How to Dress Warmly for your Next Winter Getaway

I’m more of a warm-weather getaway kinda gal. In winter you’ll find me planning trips to St. Maarten, St. Lucia (travel guide to come!) or Florida. But I’ve done my fair share of cold-weather travel as well. I’ve been to London in November and January, Quebec City in December and February, and even Iceland in January! With these trips I’ve learned how to dress to protect myself from the chill while looking stylish at the same time. Here is how to dress warmly for your next winter getaway. 

Dress in Layers

Let’s start with your base layer – you should be wearing one if you’re traveling somewhere particularly cold. Companies like L.L. Bean and Uniqlo both have some great thermal base layer options. I really love Uniqlo’s thermal turtleneck to layer beneath an oversized sweater.

Invest in the Best

It can be so tempting to buy a cheap puffy coat. Don’t! It’s full of fluff that will not keep you warm. Invest in a good down or down alternative coat with a hood. They are some great waist-length options but I tend to go with at least ¾ length because that keeps you the warmest. I love my ¾ length L.L. Bean down coat. It’s the warmest one I’ve ever owned and though I’ve worn it for six years now it still looks brand new!

Choose Warm Fabrics

Sweaters of wool and alpaca are always smart (though I am allergic to wool). For pants if you’re tired of wearing denim I’ve found that velvet and corduroy provide a little extra warmth. 

Faux Fur is your Friend

I do not believe in using real fur but I love faux fur. Not only can you find these coats in unique and vibrant colors and prints, they’re also warm. I particularly love my cheetah print faux fur because it’s fun and cozy. I always get so many compliments!

Choose the Right Footwear

Sorel is the best brand for warm, waterproof, fashionable boots. My favorite is the Cate the Great and the Joan of Arctic lines. But I’ve found an assortment of styles in a few brands that will keep your feet warm, dry and prevent slipping on ice and snow while still looking chic. 

Don’t Forget Accessories

Heat escapes from the top of your head so make sure you bring a hat or two. I love berets but they don’t cover the ears well so your best bet is a stocking cap with a pom pom on top or beanie that you can pull down tight. And no one likes dry, frostbitten hands so pull out those mittens and gloves. Sometimes I’ll wear a pair of tech gloves under a some fleece mittens so that I can pull them off and use my phone or camera but still have that extra layer of warmth.

It is possible to look chic and be warm on a winter getaway. Just remember that a confident attitude is always just as important as the clothes you’re wearing!