Clothing for the short days around the winter solstice
Short answer: Around the winter solstice on 21 December the days are at their shortest, and many people spend most of the day in darkness or artificial light. Comfortable clothing that works all day, and good habits around light and sleep, make this period easier.
The shortest day of the year
The winter solstice falls around 21 December. In Copenhagen the sun rises just before nine and sets just before four, so there are only about seven hours of daylight. In northern Jutland the day is even shorter. After that the tide turns, and the days slowly grow longer, at first by only a few minutes a day. For many people it is a relief to know that the darkest point has been reached, even though the real cold often only arrives in January and February.
Make the most of the daylight
When daylight is short, it is worth using it well. Take a walk in the middle of the day if you can, even when it is grey. Daylight outdoors is far stronger than light indoors and helps the body keep its daily rhythm. Sit close to a window when you work. If you notice that the darkness is strongly affecting your mood or energy, talk to your doctor. It is common, and help is available for those who need it.
Clothing that works all day
During the short days many people spend more time at home, and clothing that is comfortable from morning to evening is welcome. Loungewear means soft sets that feel like clothing for home but look neat enough for a video call or a quick trip out of the door. See bamboo loungewear for women. Viscose made from bamboo has a natural drape and feels smooth against the skin, so it is pleasant to wear for many hours at a time.
A shirt as an extra layer
A soft shirt is a versatile piece in December. It can be worn on its own in a warm house, open over a top as a light layer, or under a knit when it is cold. It looks a little smarter than a jumper and works both at work and for dinner. See bamboo shirt for women. Choose a fabric that does not crease much, so it looks neat all day long, from the morning meeting to the evening meal.
Sleep in the dark period
The darkness makes it easy to feel tired early in the evening, but it can shift your sleep. Try to keep fixed times for going to bed and getting up. Dim the lights in the last hour before bed, and avoid screens. In the morning, a wake up light can help some people get going. Keep the bedroom cool, even when it is cold outside, and let the duvet and your sleepwear provide the warmth you need through the night.
The wardrobe for the rest of winter
After the solstice there are still two or three months of cold ahead. It is a good time to check whether your wardrobe has what it needs. Do you have enough warm layers, soft pieces for home and something to sleep in? If something is missing, you can see whether the sale for women has basics you know you will wear for the rest of the winter. It is better to buy a few pieces that get used than many that do not.
Frequently asked questions
When is the winter solstice
Around 21 December. It is the shortest day of the year, and after that the days slowly get longer.
How many hours of daylight are there at the winter solstice in Denmark
About seven hours in Copenhagen and a little less in northern Jutland.
What can you do about tiredness in the dark season
Get out into daylight in the middle of the day, keep regular bedtimes and dim the lights in the evening. Talk to your doctor if tiredness strongly affects daily life.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
