7 Tips for keeping warm with style - when outside

It's too long since I've posted - I am aiming to add a post each week from now on!

The cold weather has caught many of us by surprise this winter but that is no excuse lacking style when we are out and about.

1.Head : A staggering amount of heat (up to 30% has been quoted) is lost through our head; it makes sense to wear a hat. A beret is much more stylish than a beanie or similar pull on -try both on and look in a mirror.

2. Body: When it is very cold there is nothing better than a fleece below an outer windproof & waterproof layer. Both of these can now be found in quite stylish colours such as purple. When this is just too casual a coat is the answer. If purchasing a coat look carefully at the content label for the type and weight of the fibre - some will not be very warm. Do think carefully about the colour and style, you won't wear a coat that you don't like. It could be an expensive mistake.
However, the choice of coats in the shops is small- I presume that these have not been popular purchases in the past few years! If you can sew then making your own might be a sensible alternative. There are some 'easy' patterns available ( see Vogue) and you can chose your own material. Wool is an excellent choice for it's insulating properties.


3. Hands: keeping your hands warm is essential if you want to be comfortable in the cold. Sheepskin mittens are great for extreme conditions: coloured leather gloves are more stylish and likely also to gain in the warmth stakes over knitted ones that tend to let in the wind - unless of course they are lined.

4.Feet: Keeping these warm will enable you to feel more comfortable overall. Leather boots are more stylish than sheepskin ones which can seriously change the proportions of your body! Wearing socks inside will help to keep your feet even warmer. This is something you could think about next time you buy a pair – take a pair of socks with you.

5. Neck: A scarf that is both warm and stylish is likely to be woven. Again looking for one with a high wool content will ensure warmth. Failing that one that is brushed will also trap air. Do look in a mirror when trying on a scarf - check it ticks all the boxes - colour good for you as it will be so near you face, doesn't add too much bulk to the wrong area if you have it tucked in your coat and also attracts attention where you want it.

6. Bag: You might need to carry a bigger one to carry emergency rations, spare shoes etc but it can should still complement your overall look and be carried with style. There is a big range of bags available to suit all budgets.

7.You: Lastly but just as importantly is you, your overall image depends to a great extent on how you feel about yourself which is portrayed by your body language and confidence. So, if despite the cold weather you are warm and know you have style this will show in you face. It helps considerable if you are able to smile even if the weather is challenging.

Look out for my next post will give tips on how to be stylish when inside!
If you need more advice in any of the areas mentioned above then take a look at my web site to see how I can help: www.janetmajorimage.co.uk