my thoughts on the outfit combinations, fabrics, layering, etc. for each temperature range, based on lots of trial and error from Winter 2026 in NYC and spending many a summers in Atlanta.

80℉ & above

• fabrics
  • cotton & linen are the most breathable in times like these
  • love a good nylon piece when on-the-go
• colors
  • a monochromatic all-white or blue-toned look is my go-to
  • this is the time for loud, bright colors like orange, pink, green, etc. to shine
  • absolutely no grey, and since black absorbs light, leave it to the nighttime
• accessories
  • silk scarves are a tiny but mighty addition to your wardrobe from how they can be styled as a shoulder cover, headpiece, or belt while also adding a pop of color
  • gold reigns supreme in the summer, so let the metals mix
  • obviously sunglasses, and preferably in a narrower frame to prevent against a noticeable sunglass tan
• my favorite outfit combos
  • for running errands & casual outings: tennis skirt + a t-shirt or tank + tall socks + sneakers
  • for going to work: a flowy maxi dress + sandals or ballet flats + a sweater to throw over my shoulders to face the office tundra or linen pants + a white tee + flats
  • for going out: tuxedo shorts + a black top + strappy heels + mixed metal accessories (see below) or a sundress + boots

30 – 70℉

• thoughts on each temperature range
  • 70℉: THE BEST TEMPERATURE IN THE WORLD! anything goes here.
  • 60℉: when you can comfortably start to get away with leaving the house without a jacket (and wearing shorts)
  • 50℉: layers become your best friend here, so bringing a sweater is always a good idea (even if you don’t think you’ll need it, because you will). this is also my personal favorite temperature range to wear a true Canadian tuxedo.
  • 40℉: it can get cold quickly if the sun goes away, so i always stash a pair of gloves or scarf in my jacket pocket for when duty calls.
• non-negotiables for layering
  • a cardigan or sweater that goes with everything
  • lots & lots of button downs
  • loose jeans that are cuffable at the bottom
  • pointed mule flats
  • a fun pair of oversized sunglasses
• my favorite outfit combos
  • for running errands & casual outings: jeans + a white tee + statement belt + cropped trench + maybe a sweater over my shoulders (see below)
  • for going to work: slacks + a white tee or button down + sweater + ballet flats or mules + brooch
  • for going out: tuxedo shorts + boots + a long sleeve top + tights (if needed) or flare jeans + heels + a statement top

below 30℉

• how to get through it
  • investing in warm winter basics (e.g. socks, sweaters) made with quality fabrics like wool and cashmere instead of acrylic will keep you nice & cozy without profusely sweating once you reach your indoor destination
  • gloves + coat (either puffy or fur) + hat + ski mask (optional) + scarf = the baseline formula on how to stay comfortably warm, and when in doubt, pack it just in case
  • keeping a predominantly dark-toned palette makes getting dressed and looking cohesive much easier when motivation starts to dwindle during these dark times
  • < 20 degrees is the start of two-pants & face covering territory, where long johns become a non-negotiable at 10 degrees and below
  • investing in a tall pair of leather boots with a thick rubber sole is a game-changer if you live up north and have to walk through street slush frequently
• my favorite outfit combos
  • for running errands & casual outings: loose jeans or sweatpants w/ long johns underneath + sweater(s) + a long fur or puffy coat + all the warm accessories
  • for going to work: long johns + slacks that feel like sweatpants + sweater(s) + snow boots + all the warm accessories
  • for going out: long johns + a proper Canadian tux + boots + a fur coat (see below)

💘, HANNA