1/ Invest in high-tech exercise gear
If you can’t think of anything worse than sleeping in your workout clothes (apparently, it’s meant to get you out of bed in the morning), buy up on ultra-warm, high performance activewear instead. Try Lululemon’s Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve training tops, which are warm yet lightweight, paired with their sleek First Mile jacket, designed to keep the chill off even on the frostiest mornings.
2/ Shelve cold breakfasts until September
Your cereal-and-milk combo just isn’t going to cut it on chilly mornings, and health experts say warm meals are easier for the body to digest. Nothing beats a nourishing bowl of porridge to keep you satiated until lunchtime – and as an added bonus, it’s one of the healthiest breakfasts there is. We’re loving Carman’s convenient porridge sachets for weekday mornings.
3/ Swap cotton and wool jumpers for luxurious cashmere
Lightweight enough to fit under a coat; chic enough to wear in the office: cashmere is a winter essential. Think beyond black and choose slim-fit cashmere knits in navy, burgundy and olive green – try the affordable selection at Everlane, Grana and Uniqlo.
4/ Upgrade your skincare
Drying foam cleansers have no place in a winter skincare regime; same goes for the lightweight gel moisturiser that saw you through summer. The combination of drying winds and cranked-up heating calls for emollient cream or oil cleansers and weekly application of a hydrating face mask.
5/ Prevent chapped lips
The only way to experiment with the season’s plum lip trend is to ensure your pout is in perfect condition. Invest in a hard-working lip balm (ideally one that contains SPF) and keep one in glove box, desk drawer and handbag. Try Lanolips Essential Lip Tints Trio.
6/ Consider your footwear
As painful as it is, it’s time to toss those Gucci mules aside until spring and bust out your boots instead. Looking for a shoe that’s more elegant for the office? The new trend for velvet loafers offers a chic way to keep winter chills at bay.
7/ Up your vitamin C intake
Boost your immune system by ensuring you’re eating from the entire colour spectrum (the only way to include a range of essential vitamins and minerals in your diet). Vitamin C-rich oranges and kiwi fruit are now in season and make a delicious (and nutritious) breakfast accompaniment or afternoon snack.