The wardrobe on the first cold days

Short answer: The first cold days arrive before the heating is turned up and before the winter coat has been found. A thin base layer is the quickest solution, because it adds warmth without bulk under the clothes you already wear.

The body needs to adjust

The first ten degrees in autumn feel colder than the same ten degrees in March. The body has got used to summer and has not yet adapted to the cold. That is quite normal and passes within a couple of weeks. Until then it is worth dressing a little warmer.

The base layer

A thin inner layer warms more than an extra jumper on top, because it lies close to the skin and holds warmth where it is produced. It should move moisture away, so you do not get cold when you stand still. Read more about the bamboo vest as a base layer.

The legs

Legs are what people forget. A thin layer under your trousers often makes more difference than a thicker jacket, especially if you cycle, wait for the bus or walk the dog. It adds almost no bulk and works under both jeans and work trousers. See bamboo long johns.

The feet

Cold feet are the most common complaint in October. Summer sneakers and short socks are no longer enough, and feet feel the cold from the ground first. Switch to a sock that goes a little higher and moves moisture away, so the foot stays dry. See bamboo socks for men.

For women

The advice applies in the same way for women. A thin vest under a blouse or knit adds warmth without changing how the clothes fit. Choose a close fitting style so it does not form folds. See the matching pieces in bamboo vest for women.

Indoors

If the heating is not on yet, it can be cold indoors in the morning and evening. An extra jumper at home is the simplest answer, and it comes off once the living room has warmed up. See sweatwear for soft jumpers that are good to wear at home.

Neck and wrists

Heat escapes quickly at the neck and wrists. A scarf and a top with long sleeves that reach over the wrist make a noticeable difference on the first cold mornings. These are small things, but they are easy to take off when the sun comes out at midday.

The coat can wait

A thicker coat is rarely the answer on the first cold days. It gets too warm by midday and is awkward to carry around. A thin inner layer and a light jacket on top cover most days in October, and the winter coat can stay on its hook a little longer.

Bring out the winter clothes

It is a good idea to bring out winter clothes before the cold properly sets in. Check whether they smell musty after summer storage, and wash them if needed. Then you are ready when the temperature drops further. More on the topic in bamboo clothing for cold days.

Washing

Base layers are worn close to the skin and need frequent washing. Wash at 40 degrees with a mild detergent, and skip fabric softener, which makes the fabric worse at moving moisture. Let the clothes air dry. More tips in the washing guide.

Frequently asked questions

Why do the first cold days feel worst?

Because the body has not yet adjusted to the temperature. After summer, ten degrees feels colder than the same ten degrees in spring, but that passes after a couple of weeks.

What helps most?

A thin base layer underneath, on the legs too. It lies close to the skin, holds warmth and moves moisture away, so you do not get cold when you stand still.