Alright, so autumn rolled around again, and that familiar feeling hit me – what am I actually going to wear? The weather gets tricky, you know? One minute it’s crisp and cool, the next the sun’s out and you’re feeling a bit warm. It drives me nuts sometimes.
So, the first thing I did was head to my closet. Just opened it up and stared for a bit. Then I started pulling things out. Last year’s sweaters, jackets I hadn’t seen since spring. Spread them out on the bed. Looked at the pile. A lot of it felt… off. Maybe it was the fit, maybe I was just tired of it. Some stuff was definitely looking a bit worn out too.
Figuring Out the Layers
The main problem I always run into is that temperature change during the day. Leave the house early, it’s cold. By lunchtime, especially if I’m walking around, I start to overheat in a heavy coat. So, over the years, I landed on one main strategy: layers. Sounds simple, and it really is, but getting it right took some trial and error.
Here’s basically what I figured out works for me, piece by piece:
- Base Layer: I start with something comfortable right against the skin. Usually just a plain cotton t-shirt. If it’s looking like a colder day, maybe a long-sleeved tee. Nothing too thick, because this is just the starting point.
- Middle Layer: This is for the actual warmth. I’ll grab a sweater – could be wool, could be a blend. Or sometimes a zip-up fleece, those are really practical. Cardigans work too, easy to unbutton. This is the layer that really traps the heat.
- Outer Layer: This needs to block the wind, maybe handle a little rain. I’ve got a couple of options I rotate. A medium-weight jacket, sort of like a sturdy windbreaker. Or my trusty trench coat if I need to look a bit more put-together. The key is that it’s easy to take off and carry if I get too warm.
Putting it All Together
So, my morning routine now involves a quick look at the weather forecast. Then I grab those pieces. Base tee, check. Sweater or fleece, check. Outer jacket, check.
For the bottom half, I don’t overthink it. Jeans are my default. Maybe chinos if I feel like it. Comfort is key here. No point layering up top if your legs are freezing or uncomfortable.
Shoes are important too. Cold, wet feet are the worst. I usually switch to boots around this time of year. Simple ankle boots, nothing too heavy. They keep my feet dry and add that little bit of extra warmth. Sneakers are fine for dry days, but boots just feel right for autumn.
Oh, and I almost always grab a scarf. Seriously, a scarf makes a huge difference on a chilly morning. Keeps the wind off your neck. And the best part? If you get warm later, it’s small enough to just stuff in your bag or pocket. Sometimes a beanie hat too, if it’s really brisk.
So that’s my system. Base, middle, outer. Add scarf. Choose practical pants and boots. It’s not rocket science, just what I’ve found works through actually doing it season after season. It means I can adjust during the day. Too warm? Take off the jacket, maybe the sweater. Getting cold again? Put ’em back on. It stops me from being stuck either shivering or sweating. Just practical dressing for a practical season. That’s how I handle it.
