Not every holiday event is held inside by a crackling fire. Outdoor markets, festivals, and caroling are some of my favorite ways to celebrate the season. But, outdoor venues present a unique holiday style challenge.
Staying warm can be the difference between you enjoying an outdoor event and wasting precious moments wondering if you will ever feel your extremities again. However, clothing that makes you appear like you have a tummy reminiscent of a bowl full of jelly can make you want to burn all pictures documenting those precious moments. Don’t worry. There is a way to beat the cold without looking like the big guy with the reindeer.
Here are my top three tips for dressing cozy without resembling a marshmallow:
Put on Your Longies
Great Grandpa knew what he was doing wearing long underwear. It’s a great way to stay warm without adding a lot of bulk. Thankfully, long underwear has come a long way since he buttoned on his red wool onesie.
Many brands now offer options for men and women with features such as moisture wicking material and various levels of heat retention that are lightweight enough to be undetectable under your regular clothing. That means added warmth that won’t interrupt your style.
Reach For a Wool Scarf
Lightweight and water-resistant (a good feature for outdoor events), wool scarves and shawls not only will keep you warm without interrupting your style, they can significantly boost it.
Whether you’re a woman or a man, the right wool piece can add a toasty layer to your ensemble, with the added benefit of its being easily removed if the weather becomes warmer.
Wear a Hat
After years of camping, I can state from personal experience that wearing a hat always added to my comfort in cold weather, despite the fact that scientists have debunked the myth that we lose most of our heat through our heads. Hats are a chic, distinctive way to keep the cold out.
Don’t buy into the idea that only certain people can wear hats. Everyone can. It’s just a matter of finding the hat that suits you and determining the most flattering way to wear it (usually at an angle, not just plunked straight down on your head).
There you have it: longies, wool scarves, and warm hats — my top three tips for staying toasty and fashionable this holiday season. Hot chocolate doesn’t hurt any, either.
If you have tips on how to stay warm without looking like Santa, please share them in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
Sharon Batts Style 