When Christmas approaches, it’s time to break out the winter wardrobe. There’s a fine line with winter fashion and it’s easy to get it wrong. Understandably, most people will be more worried about keeping warm than looking good! However, you can do both. We’re here to teach you how. Follow these tips and you’ll still be turning heads, even in the snow.

When the cold sets in, our initial reaction is to bulk up. We want to break out the big, thick puffer jackets and get the waterproof trousers out. We’re here to tell you that, unfortunately, you’re doing it all wrong. The trick to looking good this winter is keeping your body’s proportions in tact. Don’t bulk out. Instead, use carefully selected clothes and fabrics to keep you warm. You don’t have to sacrifice fashion for warmth. There are clothes out there that will do both. It’s time to find them.

Layer up

This is your golden rule. Memorise it. Repeat it while you sleep. Whatever it takes so that it stays in your mind. Instead of throwing on a thick, chunky jumper and a puffer jacket, go for three or four thinner layers. Layers are proven to keep the heat in better. There is more trapped air kept within them which provides extra insulation. So, start with a vest or a thermal undershirt. They are designed specifically to trap heat. Then you can still wear your favourite T shirt from RagRetail.com. Under your trousers, don’t be scared to wear some long johns or thermals. They’ll keep you warm and you can stick to your favourite trousers on top.

Jacket

Don’t even touch that big chunky jacket. Now that you’ve got your layers, the heat is sealed in. You don’t need something big to stay warm. Remember, the trick in winter is to retain your body’s natural proportions. Any oversized jackets will look huge and silly. Find a fitted jacket that matches your shape. Something like a trench coat is a timeless classic and will keep your figure. A leather jacket will do the same thing. Plus, leather is much more hardened to the elements than most other fibres. If you are desperate for the bulk, try a gillet instead of a jacket. The armless top will still show off the arms underneath and won’t drown you in fabric.

Accessories

We’re so close, don’t ruin it with a silly accessory! With hats, stick with the classics. That means fedoras, newsboy hats or the simple ski beanie. Novelty hats are not your answer here. Spend a little money on a classic scarf. Match the patterns to your jacket and learn how to tie it correctly. Finally, your shoes should be safe and grippy, but not too bulky. Find a fashionable boot.

With all this in mind, you should be all set to brave the elements. Remember, don’t drown your body in oversized clothes. You might think that bulk is the answer to the cold but you’re wrong. Stick to lots of thin layers and keep your body size. Try to avoid any silly hats and jumpers and stick to the classic accessories.

Image via flickr