FROM THE FROZEN MIDWEST… TO HOUSTON WINTERS
I was so excited to kiss all my serious cold-weather clothing good-bye when we moved to Texas from the Midwest five years ago.
Houston weather is far more suitable for me, as I’m known for snuggling under a fleece blanket when our A/C is on no matter how hot it is outside.
I happily ditched my down parka and snow boots. But I did keep many of my “winter” clothes and accessories, thinking I’d finally be able to wear the cute boots/sweater or flannel/scarf/poncho combo everyone in the south thinks northerners wear all winter. {If you don’t know: it’s way too cold to be cute in Chicago in February.}
For the five years I’ve lived in Houston, our winters have been mild {except of course a certain cold snap last February that I doubt I have to remind anyone about}. So, alas, my heavier boots and scarves have mostly stayed in my closet.
I have found ways to stave off boredom and change my wardrobe for the seasons, even when shorts, tank tops and sundresses have been weather-appropriate nearly year round.
Here are a few ideas to get your wardrobe feeling winter-ready even if it’s still 80 degrees outside.
Color
This is a simple one! I tend to wear a lot of black, and black works WAY better when the temps and sun are slightly less oppressive than in summer months.
I choose black or other muted colors (Army green, dusty rose) during fall/winter and keep my bright colored clothing for the spring/summer months.
Black is so versatile. I love wearing an oversize cardigan or duster in a print over a simple outfit like this one: light-weight, sleeveless black blouse, denim, black booties. This works for lunch plans, going into my kids’ school for something, or casual dinner out.
I also find myself searching for those “muted” colors in rompers, jumpsuits, or maxi dresses during the summer months so that I can save those pieces for winter. Look for pieces that will work well layered with cardigans, denim jackets, or vests in cooler temps. This maxi dress is a go-to for me; I love the muted lavender camo print. I pair it with sneakers and a casual cardigan in cooler weather to take kids to the playground or run errands. It’s comfy but it feels like an outfit.
Denim Jacket
Yes, you need one. It’s worth searching for a great fit and something you really love! Mine has pearls along the shoulders which make me feel so polished even though, of course, it’s just a jean jacket. Paired with a cropped cotton jumpsuit, I can dress either of these pieces up or down with accessories and shoes. OH, and can I also mention that a closed-toed sling-back or mule gives off a winter vibe without adding much heat to your feet. These Steve Madden flats are a favorite of mine.
Add a Kimono Cardigan to your wardrobe
I’m a big fan of the flowing kimono cardigan trend for two main reasons: first, laying a kimono cardigan over a dress or tank gives body coverage but little warmth. Second, it can dress up otherwise casual pieces. Perfect for date-night or happy hour with girlfriends: lace kimono cardigan, strappy printed camisole, jeans, stacked heels, and a velvet headband.
Materials Matter
It stinks planning a specific outfit far in advance of say, New Years Eve, and having to change last minute because it’s too hot to comfortably wear. I now gravitate towards long-sleeved party tops with a little sparkle that are gauzy/sheer that I can either wear with a vest over for chilly weather or camisole underneath when it’s hot.
Materials like faux fur, velvet, and leather also evoke “winter” to me. You can play with using accessories, like headbands or scrunchies, to keep these warm-weather appropriate.
Velvet evokes a winter feeling- even when worn with a tank top!
I also want to give a shout-out to the maxi shirt trend I’m seeing. This top would never work in Houston summer heat! But I like it a lot for winter. Bonus: because it’s paneled to be open at the bottom, it would be breastfeeding friendly, too!
When all else, fails, layer, layer, layer
Yes, sometimes it gets really cold. When it does, I layer the heck out of my clothes. This is the best way to make your light weight wardrobe work for you during those rare cold snaps! Instead of buying a bulky, heavy pullover sweater, for example, you can get more use out of cardigans, chambray button-ups, and a graphic tee that you might wear separately during warmer weather and layered during cold.
One of my favorite things about Texas winter: being able to wear all the cute ankle booties I couldn’t wear in the midwestern snow!
And most likely, you’ll end up like this. 😉
Whatever you wear this winter, I hope you wear it with confidence and a smile. Stay cool and comfortable, my friends!
Pin this post and be sure to follow
Houston Moms
on Pinterest!
