How to winterise your summer wardrobe

As sustainability in fashion becomes an increasingly hot topic, the most responsible way to enjoy your clothes is to wear everything you own as much as possible. Perhaps for you that means ‘declassifying’ your wardrobe: dressing down what is traditionally viewed as workwear for weekends, and doing the same with so-called partywear mid-week.

Making your wardrobe ‘seasonless’ is also a clever way to maximise how often something gets worn. With simple layering techniques, your summer pieces needn’t feel so summery. Here’s how to make your summer clothes winter-appropriate.

Surely a pale, ditsy-print dress can’t work in winter? Wrong. Layering it with shades of grey – think a chunky cardigan or jumper and a pair of calf-grazing boots, as opposed to simply reaching for opaque tights, will take it effortlessly into a new season. 

There comes a time in the meteorological calendar when your ankles just can’t be exposed to the elements anymore – but that doesn’t mean relegating your cropped trousers to spring. Knee-high boots literally bridge the gap between your toes and calves, creating an instantly fashion-forward look. Play around with tones and textures: kick-flare jeans look good with animal-print boots, while wool culottes call for slouchy leather styles.

Many fashion insiders swear by a practical-looking, down-filled thin gilet discreetly layered under coats when the weather turns sub-zero. But a more statement gilet, be it a sleeveless wool ‘coat’ or a shaggy sheepskin style, is just the ticket to make leather jackets and light blazers winter-worthy. You’ll get plenty of mileage out of a camel or navy style, and it offers a considered alternative to your thick winter coat.

Like a hug in clothing form, there’s nothing cosier than a rollneck. Chic worn under shirts when winter sets in, there’s no end to the talents of this unassuming knit. Wear yours under a V-neck or a sleeveless dress for effortless winterisation.

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