What do you wear to work in cold weather?

Cold weather can present challenges when getting dressed for work in the morning. Choosing the right clothing is essential to staying warm and comfortable throughout the workday when temperatures drop. This article will provide tips on how to dress professionally and practically for the office when working in cold weather climates.

What to Look for in Cold Weather Work Outfits

The main consideration when dressing for cold office environments is looking for pieces that will keep you warm but not hinder your productivity. Here are some key things to look for:

• Warm yet professional fabrics – Wool, cashmere, corduroy, tweed and knit fabrics tend to provide more insulation than cotton or polyester blends.
• Multiple layers – Base layers, mid layers and outer layers work together to trap heat while allowing flexibility.
• Thick yet structured outerwear – Parkas, wool coats, down jackets with shape provide warmth without looking sloppy.
• Natural fibers – Wool, cotton, silk and cashmere tend to perform better than synthetic fibers in cold conditions.
• Flexible fits – Not too tight or too loose allows for moving comfortably while retaining heat.
• Solid construction – Well-made seams, zippers and buttons withstand cold winds better than flimsy construction.

Prioritizing warmth doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. The key is looking for cold weather workwear essentials made of insulating and durable materials yet cut in a professional silhouette.

Tops For Under Layers

Starting with the right base layers is key to maintaining core warmth. Here are some top options:

Long Sleeve Crewneck Tops

Fitted long sleeve tops in merino wool, silk or lightweight thermals work well as base layers under work shirts and sweaters. Look for snug fits that sit close to the skin without constricting.

Turtlenecks

Turtleneck base layers offer additional protection for the neck area. Try looking for merino wool or cashmere turtlenecks for optimal warmth without bulk. Wear under button-downs or sweaters.

Thermal Under T-Shirts

Affordable long john style tops offer an easy layering option. Opt for thermal knit tops with long sleeves to wear under dress shirts.

Mock Neck Tops

Mock neck base layers deliver extra coverage around the neckline while still fitting smoothly under collared work shirts.

Bottoms for Base Layers

It’s not just about the top half – having the right leg coverage also contributes to overall warmth. Options include:

Thermal Underwear

Long john style thermal underwear provides insulation under trousers. Look for wool or silk thermals for best cold weather performance.

Fleece-Lined Tights

Opaque fleece-lined tights and leggings transform dresses and skirts into cold weather appropriate attire. Opt for thicker footless tights to allow room for socks.

Long Underwear

Full-length bottoms made from merino wool or silk help retain heat in extreme cold. Opt for fitted styles to layer discreetly under pants.

Knee Highs

Extend coverage with soft wool or cashmere blend knee high socks. Layer under trousers or boots for additional warming support.

Layering Tops For Warmth Without Bulk

The mid layers of your cold weather work outfit provide pivotal insulation between base layers and outerwear. Go for lightweight yet warm options such as:

Cashmere Sweaters

A cashmere sweater offers covetable softness with effective warmth. Choose a crewneck, V-neck or cardigan style in a gauge that fits neatly under blazers.

Merino Wool Sweaters

Temperature regulating merino wool makes an excellent mid layer choice. Look for a refined cut sweater that provides warmth without excess bulk.

Fleece Sweatshirts

A fleece quarter zip pullover adds an approachable layer ideal for more casual offices. Seek brushed fleece for enhanced softness and warmth.

Flannel Shirts

A tailored flannel button-down delivers a timeless layering option. Style under crewneck sweaters or cardigans.

Chambray Shirts

Lightweight chambray button-downs work year-round and layer smoothly under blazers or sweaters.

Outer Layer Tops For Cold Weather

The outermost top layer shields you from the elements while pulling your whole look together. Smart choices include:

Wool Blazers

A wool blazer combining nipped-in tailoring with cozy warmth makes an office style staple. Opt for wool flannel for added insulation.

Down Jackets

In more casual offices, a sleek down puffer layered over a sweater and collared shirt offers toasty warmth. Look for water resistant outer shells.

Fur/Faux Fur Vests

For a stylish accent, top your outfit with a fur or faux fur gilet vest over your blazer or sweater. This adds warmth without restricting movement.

Leather/Faux Leather Jackets

Sleek leather jackets work for creative industry offices layered over turtlenecks or knits. Seek a wool blend interior for extra warmth.

Oversize Wool Coats

An oversized wool coat makes a fashion-forward statement and shields you from the cold. Layer over suits or separates.

Bottoms for Warmth

Warm insulated pants are just as crucial as your top layers. Look for these cozy bottom options:

Wool Dress Pants

Premium wool dress trousers offer unparalleled warmth paired with polish. Look for wool flannel, tropical wool or sturdy herringbone weaves.

Corduroy Pants

Corduroy brings texture and warmth to any cold weather ensemble. Opt for a wide wale cord in a professional dark hue.

Fleece Lined Leggings

Thick fleece-lined leggings transform skirts and dresses into cold weather friendly fare. Go for opaque black for the office.

