Essential Winter Accessories to Stay Sharp in the Cold
Despite the start of the new year, we're a long way from the sunnier days of spring still. With that in mind, it's a good time to ensure your cold-weather accessorizing is up to scratch, whether you're in need of a refresh or you've decided you simply can't make it through another blisteringly cold few weeks without finally investing in some foolproof winter warmers.
Bad weather shouldn't have to mean bad accessories — function and form can go hand in hand and give you the opportunity to elevate your winter dressing and further the expression of your style as opposed to leaving you feeling stifled by layers of fabric while you weather the elements.
These are our go-to winter accessories for men.
Hats
While the idea that most heat is lost via your head is a myth, it's certainly a part of you that remains un-swaddled more often than not. Beanie hats, like most stalwart menswear items, originated in military uniforms. Designed to keep warm in harsh conditions, a woolen hat will be more than good enough to keep you warm on commutes or blustery errand runs.
A bold statement style (ala Steve Zissou in The Life Aquatic) is great if you're going to be outside in the chill all day and want to fully embrace your beanie-wearing look. Alternatively, you might prefer something more classic and subtle if you prioritize functional headwear over head-turning styles. If something more structured is your preference, a trapper hat is a wintery cap option that brings the insulation you need for winter.
Gloves
Often the real sign of a plunge in temperature, gloves can all too often be a function-before-form kind of accessory. Whether you opt for a simple wool pair or go in on a leather pair that can age with each season you keep them, gloves can be essential when the weather turns to a frosty degree.
Varied both in composition and design, gloves can be a comforting and digit-saving wardrobe addition when you give your selection the required thought.
Scarves
There are two ends of the spectrum for wrapping yourself in a scarf: volume and drama, or subtle and small. Both ends of this scale are good options for keeping you warm; it's more a matter of taste when it comes to deciding on where you land for your scarf-acquiring.
Bold and bright, branded and statement, or simple and classic are all considerations to bear in mind. As your scarf is an accessory that needs to work with your day-to-day dressing, make sure it's a versatile one above all else.
Bags
In the winter months, you are going to need a carry-all to stow all your accessories once you reach the office — or if you find the day is proving warmer than it first appeared. Find an option that feels like it fits in with your personal sense of style, one that doesn't look tacked on to your outfit but an intentional part of it — that way, you'll be much more likely to use it regularly.
For Changeable Forecasts
According to the old saying, 'There's no such thing as bad weather, there's only wrong clothing'. With that in mind, preparation for a changeable couple of months ahead is always a good idea. This doesn’t always mean rainy days — on a sub-zero, sunny day, having sunglasses on hand can make things easier (and a lot more stylish). Waterproof shoes, durable bags, and a well-made umbrella that you won’t forget on the train are all easy wins for when the heavens do open.