It can feel like there’s not a lot worth getting dressed up for in January. Around 70% of your friendship group is on a self-imposed booze ban, pay-day seems a lifetime away, and the most active contact in your inbox is HMRC reminding you to file your tax return. If you’re suffering from a serious case of wardrobe fatigue, you’re not alone.
But let’s reframe: this is also a month to get joy out of your comfiest basics. Chilly days are the perfect excuse to get layer-happy with colourful cardis and oversized jumpers. Plus, with fewer social events in the diary, you can simplify things and alternate between a small selection of mix-and-match pieces.
From updating your loungewear, to experimenting with pops of bright colour, there are all sorts of ways to boost your mood via your wardrobe this month. This is your sign to rebrand January dressing and have some fun while doing it.
Play With Colour And Texture
On grey days, wearing a brightly coloured item is a legit mood-lifter. If your wardrobe is mostly monochrome, give a vibrant pattern or block colour a try – but mix it up with neutrals you feel comfy in. Throw a printed cardigan over your everyday jeans, or wear a boldly coloured mac to brighten up a rainy afternoon. A single colourful item will transform an outfit and can make you feel more ‘put together’.
Experiment With Layering
It’s snuggle season, which means layers are your friend. Play with proportions and wear a roomy knitted polo-neck over a silky midi skirt, a combo that’s relaxed enough for a mooch around the January sales and smart enough for an impromptu dinner. Longline cardis in playful prints are similarly useful, great worn over jeans or leather leggings, or with loungewear for lazy days indoors.
Upgrade Your Loungewear
Treating yourself to spenny-looking loungewear is one of the nicest ways of embracing hibernation season. A 3-piece knitted set will give you extra warmth on cold evenings, plus the option to mix and match. Choose a drawstring waist and elasticated cuffs for maximum comfort and cosiness.
Invest In A Snuggly Coat
If you only buy one thing to in January, make it the cuddliest coat possible. The versatile and huggable teddy looks as good layered over trackies and trainers as it does with a knitted dress and boots. Colours like khaki and camel will stand the test of time and suit everyone.
Restyle Your Fave Dresses For Winter
Rekindle your love of dresses by wearing them with boots (we vote chunky or over-knee), knitted layers and a longline coat for all-over warmth. Long-sleeve, high-neck or knitted dress styles are especially practical in the colder months. If a bloat-friendly shape is in order after a month of Christmas indulgence, choose a relaxed fit like the Fifi smock.
Have Fun With Your Work Wardrobe
Your back-to-work wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you’re returning to the office or looking for WFH inspo, a statement blouse is an easy way to liven up your go-to work trousers. The spotted Ambre blouse combines a timeless print with a loose and playful shape – or go bold with the Margo blouse’s vintage-style dots.
Don’t Forget To Accessorise
This is *the* time of year to go nuts with your wardrobe ‘extras’ – from cute winter hats, scarves and gloves, to cold-weather boots. Over-knee boots are the ultimate in winter glam and – although they may be intimidating on first glances – they’re incredibly easy to wear and style. Go for a block heel and slip them over jeans for brunch, or wear with a knitted mini dress and longline coat in the evening.
