Everything we've learned from the British about dressing for winter

This week’s blog features one of my favorite people and my go-to IG account whenever I’m wondering what to wear. I met Kate Lowman last summer when she stopped into the warehouse while on holiday up north. From a simple dinner outfit to a full what-to-wear guide for the season, Kate always seems to have the answers. 

 Kate spent ten years working as a retail merchant before setting up her personal style account, @adaywithkate. She calls herself a “comfort creator” rather than a content creator and I couldn’t agree more. I feel lucky to call her a friend, and was thrilled when she agreed to lend her expertise on some cold weather staples.

There’s something so appealing about British style: It’s classic but seems effortless, functional but still cozy. With damp, cold winters, Brits have to keep practicality at the top of mind. And though the weather is typically wet and windy for much of the winter, don’t expect to see a lot of “tech” gear. In England, folks tend to stick with timeless, natural fibers that kept people warm and dry long before nylon clothes were a thing. Below is our style guide for an English-inspired winter wardrobe that will keep you comfortable–while looking good–all season long.

Waxed coats

A waxed canvas coat is your best bet for protecting yourself from the wind and wet that comes along with winter–and these jackets are quintessentially English. Barbour is an iconic British outwear company, and easily wins our vote for best jackets. We love them for hiking, running errands, and early mornings at the antique fairs. Offering traditional waxed cotton, wool and even nylon coats, we're convinced they have something for everyone. 

Warm sweaters

No English wardrobe is complete without a Fair Isle sweater and this one is our top pick. To get you through to spring, we recommend investing in some other chunky knits as well, like a Fisherman sweater, a roll-neck turtleneck and an oversized cardigan sweater that you can pull on over anything.

Style tip: To avoid looking frumpy in a chunky knit, be sure to style it appropriately. We love to roll up our sleeves and tuck the front slightly off-center, creating a bit of volume.

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Boots, boots, boots

Like sweaters, getting through the winter requires a couple different types of boots. Wellies for when it’s wet as can be, a pair of lace-up boots to keep warm as the temps drop, and a few others for when you want to make a statement.

Layers and good socks

Winter months are the perfect opportunity for layering up, playing with texture and giving your hats and scarves a well-earned moment in the spotlight. Consider adding a turtleneck or merino base layer if you plan to be outdoors, and keep a good pair of cashmere socks on standby. 

Forever pieces 

Now that you’ve got the basics covered, you can have a bit of fun. When it comes to deciding which extras make the cut, Kate says; "Pick the pieces that speak the most to you! It doesn't always have to go with the mold, sometimes it's fun to pick something more unexpected and play with the juxtaposition against a traditional English wardrobe."

Have yourself a British little winter

Shop all of the looks Kate created for this post, and follow @adaywithkate on IG for more styling inspiration. She really is a star.

Thanks for reading,

Xx Liv