15 WINTER HOLIDAY WARDROBE ESSENTIALS
Chances are the weather is a little different to home, which is often the case when you're ditching one hemisphere for the other. Be sure to Google the weather conditions in each city, as they can vary greatly (for example, -30 in Quebec City as opposed to 6 degrees in Vancouver).
The key in creating a versatile yet stylish holiday wardrobe is to include lots of basics in a similar colour way, which can be mixed and matched. Each included piece should be able to go with (almost) everything else. I've kept this travel wardrobe fairly casual, which is perfect for day-to-day activities and exploration, though you may want to add a couple of dressier pieces. If you're anything like me, you'll probably just pick something up while you're abroad.
And so, here are my winter holiday staples:
1. Oversized coat
Choose a coat that is big enough to chuck over layers, and that could be dressed up or dressed down, depending on the occasion. I've chosen my favourite coat from Wish, which makes a statement with it's hue, yet will go with practically anything.
2. Leather biker jacket
Staple items don't come more versatile than a leather biker jacket. Whether it is worn by itself, thrown over your shoulders, tied around your waist or layered underneath a coat, do not leave your leather jacket at home.
3. Plaid shirt
A great layering piece is never left unworn, which is of course the case when it comes to oversized button-ups. Plaid is all the rage right now, though it is also a classic print. I've had this shirt for years and years, and worn it a million ways - as an open cardigan, tied around the hips or layered under a sweater.
4. Denim shirt
Another must-have wardrobe item that is easily layered and hides those not-so-pretty thermals. I've chosen an oversized patch denim shirt from Edith Boutique.
5. Striped tee
How could I not include some staple stripes? Layered under a biker jacket and coat, or worn by itself with the sleeves rolled up for those unexpected warmer days (or perhaps when the heaters are working overtime during your obligatory shopping spree).
6. Leather pants
You'll be surprised how much wear you'll get out of a pair of leather pants. While they're easily dressed up with a pair of boots (I wore mine to a 5-star restaurant in Vancouver), chuck them on with some sneakers and they're totally daytime worthy.
7. Skinny jeans
Do I have to explain why? Just make sure you pick a quality pair that you can stretch over thermals (if it will be that cold), but wont lose its shape.
8. Sweater
Wear it over a button-up shirt for some extra warmth, but just remember, the more oversized the better!
9. Large tote bag
This one is a given. I prefer to choose a bag that will fit all my carry-on needs (DSLR, laptop, books, beauty products, etc) and be perfect to trek around with me whilst exploring.
10. Fedora hat
Wear this with any outfit to add a touch of style, not to mention that it works wonders keeping snow out of your eyes (and sun!).
11. Cosy scarf
No scarf - freezing cold. Scarf - warm and cosy. You have no idea how much a scarf can make a difference to your comfort. Choose one big enough that you can wrap around your face as well for those extreme weather days. I love this plaid option via Topshop.
12. Leather gloves
Waterproof and stylish, a pair of leather gloves are a must-have. Please note that most pairs aren't terribly warm, so pick up a pair of heavy duty gloves if it's going to hit below -15.
13. Beanies
Warm head, warm heart.
14. Boots
I've proven time and time again the versatility of my heeled Topshop boots, whether you want to wear them during the day or at night.
15. Sneakers
These Nike high tops got me through some very wet and slippery snow days, thanks to a great rubber sole and leather exterior. Just make sure you spray them down with waterproofer.