Those winter blues can really sneak up on us, even if we feel more active and engaged than ever. One day you’re enjoying the crisp autumn air, and the next thing you know, you’re staring at a closet full of dark colors feeling like everything’s a little bit flat and tired

It’s totally normal to feel this way when the days get shorter and the weather keeps you inside more than you’d like. A few good habits are to keep exercising at this time of year, to enjoy Vitamin D, and perhaps up your magnesium intake, though be certain to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your supplementation or diet.

But could our habits also have an effect? You might find yourself reaching for the same cozy but somewhat dreary outfits day after day, for instance, perhaps enjoying the home comforts of thicker hoodies and baggy jogger bottoms. But can this only serve to make us feel more lethargic? Well, warmth is the priority of course, but what if leaning into fashion, not against it, could help us beat the winter blues?

It’s a thought experiment worth entertaining. So, let’s entertain it:

Balance Lively Colors!

Winter doesn’t have to mean constant shades of gray and black. Some people find that adding just one bright piece to their outfit makes such a difference in how they feel. Maybe it’s a cheerful scarf or a surprisingly colorful sweater under your coat, full of festive zeal. You can also layer up nicely here too, with thinner fabrics that allow you to feel less chained down or heavy based on heavier fabrics you might usually wear. You might wear flattering, comfortable and cozy white leggings instead of super thick jogger bottoms, for instance. This way you can enjoy your home without feeling like an extension of your bed, and that might help you shed off some lethargy.

Air Flow & Breathability

It’s easy to over-wear clothes during winter (though no one will fault you for wanting to stay warm!) but this can sometimes lead to feeling too contained. This approach tends to make us layer up until we can barely move, but breathability makes such a difference in how comfortable you feel. For instance, wearing breathable fabrics, but more of them, can help you feel a little more air flow and lighter but will retain your body heat compared to one thick sweater. Better yet,  modern winter fabrics have gotten really clever about letting your skin breathe while keeping warmth in. It’s pretty amazing how much more energized you feel when you’re not constantly adjusting layers or feeling trapped in your clothes.

Accessories That Inspire You

It’s nice to add a sense of presence instead of resting only in comfort during winter That artsy brooch you found at a local market can work wonders on a nice winter coat, for example, while opting to switch up your general layering of jewelry can help you feel new. Perhaps you’ll wear a messenger bag because it helps your back feel less constrained by a rucksack, or keep a nice umbrella that can easily slot under your arm when not used, all of this is worth preparing. It helps you travel lighter and with more confidence.

With this advice, we hope you can feel less ennui with your fashion choices this winter.

Image: Pexels – CC0 License