Encountering the cold: top 5 winter accessories

Bundling up for winter doesn’t have to compromise your power to accessorize. Think wardrobe warmth that plays up texture and patterns with accent colours and everyday casual in mind.

Try matching more nuanced items such as the colour of your gloves with your coat buttons or boots. Even matching your gloves, bag or headwear to one shade of colour from your scarf adds the right amount of coordination and balance without being too overpowering.

Alternately, experiment with a bold scarf pattern as statement wear. A casual everyday Fair Isle pattern can also add a hint of playfulness.


1. Fingerless gloves are practical when you need to check your phone on the go while achieving that everyday look. Stick with neutral mitts to maximize on the amount of casual looks. Though I would recommend switching over to leather gloves once the snow starts to hit, they’re still great for texting ease with the slight November breeze.

2. One of my best investments has got to be my American Apparel circle scarf, also known as an infinity scarf. This little number is versatile in so many different ways and makes for some insane comfort, wrapped doubly around my neck, once the frigid air gets harsher. Circle scarves also add the right amount of casualness and complete any outfit. The array of colours also allow for a lot of fun experimentation. To top it off, circle scarfs work great as a substitute hood or makeshift vest.

3. Toques are probably one of the least expensive and coziest of winter accessories. They also make great transition pieces between seasons so don’t underestimate the staying power of the toque. You’ll be especially glad you have one when that inevitable bad hair day comes around.

If you have the staple grey or black toque already, experiment with a pop of colour since nothing’s more fun than a statement hat. Winter calls for a change to a darker wardrobe, but a bright accent toque can make all the difference in leveraging the statement power of your winter ensemble. This winter, experiment with highlighter neon colours or even orange – it’s the new black after all.

4. Headbands are the perfect solution for those blustery windy days, where nothing else seems to tame the hair and keeps all those loose strands at bay. I’m not one to dress too bulky when it comes to headgear, and my knitted headband has proven to keep my ears snug and warm. Neutral colours are always a safe option, but feel free to stray towards other staple colours like cranberry to bring out the colour in your cheeks. Opt for a chic headband rather than a pair of earmuffs, and you’ll be feeling like it’s just another hair accessory!


5. The patterned tribal scarf is totally in style. It adds the right amount of playfulness and edge to any outfit. Go for a large wool scarf and you’ll find that the layering around your neck is sure to provide the perfect amount of warmth. These scarves, unlike circle scarves, also make for great shawls and can provide the perfect makeshift glam to any drab outfit. There’s the difference between fall and winter scarves, and often, it’s the thicker and woolier ones that can really accentuate a plain or dull sweater into a whole new outfit.

Though you may be tempted to match your hat, scarf and gloves to the same hue, it’s often the subtleties that will work in your favour – so cut through those grey winter skies with rich colours and textures that add intrigue to your winter look.

accessories, gloves, headband, scarf, winter

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Journal, Queen's University - Since 1873




© All rights reserved. | Powered by Digital Concepts

Back to Top
Skip to content