Written by Menswear Style in Tips & Advice on the 10th February 2025

Just because it’s getting cold outside it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your style. Keeping your wardrobe fresh in the colder months can be tricky – but it’s definitely not impossible! Styling vintage pieces for the colder, wetter months is an art form, and it doesn’t mean immediately reaching for bulky, unfashionable items in your wardrobe to stave off the chill. These are some of the top tips if you want to style vintage pieces for the winter so that you can stay warm and look great doing it.

Opt For Darker Colours & Patterns 

The winter months are the perfect time to hang up your lighter-coloured clothing and switch it out to something darker and moodier. If you’re a lover of good men’s vintage patterned shirts, try to stick to darker blues, burgundy or black rather than the lighter blues or yellows you might go for in the summer. Sticking to darker colours doesn’t just look better in the colder months, it also makes it easier for you to layer items and mix and match your clothing to keep you warm. Whether you’re going for a day out with mates or heading to the pub for a pint, opting for darker colours and patterns is always a good choice when it comes to the more bitter months of the year.

Choose Your Materials Wisely 

When it comes to the colder months, you really do need to choose your materials and fabrics wisely. Rather than going for the lighter fabrics you may have in your wardrobe in the summer, opt for thicker, warmer materials like tweed or wool. These fabrics are perfect for the colder months as they are hardy, ultra-warm and still have that vintage charm. Try to choose pieces that have a high percentage of wool or tweed for the best warmth. Tweed is a classic for the cooler months as it looks great and is moisture resistant, long-wearing and retains heat making it perfect for indoor and outdoor wear in the chillier months. 

Button-Ups Are Your Best Friend 

Buttoned shirts are a staple for vintage lovers in the winter months as they’re perfect for adding an additional layer under vests, cardigans or jackets. They’re as practical as they are stylish and they’re great for both casual and more smart occasions. Having the ability to button your shirt up all the way also adds an additional layer of protection against the chill of winter. Generally thicker and sturdier than a standard t-shirt, a good button-up is a staple for combining vintage charm with warmth in the cold weather. 

Knitwear, Knitwear, Knitwear 

There’s no way we could talk about winter essentials without mentioning the tried and true winter staple – knitwear! Winter is the perfect time to get your knits out and layer up with shirts and knits galore! Men’s knits are a staple in vintage fashion and it’s no wonder they’ve been so popular for hundreds of years. Whether you’re running errands, going for a night out or heading into the office – there really is no bad time for a knit. Layer on top of your favourite button-up or pair a vintage cardigan with your favourite vintage tee for an outfit that looks great and keeps you toasty.

Get Acquainted With Layering 

One of the most important things you can do to keep warm in winter without sacrificing your unique sense of style is to get acquainted with layering. Invest in good thermals to wear under your vintage pieces for that extra warm factor. You can also layer your favourite vintage pieces, pair vintage knitwear with a long-sleeve button-up and finish the look with your favourite vintage coat for a stylish (and most importantly warm) everyday outfit. 

Don’t Discard Your Denim 

Whilst you may be under the impression that your favourite pair of vintage jeans have to have a hiatus during winter, there are a number of tips and tricks you can implement to keep them warm all winter long. Denim isn’t just a practical choice for the cooler weather, it’s a stylish one too. We all know and love our favourite pair of jeans and incorporating vintage denim into your winter looks is a surefire way to look effortlessly cool no matter the season. If it’s a particularly chilly day, wearing a good pair of thermals under your jeans could be just what you need to keep yourself warm and look great doing it. 

Accessories Are Key 

One of the easiest ways to stay warm during winter without losing your sense of style is by incorporating accessories into your everyday looks. Scarves, hats and gloves are the perfect practical additions to any winter outfit. Driving gloves provide a vintage feel whilst keeping you warm as they are often made from leather, fine wool or tweed. Perfect for a practical vintage piece that also adds an extra layer of warmth. Wool scarves and hats are also great in the cooler months as they keep you warm and add dimension to your outfits.

Who Said Winter Outfits Had To Be Boring? 

When it comes to dressing for the cold weather, you don’t need to sacrifice your style. Incorporate these handy tips and tricks to keep your vintage aesthetic alive no matter the weather. From learning to love layering to choosing the right fabrics, our guide will have you looking and feeling your best all winter long!

Opt For Darker Colours & Patterns, Choose Your Materials Wisely, Button-Ups Are Your Best Friend, and Get Acquainted With Layering.