Q&A: What to Wear in Boston
August 1st, 2007
Q: I am moving to Boston, MA in the fall to attend Harvard graduate school, but I have no idea how to handle the Boston weather. I have only ever known the muggy heat of the south. What are a few key pieces of clothing that I will need to survive the Boston climate while still looking stylish?
A: Boston’s climate features challenging weather patterns such as wide temperature swings in a matter of days, and unseasonal snowfalls. Summers are sunny, hot and humid, and winters are bitterly cold, windy, wet and snowy. You’re going to want to dress in layers to adjust to the changing weather conditions.
You’re accustomed to the humid, muggy summers, but you’re going to need to build your cold weather wardrobe. Here’s four cold weather essentials to add to your closet:
3/4 or Full Length Coat: Invest in one good-quality cold weather coat each year. It’s your first layer of protection against the chilly weather, and it’s the item that will make your first fashion impression. Look for a well-insulated coat that will keep you warm, but also choose one with special detailing, such as toggle closures or military-style epaulets at the shoulder line.
Thermals: Layer thermal underwear under your clothes to help you retail your body heat.
Knit Hat: A large percentage of your body heat is lost through your head–so keep your head warm with a knit hat during the icy winters. Dark colors are safe, but you might want to add special flair to your outfit with a brightly colored hat.
Boots: Fashion starts at the foot, so invest in a pair of ankle-length (or above) boots that will keep your feet warm and dry.
Have a great tip about what to wear in Boston? Share it with us in the comments!
Pictured: Burberry Wool Duffle Coat | $1,395 (preorder) at Nordstrom.
Style question? We’ve got answers. E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.
7 Comments
1. Q&A: What to W&hellip | August 1st, 2007 at 4:04 am
[…] Posted by as Uncategorized It’s your first layer of protection against the chilly weather, and it’s the item that will make your first fashion impression. Look for a well-insulated coat that will keep you warm, but also choose one with special detailing, … article continues at Trisha brought to you by FASHION and Diet […]
2. Dana | August 1st, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Which handbag should I buy what is the IT bag? Is it true bags are getting smaller so the smaller the better?
3. RobynT | August 3rd, 2007 at 12:15 am
i haven’t lived in boston, only minnesota and michigan, but here’s my two cents:
-get a coat that zips. i got a new one with buttons last year and it doesn’t keep the cold out as well. (the cold air seeps through the openings.)
-get boots with good traction for walking on snow and ice.
-i’ve never worn thermals. once you get indoors, it gets super hot. i hear some folks swear by the silk thermals from… i can’t remember the company… it’s like LLBean or something.
4. Trisha | August 5th, 2007 at 4:21 am
Thanks for sharing these cold-weather tips, Robyn!
5. Annie-san | August 5th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
From one Bostonian to a future one-
– Don’t underestimate the power of a good down coat. Luckily, you don’t have to look like Nanook of the North – there are lots of cute one out there these days.
– Silk long underwear. Warmth without the bulk.
Bring these things out slowly as the climate requires it. Read more here.
Good luck!
6. Carrie | August 6th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
One thing that’s sitting in my closet unused after my move from NY to NC: flannel pajamas. You really will want them in the dead of winter. Also, a nice fuzzy pair of slippers to wear around the house will keep your feet warm.
For outerwear, you definitely also want gloves and a scarf. Stock up on cardigan or zip-up sweaters and sweat shirts too – you can layer them under your jacket and take them off when you go inside.
7. Trisha | August 6th, 2007 at 7:29 pm
Fuzzy slippers, flannel pajamas, silk long underwear, and a good down coat–great tips. Thanks for sharing!