
I get contacted by all sorts of companies offering to pay me to feature their blogs on my website. I have always declined because it’s important to me that that my blogs are authentic and a true reflection of my values and beliefs. However, I received this article today from Humes Outfitters and I think that (particularly given the weather we’re currently experiencing!) you will find it helpful. I have not asked for, or received, any payment.
With Britain in the grip of an extended cold snap and a blanket of snow on the ground in many northern parts of the country, winter has well and truly arrived. And while hibernating until spring might sound tempting, many of us still need to brave the cold and face the day.
Staying warm while looking polished, however, isn’t always easy. When you’ve got an important meeting or a smart event to attend, putting together an outfit that’s both stylish and suitable for the weather can feel like a challenge.
So, what’s a fashion-forward person to do during a cold snap? To help you take on the elements without sacrificing your style, country and outdoor clothing outfitter Humes Outfitters shares some top tips.
Leave your wool coat at home (at least while it’s snowing)
We all love a wool overcoat: it’s smart, timeless, and incredibly warm. But when the snow starts falling, wool outerwear doesn’t fare too well — it absorbs moisture and can leave you soggy and cold. So, when snow is in the forecast, you’ll need something that’s both water-resistant and well-insulated.
The best coat for snowy weather is a thickly padded, waterproof winter coat — the best quality you can afford. For warmth, natural down feather filling is hard to beat, though many modern eco-friendly polyester fillings also offer excellent insulation. Ideally, your coat should also be long enough to reach your knees (or lower) to keep your legs warm and dry.
Look for designs that feature innovative cold-weather elements, such as windproof zips and elasticated storm cuffs. A faux-fur-trimmed hood is not only stylish but practical too: it catches snowflakes and keeps them out of your face. And fleece-lined pockets are a thoughtful touch for those days when you’ve forgotten your gloves but still need some extra warmth for your hands.
Be smart with base layers
With the right base layers, you can wear all kinds of smart outfits without feeling the chill. For example, a simple Oxford shirt can be made much toastier by adding a lightweight polo neck underneath.
This trick also works wonders for wearing midi skirts or dresses in the winter. Just layer thermal leggings under your dress or skirt, then add knee-high boots — no one will know the difference. For extra warmth, pop on some thick boot socks to keep your feet and calves cosy.
Want to turn a summery outfit into a winter-ready look? Simply layer a strappy dress or jumpsuit over a polo neck and thick tights or thermal underwear. If the dress has a lighter, summery print or colour, choose base layers in darker, more wintery tones — think burgundy, navy, or grey — to give it a seasonally appropriate twist.
When choosing base layers, fabric matters. Natural fibres like merino wool are perfect for layering because they’re warm yet lightweight. Plus, merino wicks moisture away from the skin, so you won’t end up sweaty or uncomfortable like you might with synthetic fabrics.
Swap wellies for winter boots
In slippery conditions, it’s tempting to reach for your trusty wellies: after all, they’re waterproof and provide decent grip. But while they’ll keep your feet dry, they’re not designed to keep you warm, making them less than ideal for trudging through the snow. Plus, wellies aren’t the smartest footwear choice, so they’re not the best option for work or more formal occasions.
When you need to stay stylish in bad weather, opt for knee-high flat boots with a durable, high-grip sole, like Fairfax & Favor’s Explorer tassel boots. These look great over skinny jeans or with a midi dress or skirt. Prefer ankle boots? Go for a Chelsea boot with a rubberised, non-slip sole. For extra warmth, consider styles like the Le Chameau Aventure Fourée, which features a shearling lining for added comfort.
Brighten up your look with a colourful knit
Winter dressing can sometimes feel a bit bland and repetitive, so brighten up those dark days by adding a colourful knit or two to your wardrobe. Scottish Fair Isle jumpers are perfect for this time of year: with their striking patterns, they’ll keep you warm while also lifting your spirits.
For the best quality, make sure to invest in a jumper that has been crafted in Scotland using real British wool.
Rachel Thomson, Managing Director advises:
“My top tip for staying warm in snowy weather? Invest in the best winter coat you can afford. You can layer up with thermals and beautiful knitwear all you like, but without a reliable, high-quality waterproof coat, your outfit will quickly get soaked.
“If you’re willing to spend some money on an investment piece from a top brand, you can absolutely find a winter coat that looks polished without sacrificing warmth or comfort. British brand Holland Cooper makes fantastic winter coats, including the ready-for-anything Carrington and Stoneleigh longline coats. A favourite of Catherine, Princess of Wales, Holland Cooper’s outerwear proves that you don’t have to sacrifice looking stylish when it’s very cold. Another winner is the Fairfax & Favor Charlotte longline coat, which comes complete with fleece-lined pockets and a faux-fur trim hood.
“When it comes to footwear, look for a winter boot that combines functionality with style. Dubarry’s Foxrock winter boots are a great investment for snowy days. With a GORE-TEX membrane and faux-fur lining, they’ll keep you warm and dry while adding a touch of après-ski chic to your look.”
About the brand
Humes Outfitters has been working hard at the detail since 1929 with handpicked collections from the best British and international country clothing brands. Humes Outfitters believes that online shoppers should experience the same care and personal touch as customers in its stores in Kelso and Alnwick, and it wants you to feel at home as it brings you comfort and style when you find yourself longing for that country state of mind. Humes Outfitters also provides other luxury services such as made-to-measure tailoring and kilt and formalwear hire.