As the crisp autumn air sets in, it’s important to adjust your wardrobe accordingly. A few weeks ago, I stepped outside for my usual morning jog, and the chill hit me immediately. It was clear that the warm days of summer were over, and I had to head back inside to grab an extra layer. The cold weather is definitely here, and it’s time to rethink how we dress for it.
By midday, I found myself relaxing at a coffee shop, chatting with a good friend. The cold was still there, but I had layered up properly. A cozy dark brown wool zip-up sweater paired perfectly with my light blue dress shirt, offering just the right amount of warmth and comfort for the day.
While we’re still in the early days of October, many guys are making the mistake of dressing as if it’s still summer. Simply swapping out shorts for jeans doesn’t cut it. As we head into autumn, it’s important to give our bodies the warmth they need, particularly for the upper body, which is more sensitive to the cold. You’ll want to add at least two to three layers to stay comfortable.
Layering for the Cold
A well-rounded autumn outfit should include at least three layers: a shirt or t-shirt underneath, followed by a thicker wool or cotton layer (think cardigans, turtlenecks, or zip-up sweaters), and then a jacket or blazer on top. A scarf is also a great option if you want to add extra warmth and style.
The key is to make sure these layers not only provide warmth but also match in a way that feels cohesive. When dressing for autumn, warmth should be your top priority. That means choosing fabrics like wool and thicker cotton, which will keep you insulated without leaving you feeling too hot or uncomfortable.
If you’ve taken advantage of post-winter sales, now is the perfect time to pull out those wool coats and thicker sweaters. If you haven’t, don’t worry—there are still plenty of stylish options available, although you may need to invest a bit more.
Styling Tips for Autumn
Turtlenecks
The turtleneck is making a comeback and has been updated for the modern man. Gone are the bulky, itchy versions your grandmother might have knit for you. Now, you can find sleek turtlenecks made from thinner wool or cotton that offer both warmth and style. Layer a t-shirt or an undershirt beneath for added insulation.
When wearing a turtleneck, skip the dress shirt or scarf—both will cause discomfort. The shirt collar will feel awkward underneath the turtleneck, and the scarf won’t provide additional warmth for your neck, as the turtleneck is already doing that job.
Scarves
I recently spent time searching for a new scarf and nearly bought one I liked until I checked the fabric. Unfortunately, most of the scarves I found were made of more than 50% synthetic fibers, which was a dealbreaker for me. The right scarf should feel soft and comfortable against your skin, not scratchy or irritating.
When selecting a scarf, avoid the common black-and-white checked patterns; they’re overdone and lack individuality. Instead, go for scarves with higher-quality fabric and weave. Make sure the material isn’t too synthetic—anything more than 10% polyester will irritate your neck over time.
Hats and Caps
A great way to keep warm during autumn is with a hat. A flat cap or fedora not only adds style but also helps trap heat that would otherwise escape from the top of your head. Just be sure to remove your hat when you enter indoor spaces out of courtesy.
Switch to Overcoats
As temperatures drop, it’s time to retire lighter jackets and switch to heavier overcoats. Dressing for extra warmth is nothing to be ashamed of—it’s better to be prepared than shiver through the day. Wearing too few layers can leave a bad impression and, most importantly, make you uncomfortable.
Wrap-Up
Autumn is a season that requires thoughtful layering and the right choice of fabrics. With the right clothing, you can stay warm and still look stylish. Embrace cozy, stylish pieces like turtlenecks, scarves, and wool coats, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your autumn wardrobe. Let me know your favorite cold-weather garments and how you stay warm in style during the fall months.