Cashmere Lined Pants

Luxurious cashmere lining elevates trousers, jeans or leggings into supremely warm bottoms fit for facing the frostiest temps.

Thermal Lined Pants

Pants lined with insulating thermal material provides affordable cold weather coverage. Look for flexible quilted lining.

Thinsulate Lined Jeans

For more casual offices, jeans insulated with thin yet effective Thinsulate retain heat while looking polished.

Tights & Socks for Layering

Don’t forget tights and socks, which protect feet and legs with insulating coverage:

Cable Knit Tights

Cable knit tights in wool or wool blends add textured warmth under pants, dresses and skirts.

Fleece Lined Tights

Plush fleece lining turns standard tights into cold weather powerhouses able to withstand freezing temps.

Merino Wool Socks

Moisture-wicking merino wool socks help regulate temperature while resisting odor. Look for mid-calf or knee-high lengths.

Shearling Lined Boots

Pull-on shearling lined boots bring the warming comfort of slippers to winter footwear. Look for durable leather.

Cashmere Lined Socks

For the ultimate in cozy luxury, treat your feet to cashmere lined wool dress socks to layer under pants and boots.

Cold Weather Shoes For Work

Choosing shoes designed to deliver traction, insulation and style is key to making it through winter workdays. Consider these options:

Waterproof Chelsea Boots

Sleek waterproof Chelsea boots in leather or suede flatter pants and dresses while keeping feet dry. Seek gripped rubber soles.

Lace Up Ankle Boots

Stylish lace up ankle boots work well with trousers or skirts. Look for leather or suede styles lined with shearling or wool.

Loafers

Classic leather loafers offer slip-on ease with sleek style. Opt for lug soles and wool lining for warmth.

Oxfords

Lace-up oxfords in leather provide timeless polish. Pair them with wool socks and traction soles.

Knee High Boots

For extra leg coverage, pair dresses and skirts with stylish knee or over-the-knee boots. Seek block heels for stability.

Accessories For Additional Warmth

The finishing accessories complete cold weather work outfits with both style and warmth:

Hats

A wool fedora, felt wide-brim hat, faux fur ushanka or ribbed beanie retain heat while making a fashion statement.

Scarves

Silk, wool, cashmere and pashmina scarves lend additional neck coverage. Look for oversize shapes to envelop neck and chest areas.

Gloves

Leather, wool and cashmere lined gloves protect fingers from whipping winds and cold. Seek touchscreen compatible styles.

Blanket Scarf

Oversized blanket scarves not only circle the neck with soft warmth but also drape around shoulders like an impromptu shawl.

Earmuffs

Fuzzy earmuffs cover ears in plush comfort to prevent windburn. Keep a spare set at the office.

How to Mix And Match Cold Weather Outfits

Now that you know the essential cold weather staples, it’s time to put together outfits. Here are some tips on mixing and matching components for warmth and style:

• Start with fitted base layers on bottom and top to retain heat.
• Build outward with mid-layers like flannel, sweaters or fleece.
• Add an insulating outer layer like a wool coat or down puffer.
• Bottom layers like wool pants, corduroys or leggings seal in warmth.
• Incorporate stylish winter boots or wool-lined loafers.
• Finish with accessories like scarves, gloves and hats as needed.
• Aim for clean lines and streamlined silhouettes for a polished effect.
• Allow full range of motion with layers that are fitted but not tight.
• Mix textures like wool, cashmere, flannel and leather for visual interest.
• Pair thick fabrics with structured outerwear to avoid looking bulky.

With the right balance of stylish insulation and cold-combating coverage, it’s easy to look professional and stay warm no matter how frosty the office gets.

Sample Outfit Combinations For Work In Cold Weather

Here are some example outfits that utilize the layering techniques and cold weather pieces discussed:

Outfit 1:

• Merino wool long underwear base layer
• Black turtleneck sweater
• Herringbone wool trousers
• Wool blazer
• Wool overcoat
• Leather oxfords
• Cashmere scarf and leather gloves

Outfit 2:

• Silk long sleeve tee
• Chambray button-down shirt
• Charcoal wool sweater
• Wool flare skirt
• Cable knit tights
• Suede ankle boots
• Felt fedora and shearling gloves

Outfit 3:

• Mock neck thermals top
• Plaid flannel button-down
• Shawl cardigan sweater
• Wool trousers
• Chelsea boots
• Wool peacoat
• Cashmere scarf and beanie

Mixing and matching these cold weather pieces allows you to stay warm while maintaining a professional appearance.

Conclusion

Dressing for cold office environments requires considering fit, fabric, construction and layering techniques. Seeking out pieces specifically designed to retain warmth like wool coats, heavy knits, insulated boots and cashmere-lined accessories ensures you look polished while combating frigid temps. With the proper insulation and coverage, you can conquer the cold professionally in style.