Keeping up Appearances During the Winter Months: What You Need to Know

Keeping up Appearances During the Winter Months: What You Need to Know

As the winter creeps in, and the weather gets cooler, we’re all starting to bundle up and pack away the summer clothing. It can be easy to fall into a habit of simply wearing whatever keeps you warm, but there’s no reason to neglect your sense of style during the winter. We’ve put together some great tips to help you take control of your personal grooming and style this season.


Practical Winter Styling Tips

There’s no need to sacrifice style during the colder months. While it’s easy to just bundle up without much thought, layering your clothing with purpose can allow you to create a sharp, sophisticated look. Wearing good quality layers can also give you a more comfortable and practical outfit. Adding a quality thermal top to your closet is a winter staple. Pairing this top  with a shirt or sweater over it is a great way to stay warm under a stylish look. Throwing a heavy winter coat over a t-shirt can seem like a good idea, until you go someplace where they keep the thermostat turned way down leaving you shivering, and feeling uncomfortable. Layering high-quality, weather-appropriate clothing is your best bet for looking and feeling your best.  


Speaking of comfort, don’t neglect your footwear. Those light and airy summer shoes might look sharp, but they’re not built for the cold, and if you live in a snowy area you’ll destroy them quickly. Get yourself something designed for the weather. If you’re wearing suede or leather, waterproofing your shoes is an easy process that will pay for itself many times over. One way to quickly tell if your shoes are durable and up to the task of adverse conditions is to look at the way they’re constructed. Some of the best footwear is made using what’s called a Goodyear Welt. This is a stitched piece of leather or rubber that runs around the entire shoe just above the sole. A lot of cheaper shoes will try to mimic the Goodyear Welt, but look for consistent, even stitching, and you shouldn’t see any signs of glue or adhesives around the welt.  Once you’ve seen the difference, it becomes easy to spot. 

Useful and Stylish Accessories

Once you’ve got the essentials covered, why not round out your look with some stylish and practical accessories? A nice scarf or neck warmer can add a dash of color and sophistication to your look while keeping the wind off your neck. A quality pair of socks will be warm and comfortable, and can add a subtle splash of style to your outfit. It’s also a good idea to look for tried and tested winter materials like merino wool or cashmere. Pure wool is very warm, but many people find it itchy and irritating, and it isn’t very breathable. While some of these are staples of winter wear, many accessories work year round, like an attractive minimalist watch or a leather belt. Throw a nice knit hat in the mix, and you’re well on your way to great winter fashion! 

Helpful Cold Weather Grooming Advice

Believe it or not, your grooming needs change with the seasons! Cold temperatures can dry out your skin and make your hair brittle and prone to damage. This can be exacerbated by the need to keep your head warm with thick hats and hoods, which don’t do your hair any favors. Your best bet is to use good, high-quality products, like paraben-free shampoo and conditioner. You may find that the products you use during the warmer months don’t work as well when it’s dry and cold. Feel free to experiment until you find something that works for you. 

 

The air is drier during the winter both inside and out. While you can’t change the weather, you can make your home healthier, and a small humidifier can be a great tool to help make your home a healthier environment for your hair and skin. Similarly, If you’re one of the many people that get dry skin during the winter, a good moisturizer can make a world of difference. You might also want to consider growing your hair out a little. You don’t want to go too long, as it can be hard to keep in check during rain, snow, and wind. A nice mid-length textured cut can be a great way to achieve a style that compliments your winter clothing and still looks good after an extended period out in the elements. Another thing to consider is the stress that winter brings. With the holidays and the doldrums that follow, many people experience high levels of stress during this time of year. This can actually lead to thinning hair and even hair loss in some circumstances. Many times this is seasonal and temporary, but if it persists, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about a hair loss solution like minoxidil. These products can do a great job of stopping, and in some cases even reversing hair loss. Your skin and hair require more work during the winter, so do yourself a favor and take charge of your style and grooming.  

 

It can be difficult to maintain your style during the winter, and many of us default to looking a little disheveled. The fact is though, first impressions are important no matter the weather, and dressing for success all year round is a great way to boost your self-confidence and leave a lasting impression on people. Don’t let the cold win, take charge of your style this year!  

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