It's 8°, grey, and that fine drizzle that doesn't quite need an umbrella but definitely ruins your hair. It's one of the most common days of a British autumn, and one of the hardest to dress for. Too cold for a light jacket, not cold enough for your biggest coat, and damp enough that suede stays in the wardrobe. Here's how I like to dress for it, and a few ideas to make it your own.
Layer Level 4/5: coat weather
On We Style The Weather, 8° and drizzle sits at Layer Level 4 out of 5. That means a proper coat, ideally one that can handle a bit of rain, over a warm knit. You won't need thermals or your heaviest puffer, but you'll want something cosy at your neck and something on your feet that doesn't mind puddles. The trick on a day like this is a water-resistant outer layer, so everything underneath can be soft and comfortable.
1. The classic trench, layered up
A trench is made for this weather. On its own it's too light at 8°, so the trick is what goes underneath. A chunky knit adds the warmth, and straight-leg jeans and leather ankle boots keep it easy. Belt the trench for shape, or wear it open with a big scarf.
2. The wool coat and a slip skirt
For days when you want to feel a little more dressed up. A long wool coat over a slip skirt or midi with tights, with a fine knit tucked in and knee-high boots, so no skin is left out in the damp. It works for the school run and lunch with a friend.
3. The quilted jacket, weekend-ready
When you're out walking, a quilted jacket is lighter than a coat but still warm, and it shrugs off drizzle. Wear it over a hoodie or a sweatshirt with dark jeans and waterproof boots or wellies, and add a roomy tote for everything else.
Small things that help
- Skip the suede. Leather, wool and waxed cotton cope with drizzle far better.
- Cover your neck. A big scarf or a roll neck makes 8° feel a few degrees warmer.
- Choose ankle-length or tucked-in. Wide hems that touch the ground soak up puddles.
- Pick a bag with a zip, so a sudden shower doesn't reach your phone.
- Check the "feels like". Wind can make 8° feel nearer 5°, so add a layer if it's breezy.
Same weather, different style
There's no single right way to dress for a drizzly 8° day. These are just a few ideas. For more, open We Style The Weather on a grey morning and you'll see your own forecast, your Layer Level, and how other people are dressing for the same weather. Then you decide what feels like you.
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