Winter Getaway Style
With the festive season now a distant memory and the dregs of winter still lingering, it’s easy to find yourself daydreaming of the sun-soaked summer holidays ahead. Of course, if the pressures of the new year are really getting to you, you can choose to take off now, without waiting for the chill to relent. Whether you’re after a culture-rich European city break or something more exotic, you’ll want to ensure your style is on point. Read on for a lowdown on the essential pieces to pack for some of our favourite winter getaway destinations, from Norway to New South Wales.
Prague, Czech Republic
With its historic architecture and quaint cobbled streets, the Czech capital is arguably at its most picturesque in winter, when you can expect a generous flurry of snowflakes to cover the city’s medieval castles, creating a prime Instagram-worthy scene. Of course, this means you’ll be contending with below zero temperatures so you’ll want to stay layered up for the duration of your trip. Where to start? We’d suggest packing a selection of your favourite knitwear, from roll necks you can layer to chunky cable knits. Inject some colour into Prague’s wintry setting by opting for knits in rich hues. Whether you team a woollen blood orange jumper with charcoal slim-fit jeans or layer a burgundy sweater under a navy jacket, a shot of colour will instantly liven up your look. If you’re looking for additional warmth from your legwear, a pair of brushed cotton tailored joggers or some fitted long johns can be worn underneath your favourite jeans. A tailored woollen overcoat is the perfect choice of outerwear for Prague in the winter, as you’ll be able to layer up underneath while still retaining a sense of refinement. If you’ve taken our advice and plan to opt for a colourful knit, then keep your overcoat neutral – a black, grey or navy single-breasted version offers optimal versatility. Finally, some quality leather boots (whether a chukka, brogue or Derby silhouette), complete with a practical rubber grip sole, in a timeless neutral shade will team perfectly with the rest of your holiday luggage and won’t suffer if you’re trudging through a little snow.
Example Looks
Key Pieces
- Asos Wool Overcoat
- Ben Sherman Overcoat
- River Island Knitted Roll Neck Jumper
- Asos Thermal Lightweight Meggings
- Allsaints Arle Crew Jumper
- Allsaints Wilde Sweatpant
- Berluti Cable-knit Melange-cotton Sweater
- J.crew Slim-fit Wool And Cashmere-blend Overcoat
- Nn.07 Peter Slim-fit Washed-denim Jeans
- Reiss Max Patch Pocket T-shirt Grey
- Common Projects Original Achilles Leather Sneakers
- Want Les Essentiels De La Vie Lennon Leather And Mesh Sneakers
London, UK
Last but by no means least, the UK’s ‘Big Smoke’ is worth bearing in mind if culture and shopping take precedence over fair weather on your winter getaway priorities list. The weather in London is changeable to say the least; what’s pretty much guaranteed though is that you’ll encounter wind and rain during the colder months, so it’s worth investing in a high quality umbrella that is strong enough to withstand strong gales and even hail. Brands such as Fulton and London Undercover (how apt) offer superb designs that deliver fashion and function in equal measure. For the rest of your look, you’ll need to pay attention to the forecast before flying. If temperatures are nearing zero, an overcoat or parka is advisable, but if all you’re likely to encounter is a brisk breeze, you’ll get away with a waterproof trench or mac – a lightweight style crafted from cotton or nylon is ideal for layering knitwear underneath. Smart-casual is the name of the game here, so consider packing a selection of slim-cut wool trousers and cotton chinos, along with a few button-down shirts, casual lightweight jumpers and thin gauge roll necks to create a versatile capsule travel wardrobe that can adapt to any occasion. When it comes to footwear, try a clean and crisp pair of trainers or a classic desert boot in leather, as you’ll likely be doing your fair share of walking through the capital, despite its award-winning public transport infrastructure. Come evening, don a well-cut suit in a winter-appropriate fabric such as wool or flannel to catch a show in London’s renowned West End. Whether you opt for a single-breasted two-piece, or pull out all the stops with a three-piece, combine with a cri