If you’re a SoCal girl like myself, a real winter is not something we regularly experience. Visiting a place that has a real winter can seem daunting when we think about the cold weather and the fact that jeans and sweater are all that’s needed for a winter in southern California. Let me share with you SoCal girl’s guide to how to say warm when visiting the winter.
1. Fleece-Lined Leggings: Now let me tell you, fleece lined leggings (or “Cuddl Duds”) will be your best friend. If your trip is a week long, I recommend bringing two-three pairs because you’ll be wearing a pair- or two- every day. Layering these under your pants or layering two pairs under a skirt will help you retain your body heat as well as keeping an extra soft layer of warmth next to your skin.
$18.99 at Kohl’s
2. Thermal undershirts: Like fleece lined leggings, having a thermal top or long-sleeved shirt under your sweaters and coats keeps a layer of warmth right up against your skin that helps retain your body heat.
$21.99 at Kohl’s
3. Thick socks/over the knee socks: When traveling Europe in the winter, I would wear over the knee socks either over my pants or under them and over my leggings. I felt like this was helpful because it added an extra layer to the part of your body that is not covered by your down coat. However, most over the knee socks are not thick. In order to keep your toes from freezing, laying thick socks- wool socks are very nice- will help keep your feet warm.
(left) $11.99 at Target
(right) $7.00 at Target
Source (left)
Source (right)
4. Waterproof boots: Emphasis on waterproof. When it rains, we get wet, but for heaven sakes keep your feet dry if you can help it! If investing in completely waterproof shoes isn’t worth it for you, spray your boots with a weather protectant spray. Winter boots come in many styles and in different levels of outdoor “ruggedness,” so do some research and choose one that best fits your life and travels. I also recommend getting a size or half size up so that you can fit your thick socks without squishing your toes.
$100 at Northface
5. Down coat: Sometimes called a “puffer” coat, I highly recommend a down coat that covers your butt, it will work magic to keep you warm. Again, these come in tons of different colors, cuts and fashions, so pick one that best fits your style.
$89.99 at Macys (on sale right now! Was $150)
6. Scarves, gloves and headcover: Scarves will be your best friend. If your neck is warm, you will be warm. Gloves are also important so that your fingers won’t freeze. If you are going to be doing winter sports, get gloves that are waterproof. If you are just sightseeing, you can get by with smaller gloves, but I recommend something with some wind protection especially if you do not have pockets. Hats and winter headbands are helpful for keeping your ears warm, and again, there are so many styles to choose from.
$18.71 at American Eagle