Rain hats, wellington boots and thermals: Fashion heroes for chic outdoor socialising

Lockdown version 2.0 is here and while you may have had to cancel many a winter soirée, the good news is that two people (from different households) can still meet up for a ramble in the countryside, a stroll through the park, or a brisk morning walk on the beach.

Similar guidelines were enforced for the first lockdown stint but, the difference now of course, is that the weather in Britain is getting colder and darker by the week.

So what does this mean for our wardrobes? And is it possible to still look stylish without catching a chill?

With stricter lockdown measures across the country, the social butterflies among us going to be spending a lot more time outside but that doesn’t mean you need to dress down – after all, meeting your friend on a frosty park bench might just be one of the only occasions you’ll get the chance to dress for.

The solution to socialising al fresco lies in investing in a handful of winter-proof pieces that will take on the elements without battering your sartorial reputation. Here are our picks to make a stylish statement while enjoying the great outdoors.

Mastering the art of layering is no mean feat. But master it we should, because learning how to layer your clothes is one of the easiest ways to tackle the unpredictability of the weather at this time of year.

To do this with any degree of success, you only really need to focus on a few key items, the first of which should be the thinnest layer. So, a long-sleeved cotton T-shirt – like this one (£18) from Arket – layered under a chunky knit, such as TOAST’s Fisherman Rib Wool Sweater (£145), should be your starting point. 

For rainy days, add a lighter waterproof jacket like the Short Hooded Coat (£89) from Rains. For your bottom half, invest in a pair of jeans like the Thermal Skinny versions (£84) from ACAI Outdoorwear, which has seen a 2,400 per cent increase in orders for its winter thermal collection since Boris Johnson’s announcement.

“Customers [have been] telling us they’re investing in order to be able to spend more time outdoors, not just walking and enjoying the countryside but, where restrictions allow, socialising alfresco with family and friends,” said Kasia Bromley, the label’s co-founder and creative director.

Heading out in bitingly cold winter also means that comfort is key. But whoever said comfy can’t be chic? For a more elevated look, opt for a knitted midi dress like this funnel neck version (£49.99) from Zara, and team with printed tights, such as Balenciaga’s semi-opaque pair (£195), which stretch to reveal a flocked motif of the house's logo. Finish the look with a pair of knee-high boots and voila – you’ve struck just the right balance between stylish and cosy.

A warm coat is a staple in every woman’s winter wardrobe, but this season, you would be wise to invest in one that has just as much style as it does substance, considering it’s one of the only items of clothing you’re likely to be seen wearing for the next few weeks.

Luckily, fashion brands have spearheaded a shift towards outerwear that offer versatility, warmth and comfort this season, from puffer jackets and parkas to oversized teddys.

A full-length coat adds a touch of instant sophistication to any look, while ensuring your legs are shielded from gale-force winds. One of our top picks is this impactful brown maxi (£79.99) from H&M.

For a sportier mood, consider a padded coat. Seek cropped styles while the weather is mild or upgrade to an oversized version, like Ganni’s Tech Down Oversized Coat (£425), as the temperatures plummet. Available in beige, khaki and black, the long down puffer is made using tech fabric that keep you so warm it will almost feel as though you’re walking around in a duvet. The best part? You can wear it as an everyday coat, or remove the sleeves and transform it into an outdoorsy vest that can be worn as a layer over chunky knitwear.

If you still haven’t invested in a pair of winter boots, now is the time. With the second lockdown dictating that, for the next four weeks at least, our social schedules shift outside, suitable footwear will prove to be the ultimate cold-weather weapon.

For walks in the great outdoors, the thicker the sole, the better. Fortunate then that the standout footwear trend of the season is chunky track sole boots. Among our favourites is this leather pair (£190) with deep lugs and contrasting soles from Arket, and a lace-up knee-high pair that come complete with criss-cross straps and buckles from Zara for £89.99.

Alternatively, wellington and hiking boots have become one of the most sought-after items. No longer reserved for weekends in the countryside, wellies like this pair (£59) from Everlane have been spotted on every fashion editor and street-style star on and off duty, while you can thank Holly Willoughby and her Grenson Nanette Boots (£310) during her I'm A Celebrity stint to thank for just how popular the latter has become.

If the clompy aesthetic isn’t your vibe, square-toe styles are reigning supreme with the likes of & Other Stories selling a cream croc-inspired pair (£135). Alternatively, knee-high boots are perfect in brown this season thanks to the likes of Dear Frances and Whistles.

Accessories are the true unsung heroes of our wardrobes during the winter and a great way to tackle the unpredictable weather that comes with it. A chic blanket scarf can be worn in any scenario – style it with a chic outfit instead of a heavy coat on warmer days or throw it on over some trusty joggers for cosy nights in on the sofa. Marks & Spencer and Uniqlo do good value fine-knit cashmere versions, while Cos and ASOS have plenty of winter-ready shades on offer.

Gloves are often a point of contention, as we’re forced to make the choice between chic leather or a cosy knit. Whatever your choice, the latest pieces are lashing in style, like these ones (£125) from Agnellee that feature on-trend leopard print.

Top it all off with a hat too but, rather than pulling on an ill-fitting beanie, go with something a little more stylish like a fuzzy bucket hat, waterproof rancher or embellished beret. Look to high street brands like Arket and Pangaia for rainhats that prevent the need for an umbrella.