Yes, the days are getting longer. Yes, the sun is growing bolder. Yes, the mercury is creeping a little higher each day. But no, winter is not over. Far from it. Two solid months of cold still lie ahead, and casting a clout is entirely out of the question.
In today’s article, we explore the subtle art of choosing your winter wardrobe to see you through this final cold stretch in style.
The ABCs of a solid winter armour
Garments offer formidable protection against the elements, provided you wear them wisely. The rules differ whether you are braving heat, cold, wind or rain; and we will run through the key considerations for winter: layering, materials and fit. Finished with a dash of styling advice, passion obliges.
Garment layering in winter
When the thermometer drops below 10°C, there are several golden rules to follow to avoid freezing.
First, protecting your extremities and exposed areas is paramount: feet, hands, ears and neck. We cannot recommend enough investing in thick socks, quality gloves, a soft beanie and a warm scarf.
Next, it is essential to favour the onion technique over the turtle approach.
In other words, multiple layers will always keep you warmer than a single bulky piece. Ideally, three to four strata are needed to maintain optimal thermal comfort. While requirements vary between the Riviera and northern France, the principle remains. A base layer, a dense jumper, a work jacket and a coat: the perfect formula to stay snug until warmer days return.
Finally, staying dry is essential, so do invest in a proper umbrella. The slightest soak can undo all your efforts, not to mention leave you with a nasty sore throat.
Materials to favour in winter
Unsurprisingly, wool reigns supreme as the winter material of choice. A living fibre renowned for its thermoregulating properties, wool is an exceptional ally when braving the elements. Warm, breathable, cosy and soft, it delivers everything we long for from October to April.
However, other factors come into play to ensure proper thermal performance; chief among them are the weave or knit structure and the fabric weight. Even if it is 100% wool, a garment will not protect you if it is light and loosely knit, which is why it is best to favour tight weaves and substantial weights (over 275 gsm for a jumper, over 350 gsm for a coat). These figures are indicative, but in truth, you will easily feel whether a piece you like is thick and insulating enough to brave the bitter cold.
In addition, and still among the finest cold-weather fabrics, we cannot overlook cotton corduroy. A true 70s icon, this wonderfully textured fabric has made a strong comeback in recent seasons, much to the delight of textile aficionados. Soft, rich and delightfully textural, it is an outstanding winter option—provided you opt for sufficiently wide wales. Take our word for it: don't hesitate.
As usual, the key is to rely on natural materials and keep a healthy distance from polyester, polyamide, elastane and other synthetics that make you sweat rather than keep you warm. Not to mention their environmental impact and the health concerns they bring, naturally.
The importance of fit in winter
At Hast, we advocate the art of crescendo when it comes to silhouette. All the more so in winter. The principle is simple: start with closer-fitting pieces and transition to slightly roomier cuts with each added layer.
This approach allows you to trap body heat with the base layer and build a well-considered Russian doll effect with subsequent layers, without compromising on comfort and ease of movement. For instance, you could opt for a fitted T-shirt as layer 1, a slim-fit wool roll neck as layer 2, a straight cardigan or an overshirt as layer 3, and a roomier duffle coat to round it all off. Layering is strength, as the saying goes.
One last detail
This last point might seem minor, but it is anything but: never underestimate the power of colour in winter. When dusk falls around 5:30 pm and you are juggling colds, fever and sore throats, morale can easily dip. Fortunately, colour has the ability to bring a touch of cheer to these grey months—which is far from insignificant. Burgundy, green, plum, red, sage: it really takes very little to lift your spirits.
A final word
In short, winter can be thoroughly enjoyable, provided you dress well for it. By “well-dressed”, we mean impeccably styled, but first and foremost, suitably dressed. Layer quality pieces—crafted from natural materials—with a harmonious palette and a coherent silhouette, and you will navigate the cold with effortless elegance.
On that note, we wish you a pleasant and well-dressed end to winter.
Warmest regards.