How to survive cold weather?

Freezing temperature may be part of everyday life for natives of northern states but for me, a temporary transplant used to mild winter weather, it was a learning curve. I moved from Arizona to Michigan in the beginning of September for work. My appointment is for 4 months.  I like to state that I brought a wide range of clothing with me but 2/3 of my clothes were useless by the end of October. Although the mid-weight wool coats and my trench coat with quilted lining helped a lot, when the snow started falling and temperature dipped below 35⁰F, the only thing that saved me from freezing was my new down coat. It took me a few tries to find the right hat or the right gloves, so here is a list of my necessary supplies:

-A down coat obviously. Do your research and buy one of the thicker ones (well worth the money). Mine is a bit flimsy and lightweight and I need to layer a wool coat or jacket underneath when it is windy (although I can pack it into a 5”×10” pouch). Many of the new down coats are nipped at the waist and are fitted which makes them more flattering.The knee length and hooded is ideal.

-Fleece lined leggings. Buy them in your size and a size larger so you can layer them. Right now it’s 28⁰F outside and I have layered two pair of fleece-lined leggings under my jeggings!

-Hat with ear flaps. I tend to get headaches from the cold wind. After experimenting with beanies and berets (without success) I found knit hats with fleece lining and ear flaps which saved me from a total brain freeze. I finally bought the fur lined water resistance version and am truly warm and happy!

-Fleece lined gloves and mittens. My cashmere lined leather ones gave up the fight at 40⁰F. For the best result get the heavy-duty ski gloves. I forgot to bring mine so I am layering a pair of fleece gloves under a pair of furry fleece lined mittens.

-Fur lined boots with thick rubber soles and water resistant surface. Knee high is usually the best. Make sure they have good traction at the soles for when there is snow and slush or freezing rain and the sidewalks are as slippery as an ice rink. Also pay attention to the calf width and get boots you can tuck your pants into.

-Mix wool or acrylic socks. You may need to layer a couple of pairs so have plenty of these!  

-And don't forget warm densely knit  scarves!

-Wool or cashmere turtlenecks. I like to keep my neck covered in cold and have been wearing turtleneck for three months straight now.

-Fitted long sleeved tees for layering under the turtlenecks or sweaters.

-Wool or cashmere sweaters. I layer them over the turtlenecks of usually the same color. Most of them are fitted which keeps my silhouette slim.

-Wool or felt coats to layer under the down coat on ultra cold days.

My recommendations for anyone else who’s moving to a northern sate in winter:

-Dress in layers! Outside sure is freezing but inside the buildings is usually too warm (75-80⁰). Layers are your best friends!

-Check the weather’s monthly trend and give it a 10 degree margin! When it is windy, usually it feels much colder.

-People usually recommend silk or poly-mix thermal wear (long johns) but my research showed these provide the same amount of warmth as fleece lined leggings. Your choice!

-Take vitamin C supplements (check with your Dr. to make sure it’s OK) to boost your immune system.

-Drink lots of hot tea and soup!

-An electric throw or blanket offers a lot of comfort on chilly evenings.

Stay warm and best of luck!