Fashion and Function: How to Look Good and Stay Warm
When Chris and I lived on a sailboat, one of the biggest challenges was learning to incorporate my personal style while out in the elements. Once a fashion designer, I had to whittle down my wardrobe to fit into two duffle bags. Not only that, the clothing had to be waterproof, able to get dirty, and not hinder me from climbing in and out and all around the boat. This experience turned out to be a great preview of being a fisherman’s wife full of trap yards, boatyards, and harbors, too. This…was a challenge. After years of dressing for the weather, I realized how much I missed dressing up for myself! Fashion is an expression of the heart that we can take in any comfortable direction. There are no rules anymore! Plus, it does wonders for your self-esteem. (Catch a glimpse of your reflection like, Who’s that?!) And sometimes, I want to bust it out, even when going to the boat. So the elusive fashion + function challenge haunted me for years – how do I stay warm and still look fabulous? Finally, I’ve figured it out.
Ask Yourself:
- Can I transition from boat to land life? I like to dress as if I’m going to see live music. 😄
- Are the layers easy to pack away and get back out when the weather changes?
- What can I wear that won’t snag? When you’re on a boat, you’ve got to keep to yourself, so leave your long flowy skirts and dangling earrings safe at home.
- Is this high quality that will last? 95% of my wardrobe is wool, cashmere, cotton, silk, linen. Natural fibers make it easy to breathe, plus wool and cashmere stay warm when wet and don’t trap smells as synthetic fibers do. Important when you’re on a trip and need to repeat outfits a few times!
Layer Like a Boss:
Here’s how I layer from the inside out. Of course, I leave out or take layers off, depending on the weather. But here’s a breakdown of how I stay toasty:
- Socks > Fleece leggings > Skinny leg pants > Wool legwarmers over skinny leg or under flare plant> Boots or non-skid shoe
- Tank > Tshirt > Cashmere sweater > Puffy jacket > Rain shell
- Scarf tied in a bow and fluffed out > Beanie > Rings > Stud earrings
If it’s super gnarly cold, I’ll throw a vest on over the cashmere vest, then zip up in the puffy. Here’s a link to a great vest option that’s thin, light, but toasty when piled underneath. BONUS FASHION TIP: I find great wool and cashmere pieces at thrift stores, especially during the summertime when people are clearing out their closets. The bonus of thrift store finds is that they are less precious in a way. The difference between staining a $10 cashmere sweater verus a $150 one is less painful. To prevent shrinkage, wash on delicate with cold water and lay flat to dry.
I’ve listed some items that I currently own and have on repeat in my wardrobe. My staples, if you will. Hope these inspire you to play around with your favorite basics, too! Also, I would love to know how you show your style when staying functional is a priority. Please share in the comments below!
