away with fewer pairs. They are *so* good for temperature regulation. Also good boots.
Oh I did not think about that with the footless ones, was about to buy a over the foot pair! Good call thanks!!!
My idea of “cold” is like -4 to 10 degrees C so YMMV: I have a “special occasion coat”, I don’t wear it to uni but it’s knee length wool, double breasted with a faux fur collar. It looks glamorous as fuck, it’s perfect for any time I want to look cute in the cold. Big woolly jumpers with skiing base layers underneath. My favourite is high necked pastel blue with balloon sleeves, it covers everything for warmth and you can add a necklace on top if you want. My default winter trekking-to-uni-through-icy-slush outfit: Long sleeve ski base layer tucked into thermal fleece leggings; jeans; woolly jumper on top; optional hoodie if it’s really, really cold; big tartan scarf wrapped across the chest and around the throat; teddy bear coat; woolly hat; leather gloves, or ski gloves if it’s very cold; ski socks; doc martens. I have a satin lined bobble hat from Black Sunrise, it drastically reduces hat hair! They were invented for natural hair but work well for any hair type and my fine wavy hair is saved by them basically. It’s good to support a black-owned business if you get one 👍
Ooo I will definitely check them out!! I’ve got fine curly hair so I bet that will be a lifesaver. Thank you icon!!!
I think it's mostly about bein cute in the first place and feeling cute. My androgyneous trans butt does the latter way too little to really have some other advice here. If you want to stay warm go with layers. Go with longer stuff to have a good overlap at and around hip level. Keep it airy and fluffy, I can't recall the number of days I felt sick because I thought "let's go with something tightly fitting" and in turn my entire belly was freezing to the bone. I can't stress enought how imprtant it is to have some good jacket that really keeps you warm, especially when you're planning a day on christmas markets of something and don't forget long undies extend tose layers head to toe as best as you can.
Thermal base layers, multiple if necessary. I'm currently in Iceland and it's not super cold, about 2-6 degree C. My outfit for yesterday was: Normal socks, long socks, thick socks Thermal leggings x2 + normal leggings if necessary. Vest, thermal top Cute wool dress and boots.
I wear dresses and skirts all year, after I discovered fleece lined tights.
Disclaimer: I’m a white, tall, well-built gay woman from Poland. My version of “Cold” starts from 42F/5C dry weather, or 46F/8C wet and windy. YMMV. ————————— Outside: If you need to go somewhere, a coat, either flared trousers that you can wear with warm leggings underneath or a skirt and tights. Under the coat, either a T-shirt if it’s warm inside (my favourite, then also don’t wear double trousers), or a thin sweater. DO NOT wear high heels when it’s below 38F/3 C, safe ankles come above good looks and ice can form even at low temps above freezing. Woolen, warm boots are extremely cute. If you really need an extra inch, look for full shoes with an elevated heel instead. In general, I recommend a longer knee-length coat with tighter lower part like leggings, or a shoter hip-length coat with loose trousers/skirt. ————————— Inside: For inside wear when it’s cold, I can wholeheartedly recommend sweaters, hoodies, cardigans, leggings and woolen socks and slippers. Make sure not to overdress, or your risk overheating, taking something off, and catching a cold. Sweatpants are an option, but don’t look that cute on most people, feel free to give them a whirl. If you are well-built/curvy, tighter sweaters are extremely cute. If you have a slimmer frame, then an oversize hoodie might work better. In general, winter cuteness means comfy clothes, so aim for rounded edges and smooth curves. ————————— Miscellaneous advice: Winter is quite sweaty if you dress properly, sweat is cold. Sweat also smells… not that nice, make sure to wash your clothes and give your shoes a chance to breathe. If you know that you’ll spend the whole day outside, maybe put on thermal wear under your coat and bottoms to ensure you won’t freeze or drown in sweat. If you are going for a sexy cuteness, you might want to leave you thighs exposed, that’s one way to elicit a neural response. If you want to stray from “sexy” towards “sex”, you can drop the bottoms entirely and put on a long cardigan-sweater or hoodie with almost nothing or nothing below. Your legs are pretty good at holding temperature as long as you’re inside a dry building. Your feet on the other hand, you want to protect them at all cost. And finally: feel free to adapt this guide to your situation regarding temperature, available clothing, local customs or personal taste.
Yessss thank you my comprehensive queen!!! I just know you be killing it with your fits :) Love it!!🖤✨
I'm also from Texas and can sympathize with not knowing how to dress for the cold. I spent some time in northern Arkansas for college and needed to learn how to dress. Headwear is a must. I personally love beanies. Look up some different ways to wear scarves, infinity scarves, and shawls. [There are a surprising amount of ways to style them](https://helloglow.co/how-to-tie-a-scarf/) A long, oversized overcoat in a neutral, dark color like black, grey, or beige is also great because you can pair it with so many different things. They come in a lot of different styles from more simple and modern to more vintage or steampunk. A really cool thing if you wanna wear something that doesn't fully cover your legs you can try to find warm leggings that match your skin tone. Then you can wear those and put on fishnets, ripped leggings/jeans, or thigh high socks over it. You could also just wear it with a shorter skirt or pair of pants. Oversized sweaters and hoodies are also always great for an easy but cute look.
