7 tips for keeping warm and stylish when inside, at work or home

The key to all these tips is in maintaining a layer of insulating air around your skin.

1. Layers: The more layers of clothes you have the more layers of air you have. Generally it is better to do several layers than just one thicker layer. This is true in terms of warmth as well as looks. Try and ensure that the outer layer is smooth. One way is to work out what the outer layer is going to be then work out how many and what the invisible sub layers could be. It is smarter to have several invisible layers than several visible ones.

2. Silk: Silk is incredibly insulating as a fibre and is chosen by polar explorers over synthetic fibres. It is also light to wear, 'breathes' and can keep you warm even as a thin item. A long sleeved top even under a skinny polo neck can make such a difference and not be at all noticeable.

3. Opaque tights: Being of a higher denier than thinner ones, they are going to be significantly warmer. A block of colour on the legs can look very striking and when taken together with the skirt and shoe colour can appear to elongate or shorten the leg! So make sure you know how to make opaque tights work for you.

4. Warm fibres: Some fibres have greater insulating properties than others. Cashmere and wool would be at the top of the list with acrylic lower down when comparing similar construction. Get into the habit of looking at labels if you are looking for a jumper that will not only look good but also keep you warm.

5. Neck: Many people find that if they are warm at the neck then they feel warm. A low or loose neck allows cold air to circulate. A polo neck is ideal and is often smarter than a crew neck. Rather than just folding it down try more creative ways – have a go at ruching, adding a necklace or a brooch. If you can't do a polo neck, then how about a cowl or a scarf?

6. Texture: The more texture the more air is trapped, so a ribbed jumper will be always be warmer than a plain one - all other things being equal. Do watch how much texture you have and where you wear it as texture can so easily widen and enlarge.

7. You: It's easy to think warmth not style when it is really cold. It is possible to be both warm and stylish. It's probably more important than ever to allow a few extra minutes to check the overall look in the mirror and do any minor adjusting necessary. Above all smile and be happy, that cheers people up and makes everyone feel better. For more advice on making the most of your image look at my website: www.janetmajorimage.co.uk