In my winter wardrobe with Mama

By Temo Mpodi

It’s crazy how you stay a baby to your parents, whether you reach your 20’s, your 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, as long as Mama is there, she is going to make sure she checks in with everything, including your wardrobe. I find my mom’s little guidance from ages ago helpful and still stuck with me, and she continues to remind me of it every now and then. Knowing the Cape Town winter, she recently called me to check on me keeping warm. Here’s a few winter wardrobe essentials that combine practicality with style from my mom that might work for you too. Hello ladies!

1. Scarves, hats, and gloves                                                                                                  

“Do you have new warm gloves ready?” she asked. I said yes, but I wasn’t telling the truth. Accessories not only keep us warm but also add a touch of style to our winter outfits, more especially if it’s a set with the same colour. Invest in a variety of scarves, hats, and gloves. Wool is actually great for warmth, but faux fur adds a luxurious touch. Use them to compliment your overall look.

2. Cosy loungewear                                                                                                            

Winter is a season for staying up indoors. Mama always believed in buying me a collection of comfortable loungewear items that don’t sacrifice style. She believed in buying a couple of tracksuits, and add polo-necks to them.  Think soft fleece type, wool, and also oversized hoodies and plush robes. This way, you can stay warm and stylish even when you’re just lounging around the house.

3. Winter Dress

A winter staple that never goes out of fashion. For a fun twist, you can also pair your dress with leggings and tights, patterned or textures, so much the better!  Choose neutral colours like black, navy, or grey, which are versatile and timeless, they go a long way. Add a belt to help define your waist and add some structure to bulkier winter dresses.

4. Coats

My mom was and is still the Queen of coats. I have actually fought with her coats, and I managed to walk away with one. Just one, imagine! She believes in having a variety of coloured coats, and owning at least two that are black. She believes it’s easy to layer warm things under a coat and not look crazy. Layering is key to staying warm in winter. Stock up on long-sleeved tees, turtlenecks, or jerseys under that coat, and the cold will never know you.

5. Boots

Winter faves! If they aren’t stylish, just make sure that even in their simplest form it’s a good pair of boots. They are perfect to keep your feet warm while looking good. Mama always recommended having at least three pairs. I think I have run with that. Just make sure they are different, and fit your everyday lifestyle.

Mama’s tips

1.Quality over quantity.

2.Take proper care of your clothes.

3.Keep clean even during winter.