Panicking about what to wear in the snow? These are the tricks fashion editors rely on to stay stylish in the cold

The mere mention of the cold stuff has me shuddering, but over the years, I've worked out what to wear in the snow that ensures I'm presentable for work (because apparently snow days are only for children), without compromising on comfort and warmth.

When it comes to thriving in an icy blast, comfort is key, and that starts with practical, warming layers that are easy to pull together, many of which should form the base layer of your winter capsule wardrobe. Despite the colder temperatures, natural fibres, such as wool and cashmere, remain at the top of my recommendations because their breathability will keep you warm, but not sweaty. This isn't always the case with synthetic items, which trap the air to the point they can make you feel overly warm, rather than perfectly comfortable.

Of course, the other two most important items in a snow-proof wardrobe are great boots and outerwear. You'll want boots that can deal with wet and snowy weather, ideally with great tread, because snow usually results in treacherously icy pavements, so grippy soles are a must. Similarly, while high percentage wool coats are ideal for keeping you warm, and are also pretty good at performing in lightly wet weather, such as gentle snow fall.

Here's what to wear in the snow to stay warm and stylish this winter

Don't let wet and cold weather dampen your style. These are the tricks that fashion experts rely on to stay cosy in wintry weather and beat the snow without compromising on polish.

1. Thermal base layers

Thermals aren't just for skiers, they're a great way of layering added warmth under any look and the high street has really taken to this key winter basic, with lots of cost effective options available all manner of silhouettes.

"Layering is key when dressing for the snow," says woman&home's deputy fashion editor Charlie Bell, "Invest in a decent base layer that works as a second skin that you can wear underneath any outfit."

2. Sweater weather

Cashmere and wool are the ultimate cold-weather partners. Breathable but warming, they help to keep your microclimate perfectly balanced. Definitely more of an investment piece, as these natural fibres carry higher price points, they are worth the investment, and when well looked after, they can last for many years.
And woman&home's fashion director, Paula Moore agrees.
"Cashmere is an excellent choice when deciding what to wear in the snow. Being cold is awful, but you don't want to end up with a sweaty, overheating feel either, which is why cashmere is the perfect answer. Regulating your body temperature, a pair of cashmere leggings or joggers, or a snuggly sweater will keep the weather at bay and your look in line with Quiet Luxury".

3. Outerwear

When it comes to the best winter coat trends for 2025, puffer jackets haven't really gone out of style; perfect for snowy weather, the key thing to remember is to balance your proportions. The heavier or bulkier the puffer, the more important it is to streamline your silhouette elsewhere. This could be done with leggings, your best skinny jeans or with tights and boots to ensure that your shape is nipped in at some point. You can also look for long puffer coats with belts that will nip you in at the waist.

While water or shower-resistant fabrics are ideal here, because snowfall and sleet can leave you feeling damp, wool coats have a certain level of water resistance too that's naturally engineered, and of course they are lovely and warm (and breathable too).

"When it comes to heading out in the snow, it's important to think carefully about what you're going to wear", says fashion stylist and editor, Antonia Kraskowski. "A good puffer jacket will keep you warm, but if you don't want the bulk, look for technical brands such as Rab or invest in a ski jacket if you're likely to be in a cold environment for a longer period of time".

4. Snow Boots

It seems obvious, but footwear is super important in snowy weather. You'll want to look for a good sole, with a grippy tread to ensure that those suddenly icy conditions don't cause you too much hassle, and you'll want a level of waterproofing to your footwear too.

Now, if you're heading into the office or to an event, you may wish to wear snow boots for the journey, before swapping to a smarter shoe on arrival, because as functional and fun as this style of boot is, they're usually pretty chunky and sporty and not at all polished in the traditional sense.

5. Warm for work

Keeping warm and stylish for the office is no easy task in the snow, but I've put together a few key staples that mean you can turn up, look the business, but feel good too. Once again, we're looking for cosy natural fibres, such as wool blazers, that can layer over slim knits or the best thermals for plenty of polish that will ensure your micro-climate is working hard too.

Keep an eye out for wool or wool-blend tailored trousers too, as these will be warmer and comfier than even your favourite jeans during snowy weather.

6. Party ready

If you're still heading out in snowy weather, because it is the festive season after all, I'd suggest a sparkly jumper dress, thick and cosy tights and some boots that can really hold their own.

While you might be tempted to still pull out your best little black dress, and if you still want to, you should, for more relaxed dinners and get-togethers, an embellished knit strikes the perfect balance of smart casual dressing.

7. Winter accessories

Accessories take on a slightly different meaning when it comes to what to wear in the snow, and while I'd largely keep to a crossbody bag, to keep your hands free - a necessity in more slippery, icy weather, cold-weather accessories are mainly concerned with hats, scarves, gloves etc.

In this instance, I'd look for lined leather gloves, as they tend to be a little more weatherproof, and luxe cashmere scarves and hats (in whichever shape suits you best). Opt for neutral colourways so that they can go with whatever coat you pair them with.

When it comes to how to dress in the snow, there really are some key outfit formulas that you can rely on to keep you comfortably stylish, so don't get into a spin.

Most importantly is layer up, and thermals are a great base layer if you really feel the cold. Investing in natural fibre knits such as cashmere or wool will improve the breathability of your clothing, keeping you warm, without breaking a sweat (which can happen even in the snow, especially if you're commuting to work or off on a brisk walk).

A good coat, in either wool or breathable down in a classic, neutral colourway, will last for years, and will always ensure that you can beat the chill. And of course, as snow can be slippery, especially if it turns to ice, great snow boots, or shoes with waterproof abilities and a grippy tread are an absolute must.

Use these key ideas to help build an edit of what to wear in the snow, so that when the white stuff falls, you're always prepared, and remember, most of these items, while they are crafted for snowy weather, are wearable and ideal for the coldest of days too, so you'll get plenty of wear out of them anytime temperatures fall below 5 degrees.

Antonia Kraskowski

With over 15 years experience in the fashion industry, freelance fashion editor, Antonia Kraskowski has worked at Conde Nast, across titles including, Glamour, Vogue New Markets and Easy Living. Antonia later went on to serve as the Fashion Editor of Express Newspapers and Magazines for five years before embarking on a freelance career.

Charlie Bell

As deputy fashion editor at Future plc, Charlie works across multiple women’s magazines including Woman & Home, Woman and Woman's Own, ensuring she has her finger on the pulse. Beginning her career in the magazine industry in 2009, Charlie has written for titles including Stylist, Closer and Dare. With a weakness for a printed midi dress, Charlie is on a mission to shop more sustainably and loves finding new ethical brands and second-hand buys.

Paula Moore

Currently Group Fashion Director at Future Publishing, Paula Moore has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years. Overseeing the fashion pages for Woman and Home, Simply Woman and Home, Woman, Woman’s Own, Woman’s Weekly and Chat magazines.