Staying comfortable year round involves choosing the right fabrics and layering effectively. Whether you’re braving the summer heat, handling chilly winter days, or dealing with unpredictable weather in-between, the right clothes can make all the difference.
Here are some of the best materials, layering techniques, and wardrobe staples to stay comfortable no matter the weather.
Use smart layering
Layering works in hot and cold weather, but you’ll need to layer a little differently for each season. In cold weather, the idea is to start with a base layer that will wick moisture away from your body. For example, thermal shirts, nylon, and wool make excellent base layers. Nylon wicks sweat away, while wool regulates body temperature and won’t make you sweat. Both nylon and wool are ideal for extremely cold temperatures, while thermal shirts are good for moderately cold temperatures.
Depending on how cold it is, your middle layer can be fleece, wool, or cotton. The fleece will retain your body heat, but since it’s not next to your skin, it can’t absorb sweat or make you cold.
Your outer layer should be waterproof on the outside. This can be a jacket made of Gore-Tex or any material designed to shield you from the elements.
In warmer months, you can layer cotton clothing to stay warm and remove items if you get too hot. For example, you might wear a nice shirt, a blazer, and a scarf. Throughout the day, you can remove your scarf, yet your blazer will still look great.
Regardless of the season, compression socks are a timeless staple in any layered wardrobe. If you sit or stand all day without much movement, they can increase comfort, encourage blood flow, and prevent swelling in your feet and legs. Compression socks come in a variety of colors, designs, and cuts, making them ideal for any outfit. You can layer them under any socks, including thick work socks.
Specific clothes for your year-round wardrobe
Some types of clothing are perfect for any temperature, provided your winters aren’t too extreme.
- Tailored jacket. A well-fitted blazer or jacket can layer perfectly over any outfit, providing warmth in winter and pure style in warmer months.
- Denim skirt. A classic denim skirt goes great with tights and boots in the winter or summer. Skirts also pair well with sandals for those days when you just can’t wear regular shoes.
- Basic slacks. Slacks are always in style, and they’re not too hot in summer.
- Sneakers. Comfortable sneakers can be worn year-round, and can pair with casual and semi-formal outfits.
- Tank tops. Tank tops are great for summer, but can also be layered in the winter under sweaters or jackets. You can also layer a long sleeve shirt underneath a tank.
These clothing items are adaptable to any temperature, and make a solid wardrobe foundation.
Choose specific fabrics
Certain fabrics are better at keeping you warm in winter, but can also be worn all year round.
- Cotton. Cotton is breathable and comfortable, and suited for year-round wear. However, if your winters get below 50°F, cotton is better as an outer layer. Heavier weaves like twill are great for pants and jackets in winter, while light weaves like poplin are ideal for spring and summer.
- Denim. Denim is a versatile fabric that can be worn all year long. For example, denim jeans are perfect for any weather and any temperature. Denim jackets are also a good option, although they can be a little chilly in winter without long sleeves underneath.
- Wool. Natural wool fibers like Merino and Cashmere are thin, soft, and warm. However, rather than trapping your body heat, wool regulates your body heat, making it the ideal fabric for winter base layers. Wool can also be worn in the summertime to stay cool. For example, many people wear wool socks year round to keep their feet warm in winter and cool in summer.
- Linen. If you live in a hot and humid climate, linen will be your best friend. Linen pants are lightweight and breathable, and are perfect for summer. The only problem is that pure linen wrinkles easily, so blends tend to be the better choice.
- Synthetic blends. Fabrics like polyester, nylon, and other synthetics wick moisture away from the body and dry fast, which makes them great for athletic and outdoor wear. Some people prefer to wear synthetic undergarments during the winter while working up a sweat.
Stay comfortable and stylish throughout all seasons
If you have a particular style, you don’t need to sacrifice aesthetics when the seasons change. All you need are the right clothes made from the right materials and you can maintain a stylish appearance while staying comfortable all year long.
