Looking to stay warm and cozy as the temperatures dip below 60? Sure, it’s Southern California, and you could probably get away with just wearing shorts the whole year – it’s even a tradition for some families to go to the beach for Christmas or New Year’s. But that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to stay cozy especially if you end up traveling outside the Golden State or head to the mountains. So without further ado, here’s some fabrics to keep you toasty in whatever weather you consider “cold”:
Wool
You may have heard us boasting the qualities of wool in our newsletters or email – and for good reason. Wool is known for its warmth and breathability that keep you warm in cold weather and cool in warm weather. It’s even naturally water resistant! In addition to making a great sweater, wool is an excellent base layer. However, those who have inherited or tried on a scratchy wool sweater will know not all wool is created equal or equally soft. Look for merino wool or wool with micron length of 17 to 23 and you should be warm and toasty in no time.
Fleece
Synonymous with keeping warm in cold weather, fleece is a lightweight fabric often made from polyester to trap heat that is great for on-the-go warmth. Unlike wool, fleece isn’t as great when wet unless treated (though it is fast drying), so make sure you’ve got a waterproof shell to keep you warm if you plan on being out in the snow or rain for long.
Down
While you should certainly avoid getting it wet, down is one of evolution’s greatest insulators. There’s a reason, down is used for cozy blankets, puffy snow jackets, and the warmest sleeping bags. Down comes from goose feathers that have unique properties that trap warm pockets. Down will often come with a feather count, the higher the count, the warmer the down. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions, store it with lots of room for it to expand, and bring your down to Flair so we can make sure it keeps you warm for seasons to come.
Cashmere
On the more luxurious side of winter fabrics, we have cashmere. Softer and warmer than even the nicest merino wool, cashmere earns its place as a luxury fabric. Treated with the proper care and cleaning, a piece of cashmere can last you decades thereby earning its value with its longevity, softness and warmth.
Cotton
A universally flexible fabric, arguably made for Southern California winters. While cotton can be made thin for the summertime, it can also be made thick for the winter months – just don’t get it wet. Cotton’s strength lies in its breathability and comfort, whereas its weakness is in how much it absorbs moisture, so just be careful if it’s wet outside or consider wearing a wicking layer underneath if you’ll be getting sweaty.
Leather and Faux Leather
A classic look that’s also a great shell for cooler and especially windy weather as an insulator. Leather takes extra care but forms to your body over time. If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, faux leather can work just as well. Real or faux, leather makes for a stylish winter shell.
Fur and Faux Fur
A material used by some of our oldest ancestors, fur is a great insulator. While it’s more of a statement piece than a necessity to keep you warm, especially in Southern California, fur and faux fur will keep you warm in some of the coldest conditions – just make sure to give it the proper care.
Whatever fabric you choose to keep you toasty during the long winter – or maybe while you try to save on your heating bill, Flair has the expertise and know how to keep your garments keeping you warm for longer.
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