Having the right wardrobe for winter can be a tricky task. You need far more clothes than usual, items that can protect you against snow, rain, high winds, or a combination of all three, but they still need to be comfortable.
This process becomes even more difficult if you are on a budget; however, there are ways to afford men’s Superdry jackets, nice boots, or high-end accessories on a budget.
What to Remember
The first thing you need to remember is what kind of weather you are dressing for. There is no need to go out and buy a thick winter coat if the coldest you are getting is 15-20 degrees Celsius, but a jersey and a pair of jeans won’t cut it if it is snowing.
While this may sound obvious, understanding the weather you are dressing for will help you narrow down what you do and don’t need.
Layers
Dressing for Winter is all about layers. You won’t need the thickest, or most expensive, coat or jersey to stay warm if you have the proper layers on. This can save you a ton of money as the clothing you layer with can be cheap, and you will be able to afford multiples.
Long-sleeve t-shirts, regular t-shirts, vests, etc., are all cheap, can be bought in bulk, and will keep you warm. You only need to remember not to get anything too tight or loose, as this will cause you to sweat or not retain the warmth.
Splurge on a Coat
While splurging is the opposite of staying on a budget, the best budget choice is to buy one coat. Find a well-made and warm coat; the goal is to find something you won’t need to replace in a season or two, thus saving you money in the long run.
Shop Out of Season
Another great way to save money is to find and buy winter clothing out of season. After winter is usually one of the best times as stores will want to clear stock, and you will be able to find great deals on almost everything.
This would also be a great time to stock up on bulk purchases of basics, as there is less demand, and all the clothing, colours, and sizes will be far easier to find.
Choose the Right Material
Buying clothing from the right materials is a must when creating winter outfits. Depending on the weather you experience, you will most likely want waterproof outer layers, with the interior being something cosy such as wool.
Choosing comfortable and breathable materials for your inner layers will ensure you don’t get too hot, causing you to sweat and inevitably feel colder. These materials also ensure your layers aren’t too heavy and you don’t feel weighed down.
Head & Hands
When styling and creating winter outfits, people often forget the importance of hand and head protection. Keeping your hands warm with a pair of gloves will prevent dry and cracked skin, ensure they stay comfortable and “usable”, and stop heat from escaping.
When we are cold, a lot of heat escapes through our heads and feet; therefore, putting a beanie on will trap that heat and make far more of a difference than you think. Before you head outside, always remember a beanie or a hat.
Thermals
Investing in a good set of thermals is the same as buying a great coat. Thermals keep your core, blood, and the rest of your body warm. Thermals also allow you to cut your winter wardrobe down a bit.
If you have thermals, you do not need to purchase bags full of underlayers; therefore, you can even cut your spending budget further.
Scarves
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a scarf. Not only do they add a touch of class and pizazz to an outfit, but they can also be incredibly functional. A scarf is used to protect your neck, but it can also be used to protect your chest if you have an open coat or jacket.
