Clothing for a late spring
Short answer: When spring arrives late, April and May can bring cold mornings, a cool wind and sudden warm hours around midday. Your clothing needs to keep up with big swings in temperature over the course of a single day.
When spring is slow to arrive
In Denmark spring can drag on when cold air from the north and east lingers. The sea around the country is still cold after winter, and it keeps coastal areas in particular cool well into May. The sun is higher in the sky, so it can feel warm in a sheltered spot while the wind is bitingly cold. Nights can still bring frost. As a result, you often leave home in the morning wearing a jacket and come back in the afternoon with it over your arm.
Shed layers as the day goes on
A late spring calls for clothing that is easy to put on and take off. A thin jacket or windproof shell on the outside, a soft mid layer and a light top underneath give you plenty of options. In the morning you wear everything, and when the sun comes out you remove the jacket. Choose layers that do not take up much space, so they fit in a bag. That is far more practical than trying to guess the right outfit for the whole day first thing in the morning.
Sweatwear as a mid layer
Sweatwear makes a good mid layer in the changing season, because it is soft, warm enough for cool hours and not too heavy when the weather turns milder. Bamboo sweatwear is smooth on the inside and feels pleasant against the skin. A sweatshirt can be worn under a light jacket in the morning and on its own later in the day. Sweatpants suit days at home and walks where you want freedom of movement. This is clothing made for the many days when the weather cannot make up its mind.
A look at Scandinavian everyday wear
The Swedish brand Resteröds has made everyday clothing and underwear for many years and also uses viscose made from bamboo. Take a look at Resteröds to get a sense of the simple Nordic style, where basic garments are designed to be worn every day. In a late spring it is precisely these basics that work hardest, because they sit closest to the body and have to perform in both cold wind and sunshine. Choose fits that allow you to move freely through the day.
Underwear that keeps up with the weather
When the temperature keeps shifting, you sweat more easily at some points and feel chilly at others. Underwear is the first layer and therefore has a big effect on comfort. Bamboo panties are soft and absorb moisture, which is welcome when you go from a cool wind into a warm bus or a sunny office. Choose a fit that sits well without digging in, and change every day. Viscose underwear is best washed at 40 degrees and left to air dry.
Small things that make a big difference
In a late spring it is often the small things that save the day. A scarf you can take off, a hat in your pocket for the morning walk and socks that are not too thick. Check the forecast, but expect it to change. Keep an eye on the wind, as it often affects how cold you feel more than the temperature itself does. If in doubt, carry one layer too many in your bag rather than one too few.
Frequently asked questions
Why is spring often cold along the coasts
The sea is still cold after winter and cools the air along the coast. That is why it can be several degrees colder by the water than further inland.
Which mid layer works best in the changing season
Soft sweatwear or a thin knit are good choices. They keep you warm in cool hours and are easy to take off when it gets milder.
How do I avoid sweating in spring weather
Wear several thin layers and take them off before you get too warm. A base layer that absorbs moisture makes it more comfortable.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
