How to stay Stylish in Sub Zero Temperatures

So this week in Toronto it was -31 with the wind chill. As a multi-generational Canadian I like to think I am pretty immune to the cold but it was COLD. The kind of cold where all sense of style is thrown out the window in favour of whatever warm clothing we have on hand.

But you know what is stylish? Dressing for the weather.

I see all sorts of cute outfits where there is tons of snow in the background, and whomever the girl in the picture is must be freezing. Still she is wearing perfect pumps with no socks. And sure the outfit is cute. And I probably have done this from time to time (I swear it wasn’t in -30 weather) but it isn’t realistic.

So how do you dress to stay stylish in sub zero weather? I have 5 tips to stay warm but still look put together.

coat/gloves/hat/scarf

1. Wear an Over-sized Boyfriend Style Coat

While I have seen it done, parkas by an large aren’t the most stylish coats. Yes certain brands are popular and they are super warm, but you can wear a wool coat and be warm in cold temperatures. Plus the over-sized shape with allow for layers underneath which a fit & flare won’t allow and the length will keep your legs warm unlike a cropped Canada Goose.

2. Make sure to put on ALL your winter accessories.

I don’t really feel sorry for those of you who are complaining about the cold but can’t put on gloves or a hat. I mean beanies are cool right? And over-sized scarves? Well they keep you warm. And dressing sensibly is super stylish. Really it is. Even the cool kids zip up their coats when it is minus 30.

If you are wearing a statement coat like the one above you might want to take it easy on the accessories print and colour wise, but they don’t all have to match, but they do need to go in order to gain style points. If you are going to do pattern, make sure you pick up the colour of the coat in the pattern to ensure that it works together.

3. Up grade your gloves to accommodate Tech

You know what totally sucks when it is cold out? Taking off your gloves to answer the phone, or write a text. But there are all sorts of fantastic tech gloves on the market right now! Loving Canada’s Quill & Tine versions and those Echo ones above from Eluxe. Or you can always go old school with fingerless gloves. But if there is a frostbite warning I would prefer to be covered up wouldn’t you?

boots/socks/fleece/fur trapper hat

4. Layer, Layer, Layer

If you leave your warmth totally up to your outer layers you might still end up being cold.

If you find that your wool coat is letting the winds through layer under a down vest, polar fleece jacket or even leather to break the wind. Not sure about leather? Why do you think all those hard core bikers are decked out leather when out on their bikes?

Base layers like long underwear or a tank under your blouse will keep you warm without adding alot of bulk. Don’t have long johns? Wool stockings or opaque tights will work the same for a city commute.

What about your hat and mitts? I find that knits can let the wind through. So don’t be afraid of layering a thin fleece pair under your knits for extra warmth.

Skip the circle scarves if they are drapey on days like this. I find most versions don’t allow you enough control to keep your neck and face warm. Personally I prefer my old school scarves to wrap tightly.

Keep your feet warm by adding boot socks. Whether you layer them over your tights or jeans & let the pattern show, or need the extra layer to convert your hunters to winter boots, do whatever you can to keep your feet warm. Which leads me to my last tip.

5. Wear Winter Boots

Winter can bring all sorts of treacherous walking scenarios. Extreme cold can bring ice. It isn’t exactly the time for pumps or teetering heels. Save them for the office.

Depending on how much walking through slush and ice you need to do to get where you need to go you could go with anything from Chelsea boots to something shearling lined. Rubber soles are best for winter to ensure traction in slippery situations.

And yes I get that real winter boots generally don’t look good with trousers but you could go with a sleek black boot instead, just buy them so that they can accommodate an extra sock. Also make sure to treat them for the elements.

Honorary Mention – Incorporate Fur

There is a reason why you see so many women and men for that manner wearing fur at the base of Mt. Tremblant. I have experienced my coldest days there where the windchill was -60 at the top of the mountain. A vest, coat or hat in fur, faux or real, will be super warm and add some flare to your look.

What are your tricks for surviving the severe cold in style?