Winter warmup

As winter weather is upon us, Iman shares her top tips for keeping cozy using smart wardrobe choices and some other tricks.

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Every year, winter comes, and every year, it manages to catch everyone off guard like it was something no one had ever experienced before. After the first snowfall, it always seems like people have forgotten how to drive, public transport is always incredibly delayed for the first couple of days, and suddenly you need to account for the extra time that it’s going to take you to trudge through the snow; all while you try not to slip and fall over scattered patches of ice. Of course, all of this also means that you need to start preparing yourself for the cold by dressing warmer, and so it becomes time to pull out your winter wardrobe. Whether it be your first winter, or whether you’ve been facing winters (bonus points if they’ve been winters in Edmonton) for your entire life, here are some handy tips to help you get through the cold, ruthless months. 

One of the most helpful things you can do for yourself starts with the way you dress in the wintertime. Layering will become your best friend. And once you perfect the art of layering, not only will you be extra warm, but you will also look fashionable while doing it. The easiest way to do this is by throwing on a plain t-shirt underneath any sweater, sweatshirt, or hoodie, adding a quick extra layer of warmth under any outfit without looking bulky or like there’s too much going on. One of my favourite things to do when choosing my outfits is add an extra layer on top such as a cardigan, zip-up hoodie,  a flannel or something else of the sort– like a corduroy button-up. But the most important part lies in your outerwear. In the winter, your final look should always include a warm coat or jacket built to keep out the cold. A windbreaker or a hoodie most likely won’t be enough, especially as the weather gets colder. To pair with your coat or jacket, a scarf, hat, and mittens will work wonders when it comes to staying warm.

When I get ready in the mornings, I always remember the days when I was little, and how my mom used to tell me to bundle up, trying to get me to wear all these extra winter accessories to keep me warm. Laying out scarves and gloves for me to choose from, in hopes that I would just comply. I never wanted to; for some reason when you’re a kid, dressing appropriately for the weather is one of the most embarrassing things you can do. I see it carried on in my younger sisters now, but as I’ve gotten older, I can’t help but wonder why it was ever a thing to be embarrassed about. I see myself understanding my mom more and more. 

The right footwear is just as important as wearing warm clothes, and many people are guilty of not switching into winter footwear, me included. Not only does proper footwear keep you from slipping and falling (for the most part) but the right shoe can keep your feet warm as well. Also, boots can look cool! If boots aren’t your vibe, you can find sneaker-style shoes with bottoms with good grip. I’m equally as guilty of this; I like to convince myself that Doc Martens are real winter boots (I know I’m not the only one!)

There are a few other things you can do to make your life easier. These tips are super handy but not necessary. Sometimes (especially without the right footwear) you’ll find yourself somehow knee-deep in a pile of snow, and suddenly your socks are cold and soaked. Carrying around an extra pair of socks is a quick solution that will probably save your life at some point. I know it has saved mine. I also recently learned that you can buy mini hot water bottles or electric hand warmers to keep inside your pockets to avoid freezing your fingers off. But one thing I’ve finally come to terms with this winter is that mittens really do work wonders (and they look cute!). I have definitely spent too much of my life pretending they don’t work, so don’t let that be you!

Finally, the struggle nearly everyone faces in winter: how do you layer up in jackets and all that other pizzazz without looking like you’re wearing the exact same thing every day? I’ve faced this issue as well, especially because my coat goes past my knees so any attempt I make to dress differently fails, but I love my winter coat and tend not to mind that. So pro tip, get a coat you really like, I guess. But something I like to do to avoid looking the exact same is changing up my scarves and hats. I’ve got a collection of different colours at this point!


Iman

About Iman

Iman is a third-year Science, Technology and Society major in the Faculty of Arts. Born and raised in Edmonton, her current goal is to identify her true passions by trying new things. When not writing, you can find her reading, listening to music, drawing and her newfound joy — crocheting! Iman enjoys getting to know new people and meeting friends while grabbing a coffee or a bubble tea.