The Big Chill
From weather-proof outerwear to sumptuous knits and accessories, consider MR PORTER the one-stop luxury destination for everything you need to stay warm and stylish this winter
Holiday parties, ski breaks, long walks in a winter wonderland: there’s a lot to love about wintertime, if you know how to dress for it. And while the most formidable season can be tricky even for true fashion devotees, the good news is that building your perfect hibernal wardrobe requires no special skill – only a bit of strategy and the right high-quality cold-weather essentials.
An effective winter outfit starts with a solid foundation. When it comes to footwear at this notoriously wet, chilly time of year, your trusty sneakers just won’t cut it. Your best bet is a sturdy, weather-proof boot. Think: thick, no-slip rubber soles and a water-resistant upper that covers the ankle and accommodates a warm, chunky sock. Though this may sound like a formula for a heavy-duty clunker of a shoe, sleek winter boot designs abound – so there’s really no need to sacrifice style for comfort.
Between the bone-chilling winds outside, the office heated by your perpetually cold colleague, the swampy after-work bar and your friends’ draughty old flat, you never know what temperature you’re going to get at any point on a winter’s day. That’s why the ‘onion principle’ is so important this season. Ensure optimal comfort wherever you are by layering up with a T-shirt in a natural, breathable fabric, followed by a cosy knit jumper in a flattering cut and luxurious feel, topped off with proper outerwear, whether a smart wool coat or an all-weather down jacket. Facing the elements never looked so good.
In winter, accessories aren’t just eye candy – they can mean the difference between toasty extremities and chattering teeth. But they can be eye candy, too. Don’t leave the house without a pair of gloves (for the frostiest of days, we like a leather glove with a soft insulating lining, like fleece), a scarf (there’s nothing like cashmere for warmth and sophistication) and a hat (you can never go wrong with a classic beanie).
Don’t forget: when the sun makes itself rare, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that our peepers still need protection. Finish off the look with a pair of shades that will up your UV factor along with your style quotient.
Shop MR PORTER for this winter’s most luxurious must-haves.
