Prioritizing warmth doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style, here are a few additions to add to your wardrobe in the colder months

By Surina Mehroke

With temperatures dropping, it becomes increasingly harder to look stylish in the colder months. Warmth becomes a priority as you find yourself putting on layer upon layer and your sense of style is shoved aside. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to accessorize to keep your outfits looking cool whilst still staying warm.

The winter months are hard to navigate but accessories are your best friend. Accessorizing is the perfect medium to add your own flare to an otherwise simple outfit, elevating an outfit from being worn to being styled.

Knitwear

Knitwear is a staple in every season. This gender-inclusive accessory allows a variety of textures, rich patterns and colours, ensuring you can find a piece that matches your own aesthetic. When looking for Knitwear pieces, consider coordinating with other garments and layering to achieve an elevated look.

Whilst knitwear is effective, the choices can be overwhelming. When sourcing a good quality knit, you should start by reviewing the material composition and checking that the knitwear has a high yarn content. For example, if the material description of a jumper is only 41 per cent wool then it is best to avoid it. Products that are made with 90 to 100 per cent yarn will not only look better but guarantee longevity.

Statement Belts

As seen by the strong presence in 23 F/W fashion weeks, statement belts are in revival. Whilst they might not provide extra warmth, they are a quick and simple way to elevate your winter outfits.

Belts can be used to aid any aesthetic. From silky satin and delicate chain belts to larger industrial pieces, adding a piece like thatbelt might be the cherry on top that gives your winter outfit the perfect final touch.

Beyond adding a point of interest to an outfit, a belt can also be used to alter the silhouette of a look. Using a belt to cinch in the waistline can bring back form to a bulky winter outfit and ensure that the proportions are tailored to your liking

Balaclavas

Circling back to knitwear, balaclavas specifically are the ‘it girl’ of accessories this season. Originating from the Crimea region in Europe, these headscarves have become a winter wardrobe staple for many. The balaclava is a practical winter add-on ensuring you stay as warm as possible while looking as current and fashionable as winter permits.

Think of balaclavas as an extension to the classic sweater and cable knits. Use them to form a matching set with your other knitwear to show off a complimentary look that echoes your personal style.

If you are not convinced, perhaps it’s because you have yet to find the right style. Look around this season, as the market is flooded with balaclavas of different knits, textures and patterns and you are guaranteed to find one to your liking.

Leg Warmers

Lastly, leg warmers are the ultimate addition to your winter wardrobe. The rise of the ballet aesthetic reintroduced leg warmers back into the fashion sphere this past year, but as they gained popularity, leg warmers have become a fashion phenomenon of their own.

With these accessories you are guaranteed to add interest to your winter looks and elevate outfits from last season. Use the accessories combined or individually to appear current and fashionable this Canadian winter.