Winter-proof your wardrobe without looking frumpy for your vacays in Japan, Finland or Austria
Presenting your fashion forecast of the most coveted cold-weather staples by Net-A-Porter.
Living in Singapore may not prepare us for a cold climate in wintry countries like Switzerland or Japan but that doesn't mean we can't plan ahead for it. If you're thinking of visiting Christmas markets or skiing for the first time, planning your winter wardrobe is important as well.
When packing for your wintry escape, do follow these tips to prepare for sub-zero temperatures:
Pack smartly: Mastering the art of layering is an easy task. But don't forget a warm insulated layer inside to keep yourself toasty even when you're skiing in -10 degrees Celcius climate. You will want to look for natural materials like wool, cashmere, leather or cotton to keep warm. Polyester isn't going to do any good for insulation, plus they're not great for the environment
Buffer your travel schedule: Wintry climates have extreme weather patterns, and you can sometimes expect heavy snowfall, which means you're bound to have transportation delays. Be sure to buffer in additional travelling days and check the air and train schedules frequently
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What would we wear for different climates? Here's our curated picks from Net-A-Porter:
1. Skiing and snowboarding in Japan
Japan is one of the team's favourite destinations to visit – whether it's their cherry blossom season or changing autumn colours, the winter season is also another popular time to partake in some outdoor activities. Some of the popular ski resort destinations include Rusutsu, Niseko and Nozawa Onsen.
Moncler Vistule quilted shell down jacket
Moncler's 'Vistule' jacket is generously filled with insulating down, so whether you're enjoying winter in the city or out on the slopes, it'll keep you warm. It's made from lightweight quilted shell and has a high, padded collar with a rib-knit trim for an extra element of coziness. The snap-fastening cuff tabs lock in heat.
Moncler Bondree quilted shell down hooded coat
While naturally more warming, the longline proportions of Moncler's 'Bondree' coat are striking, too. It's made from quilted shell padded with down, and hooded for better weather proofing.
2. Visiting Christmas markets in Austria
You can find the most romantic Christmas markets in Austria: Vienna, Salzburg, Vorarlberg, Carinthia and more. This Advent period in Austria is known as "the most peaceful time of the year." It is a time of old customs: Baking biscuits, putting up Christmas decorations, singing Christmas carols and many other much-loved traditions are shared by families in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
In December, temperatures would dip to 5 degrees Celcius during day time and -1 degrees Celcius in Vienna, while other parts can experience harsh weather down to -12 degrees Celcius in Stolden.
Barbour Marsett leather and velvet-trimmed quilted shell jacket
Barbour's 'Marsett' jacket is the chic countryside coat you've been searching for - but it'll look just as cool in the city. Made from glossy quilted shell, it has a pointed leather collar and velvet trims on the back and pockets. The checked lining has an adjustable toggle to cinch your waist.
Toteme + NET SUSTAIN draped fringed wool-blend jacket
Totême's jacket combines two outerwear essentials with scarf-inspired panels that drape elegantly around your neck. Cut from dark-gray wool, it's outlined by ivory chain stitches and frothy fringe. Button yours up over denim.
Canada Goose Cypress quilted shell down jacket
Canada Goose's 'Cypress' down jacket feels contemporary with its cropped shape and blown-up quilting. It's made from shell and has detachable straps as a playful styling option.
3. Driving through New Zealand in a campervan
Congrats! You're about to embark on the trip of your life, driving through New Zealand in a campervan. Imagine waking up to sunrise over rugged mountains and be greeted by the sounds of the waves? Before you check in your luggage, ensure you've packed the essentials, including warm wear. New Zealand's winter months of June to August bring colder weather to much of the country, and more rain to most areas in the North Island. The far North of the country has an average temperature of about 15 degrees Celcius, while the deep south has a cooler 9 degrees Celcius average.
Alex Mill Betty merino wool-blend turtleneck sweater
Alex Mill's 'Betty' sweater is versatile and timeless. Knitted from a soft merino wool-blend, it has a relaxed shape with ribbed trims and a chic turtleneck. Style it with luxe leather pants and jeans alike.
SEA Cele cable-knit wool sweater
Sea's chunky 'Cele' sweater is cable-knitted with an alternating stripe and diamond motif traced by delicate pointelle stitches. It's spun from a cream wool and has a wide collar and ribbed cuffs. Wear yours with inky jeans or one of the brand's skirts.
In partnership with Net-A-Porter.