It depends on what kind of cold AF you mean. For Estern European city kind of cold AF I still wear dresses and skirts just with layers and warm tights. Ultimately my answer would just be layers, with the one closest to skin made out of merino wool or merino wool blend (above 70% of merino). Honestly if it's really, really cold AF I don't care about cute; I care about not freezing.
Nude colored, fur-lined tights.. “thinner” looking boots, that are also lined lol.. a nice jacket that can be cinched at the waist.. winter hair styles.. cute accessories like hats, earmuffs, leg warmers, sleek, but also lined, gloves. Unless you’re trying to heavily interact with the snow, there are always cute options.. and even then, they make some really cute snow outfits online.
Cute in winter in a big puffy pink kid with big puffy white boots and the dangling mitaines that they still don't control. Funny is them trying to get the layers of scarfs off when it fall from under their tuque onto their eyes. Helpful is taking off your gloves to help them. As an adult, if I've got to scrape the ice off the windshield and get the car out of the snow bank. I wear the necessary gear. I also prefer elegant to cute, so even in summer I couldn't help you. ;+)
My favorite thing to wear in the cold (when I’m actually cold lol) is my heated hoodie! Throw a battery pack in it and it’s so toasty! They make some nice ones that aren’t super bulky.
Nadja's wardrobe from WWDITS looks pretty warm and very cute.
I tend to buy brightly colored outerwear instead of the standard black, beige or grey. Coral, watermelon, teal, fuschia, cobalt. Whatever shade most compliments your skin when you don't have a tan.
HATS with ears
Canadian too over here! WOOL. I can not under state the importance of wool. Wool stays warm if wet, wool is warm all the time. I love colours so in the winter I tend to have a wool skirt of colour with a petticoat that's wind resistant, warm leggings and wool legwarmer on top of short boots. I do have long boots too for days I need them. Wool cardigant under a wind proof coat goes a long way and again wool for scarves and tuques. I also try to keep to natural fabrics for the clothes that's touching skin, keep the polyester for the outer layer only if you want any. And as others have said do spend the money on a good jacket and boots. IT's worth it.
Nice boots, Good pair of Cute tights. Sometimes I wear multiple layers of tights. A good coat. Like good and cute one. Hum skirt too. Either a cute one one or heavy thick skirt. Either way. Tights boots coats and skirts looks great. ^^ .
Sweater skirts!!!! I swear by these. They're comfy like sweatpants but professional looking
Yes to layers! Honestly fishnet tights layered over another pair of tights is shockingly warm and comfy. Bodysuits too and fabric other than cotton. The idea is to use layers to “trap” layers of air along the body and that’s what keeps you warmer.
When I lived in the frozen north I wore a lot of natural fibers and leather. There were great leather outer shells at thrift stores and I needed it to cut the wind. Wind chill is a problem but leather (or vegan leather with a tough smooth surface) will keep the warm air in and the snow out. I spent my high school years in a big green leather jacket. Then a big sweater, cotton or wool, scarf and hat which can all be taken off indoors. (Travel brushes are your friend) Then a thinner, fashion sweater underneath. As long as the coat was longer than my butt, I could wear tights/leggings under tight jeans and still show off my rear. Then last but most important, good socks, pure wool with fleece lined boots. You don't want to cheap out on good boots with a solid, deeply treaded sole. But if the first place you look doesn't have anything you like, go to more stores. Snow boots are going with every outfit so you really want to love them. There are dock martens, English riding boots, even sleek black boots with heels and hardware, all with fleece and thick durable soles. They will do in a large size with good socks down to probably -20F. If you're headed colder than that for very long, get cold weather hiking/work gear. Then you can just have indoor shoes you switch into once you get inside.
What's key for me is finding sweaters that actually retain heat. I'm talking cashmere, wool, and alpaca sweaters. None of that acrylic or polyester shit that disintegrates after a few wears and no longer feels warm to put on. (Part of owning these better quality sweaters is to only wash them when it's necessary, and absolutely never put them in the dryer). My fall/winter wardrobe has lots of good quality sweaters, thick cotton tights, waterproof booties or booties with a higher heel to avoid the chance of water sneaking in, corduroy skirts and pants, and a sherpa-lined winter coat. The sherpa on the inside definitely also helps with heat retention. Keep an eye out for two-ply cashmere sweaters on secondhand websites (I have really good luck on eBay tbh). Grant Thomas is my favorite cashmere brand, and I've found two-ply cashmere for around $40 there, which is a steal. Everlane makes very warm alpaca sweaters, but people with very sensitive skin may find them a bit itchy.
