Wardrobe · 5 min
Dress in layers for a changing day
Three thin layers instead of one thick one. Easy to take off on a warm bus, easy to add back on a cold street.
A day can move from a cold morning to a warm shop to a chilly evening. One heavy coat is either too warm or not enough. Dressing in layers lets you adjust as you go, and keeps you comfortable without fuss.
The steps
Four small steps,in your own time.
Start with a thin base layer next to the skin, in a soft fabric that breathes.
Add a middle layer for warmth: a fleece, a cardigan or a warm knit, preferably one that opens at the front.
Finish with an outer layer suited to the weather: wind- and water-resistant for wet days, light for mild ones. Add a hat, scarf and gloves on cold days.
Through the day, take off a layer before you get too warm, and put one back on before you get cold.
The reason
Why it helps
Layers trap warm air between them, so several thin ones can keep you warmer than one thick one, and they are easier to adjust. Older people, young children and people with some health conditions can lose heat or overheat more easily, so being able to adjust quickly helps. Front-opening layers are also easier to take on and off.
A gentle variation
If dressing in many layers is tiring, keep to two plus a hat and scarf you can easily add. Keep a spare light layer in a bag or by the door.
WE · TRIBE
Try itwith someone.
If you care for someone who cannot easily tell you they are hot or cold, dress them in layers and check the back of their neck now and then. Layers make it easy to adjust without a full change.
Try it today
Tomorrow, dress in three thin layers instead of one thick one, and adjust them as the day changes.
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