The entire country has been shivering through this seemingly never-ending cold wave and while Karachi may now be experiencing a thaw in the weather, the rest of the country is just as bitterly freezing. The death toll from snow-related incidents has reached 83 as harsh weather conditions continue to wreak havoc across the nation. Emergency has been declared in the northern areas; heavy snowfall and strong winds are bringing life to a standstill. Even Karachi witnessed its coldest day in over 70 years as the mercury fell to 7 degrees, the lowest since February 11, 1950 when it dropped to 3 degrees. How can one possibly adapt to such sudden and drastic weather conditions?

Our entire lives essentially revolve around the weather outside. When it’s cold, we may choose to stay in, lazily laying on the couch with a warm blanket and a cup of chai. Warmer weather might inspire us to go to the beach with friends and afterwards, a late night ice-cream run. But in today’s chilly climate, our motivation to get anything done has been replaced by a state of inertia. The only way to get excited when there are such weather restrictions? Fashion. Autumn/Winter is generally considered as the more fashionable season worldwide as you get to experiment with different fabrics, textures and layers as opposed to stripping down as much as possible in the heat. So, the best way to combat your winter blues is turning to your wardrobe for excitement!

Let’s begin with Pakistan’s most underrated segment of winter fashion: men’s clothing and let’s just face the fact that men around us don’t really put much thought in their winter choices. We’d like the gentlemen to first turn their attention to jackets. Not just any jacket but leather vests in particular. A leather jacket can make almost anybody look attractive. While everyone else is shivering, wearing that sleek black pelt will have you feeling comfortable and adored. A stylish leather jacket and a pair of jeans create an elegant yet suave look for any evening function or even just for a night out in the city with friends. Another trend for winter 2020: turtle-necks and blazers. This look can take a man, who is willing to step out of his comfort zone, make a statement of pure style. A cream-toned wool turtleneck paired with a slick baby-blue blazer will have every other man dreaming they were as polished as you. If this look is a bit too Abercrombie and Fitch for your liking, a simple cardigan or sweater and a pair of corduroys is great for work and will even keep you cozy for an evening of partying. Try adding a chic plain or plaid scarf to the mix; one can never go wrong with a touch of winter accessory.

For all the ladies who are struggling to choose between looking good and keeping warm, we have the perfect solution for you this winter: long coats. Long-cut coats are the ideal combination of elegance and extravagance that will create the sophisticated look all women strive to achieve while also shielding you from the Arctic winds outside. Match your long-coat with a pair of knee-high boots, an affordable yet modish look that could easily be seen on the streets of Paris. An alternative to the long-coat is the cape- shawl. Modest yet modern, the cape-shawl is renowned globally for its versatility. Throw the shawl over a t-shirt with jeans, apply some mascara and foundation and you have just created the perfect everyday outfit.

Not only is the weather outside inescapable but unfortunately our homes don’t necessarily provide refuge from the chilling temperatures either; those of us in Karachi are definitely not equipped as it’s never this cold. Then how does one stay warm inside the house or when visiting a friend’s place? Slippers and shawls are the way to go. Try wearing a pair of fuzzy or soft slippers around the house; you will warm up instantly. No one wants to sit in a bulky coat while catching up with friends and relatives in the family room so wrap yourself in a shawl and all your problems are solved. Clothing wise, the best fabrics to wear in winter include khaddar, jacquard, cambric, and velvet. When shopping, keep an eye out for suits and kurtas made in these fabrics; doing so will ensure a warm, yet trendy winter season.