Warm offices in winter and layers you can take off
Short answer: In winter many people go from frost and wind outside into offices heated to 22 or 23 degrees. The result is sweaty mornings and cold rides home. Layers that are easy to take off and put back on are the simplest answer, and they need very little planning once you have the right pieces.
The gap between outside and inside
A winter day in Denmark can bring minus two degrees and a damp wind outdoors, while the office is warm and dry. If you dress for the journey, you overheat inside, and if you dress for the office, you freeze on the way. Many people end up sweating in a thick jumper all day long. The answer is to split your clothing into layers, each with its own job, so you can adjust as the day changes.
The base layer
The innermost layer should be thin and move moisture away from the skin. This is the layer you wear all day, so it has to be comfortable. Viscose from bamboo, merino wool and thin cotton are all common choices. A thin T-shirt or top under your shirt lets you remove a jumper without sitting in something too flimsy. Choose a fit that does not pull when you sit for long periods at a desk.
The mid layer
The mid layer is the one you take off when you arrive. A shirt, a thin knit or a cardigan are good options, because they look tidy on their own. A bamboo shirt for men can work as a mid layer over a T-shirt and be hung over the back of your chair if the room gets warm. Avoid thick jumpers that leave you in something too casual for a meeting once they come off.
The outer layer and the journey
The outer layer protects against wind and rain. A jacket that can hang in the cloakroom, and a hat and scarf that fit in your bag, make things easy. If you cycle, remember that you warm up on the way, so it can help to start out slightly cool. Consider changing your base layer if you arrive very sweaty, and keep a spare top at work for those days when the ride is harder than expected.
Dry air and concentration
Warm offices often have dry air in winter. You can feel it in your eyes, skin and throat by the afternoon. Drink water through the day and take short breaks where you walk around. If it is possible, open a window briefly to air the room. Many people find they concentrate better when they are not too warm. If you have ongoing discomfort, talk to your doctor rather than putting up with it.
At home in the evening
After a long day in warm, dry air, it is pleasant to change into something soft at home. Many people put on homewear as soon as they walk through the door. For the night, a light fabric is often better than a heavy one, because the bedroom is usually cooler than the rest of the home. Have a look at sleepwear for ideas. If you have different needs in bed, bamboo split sheets can suit a bed with two separate bases.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear in a warm office in winter
A thin base layer, a mid layer you can remove, and a jacket for the journey.
Why do I sweat at work when it is cold outside
You are often dressed for the cold outdoors. Take the mid layer off when you arrive.
Which fabric works best as a base layer
A thin fabric that moves moisture away, such as viscose from bamboo, merino wool or thin cotton.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