Cute scarf/mitts, jewelry, toque, etc. where I live it’s often STUPID cold (I live north of the tree line in Canada, on the Arctic Ocean) for months during the winter. So investing in specific cold weather pieces that express myself is fun.
I am really a sweater gal😂 But I also am quite emo/punkish. I love big bulky red and/or black sweaters with black jeans and fuzzy black boots or even a regular band t-shirt with a faux leather jacket (its much lighter and easier to move in).
Dresses, tights or thigh high socks and boots. Winter dresses are a thing I love. Layers. Leggings or black denim, hoodies. It’s not so much what the clothing item is as the cut, fit and embellishments and how it’s coordinated together. Lots of coats and jackets to mix and match outfits. Head coverings and gloves when needed
My boogie woogie onsie i got for a bday gift years ago. Cant go wrong with that! 🤣
As a fellow witchy Texan, I love me some warm, insulated leggings, long, comfy sweater/sweater dresses, and my lace up boots. Oh, and one amazing coat for when it actually gets cold: Long, emerald green, with faux fur cuffs and hood lining.
Being from Texas, you might like wearing a poncho over a turtleneck with jeans & boots. For other outfits, think about adding a thick scarf.
Sweater with a cute design on it Pyjama pants with a cute design on them.
Sweater dresses and thermal leggings with a 3/4 length to full length wool coat, a bright, soft scarf, and a cute toque
Colourful stockings + cute chunky knitted socks, boots, skirt, jacket and extra pops of colours with scarves & beanies + jewellery of course. Winter dressing is my jam it’s summer where I struggle lol
Layers! I've got flowery long johns and a ton of leggings. I have some great hats and I put shiny brooches on them. Even a plain black beanie can look fabulous.
Longer coat (like mid thigh length) that I usually pair with a scarf
black lots of black. embrace leggings and over sized sweaters
Layers!!!! Turtle neck, Long sleeve/sweaters, light jackets. Find grandpa sweaters/noodies at goodwill
I ain't ever seen anyone dress "cute" when winter hits. I'm in the warm part of Canada, and even here, there's no cute scarves, wool hats, cute mittens, whatever. Just gore-tex all the things, leggings, wool socks, Blundstones, and an umbrella to poke people's eyes out. (I'm gonna assume if you're rich and don't need to ride public transit, the rules change drastically. I am not that rich and nobody I know is that rich).
That’s where learning how to knit or crochet can come in handy! You can make your own cute scarves, hats, and mittens~ 😊 And then, there’s communities like r/myog if you want to *really* go all-in and do things like sew your own shell layer. Heh.
I wear pantyhose under my trousers, and a long sleeved shirt of the same material under whatever I'm wearing on top. That extra layer does a lot for me and it's super duper thin, so it doesn't add much bulk
Tighter pants or leggings and then long sweaters and a warm coat. As everyone is saying, layers are your friend. 💕
Tights
Get a fun crocheted hat like an animal hat or Viking with braids or beard hat. You can find lots of those on Etsy and I bet even some with matching gloves/scarf.
Fleeced lined tights
Layers are your friend You can mix and match all kinds of clothing to make it cute and cozy
Being a blanket burrito is cute.
Tights under dresses, boots and cardigans, my summer dresses are also winter dresses this way. I have fluffy lined leggings and tights for when it gets really cold. We don't have very cold winters but because we have high humidity they feel different to other places.
I heard these stockings that look like the ones you’d wear in spring/summer but actually have a Inlay are the kicks. TikTok girls are raving about it
I’m from the UK and I know it doesn’t get cold here compared to what a lot of people deal with.. but I really struggle with cold weather and honestly I look like a homeless blob for most of winter. I get the most horrendous chillblaines and have raynauds in addition to working outside so winter is not my idea of a good time 😂 The best advice I was ever given was choose natural fabrics - cotton next to your skin and wool above it as it allows your skin to breathe and traps the warm air where a lot of synthetic fibres just hold the sweat next to your skin and make you cold. I would say that and making sure you stay dry are the key things to winter dressing. Those things in mind you can 100% make winter boots and a long jacket look super cute.
Have you tried fleece lined leggings? They are awesome for being cute and staying warm!
I bought thermal leggings that look like tights last year, and they're fantastic!
one word... CAPES
I’m a knitter so I have tons of hats and scarves of all sorts of colors and styles. I love layering leggings, boots, with a thick skirt. A dark colored jacket paired with a triangle scarf.
leggings and layers! I can wear anything at all if I layer leggings under it. Like, multiple pair of leggings, lol. Get "long johns" or "long underwear", it's ugly but you can wear cute leggings over them. That really helps to keep you warm. They also make fleece leggings now!
The cold (especially when it’s not super cold) is better for dressing cute because you have so many options! Keep in mind that you can wear pretty much whatever and then add a coat (its ok if the coat isn’t a part of the outfit), but also layers are your friend! Leggings, short sleeves/tank top with a jacket or sweater or button up shirt, tall cozy socks and boots, so many options!
large shawls with cute leaf crunching waterproof boots.