Layering for Cold Weather and a Hot Commute
Layering For The Commute
Every workplace is different, and your commute outfit should reflect that. Some offices demand sharp tailoring; others are fine with smart-casual. Either way, you need to stay comfortable as you move between icy streets, packed trains, and temperamental office heating.
The trick is building warmth that breathes. Thick, bulky layers trap heat but can’t release it is the quickest way to arrive at your desk hot and flustered. Instead, think light, breathable fabrics you can easily remove or adapt throughout the day.
If you wear a base layer, make sure it’s one that regulates temperature. Merino wool is ideal because, unlike synthetic fabrics, it wicks away moisture while keeping warmth in, so you stay dry even when the train’s packed.
And don’t forget your footwear. Thin leather shoes might look smart, but they won’t keep the cold out. A good pair of wool socks is non-negotiable, and if your office allows it, winter boots will make the commute far more bearable.
Formal Businesswear
When dressed for a formal day, whether it's client meetings, boardrooms, or office presentations, layering has to stay discreet. You can’t exactly peel off a gilet mid-meeting, so the goal is subtle insulation that works beneath a suit.
A good rule of thumb: replace your waistcoat with a fine-gauge wool jumper. It adds warmth without bulk, and you can take it off quickly once indoors. Merino wool is a great option as it's breathable, lightweight, and keeps its shape all day.
Beyond that, it’s all about outerwear. A tailored overcoat, scarf, and leather gloves are all you really need to stay warm while looking professional. And yes, a wool hat is perfectly acceptable. Just take it off when you step through the office door.
In formalwear, the only removable layer is your coat, so what’s underneath matters. Choose warm, breathable materials that regulate your temperature rather than trap it.
And if you want something in-between, something that bridges the gap between outerwear and tailoring, a gilet works beautifully. It’s surprisingly versatile, looks sharp under an overcoat, and keeps your core warm on even the coldest days.
Smart Casual
If your dress code’s a little more relaxed, you have far more flexibility. Start with a casual shirt and fine-knit jumper, then add a blazer or overcoat. Once on the train, shed a layer or two and still look put-together.
The key is not to overdo it. Too many thin layers can feel restrictive, especially when you’ve got nowhere to stash them mid-commute. Instead, aim for three layers max: a shirt, a jumper, and a jacket or coat.
When it comes to fabrics, go for a mix of cotton, wool, and cashmere. They're all breathable and durable. Avoid synthetic fibres like nylon and polyester, which tend to overheat quickly.
Layering Accessories
Accessories do more than keep you warm, they complete your look. A well-chosen scarf or pair of gloves adds polish and practicality.
For winter commuting, opt for wool or cashmere-blend scarves. They’re soft, warm, and elevate even the simplest outfit. Leather gloves lined with cashmere or fleece offer warmth without bulk, while a wool beanie adds a relaxed touch for more casual days.
If you’re investing in just a few accessories this season, keep them tonal; navy, charcoal, and camel go with almost everything.
Discover the collection: Gloves & Scarves
The Right Knitwear For Layering And Travel
Knitwear is the backbone of good layering. It’s the mid-layer that keeps you warm without overheating, and makes it easy to adapt throughout the day.
At T.M.Lewin, we design our knits in fine-gauge merino wool for precisely this reason. It’s warm, soft, and naturally breathable. Perfect under tailoring or over shirts.
When layering for a commute, rotate between:
- Crew necks: The warmest option, great under coats.
- V-necks: Easy to remove and ideal over a collared shirt.
- Quarter-zips: The best of both worlds. Adjust the zip for airflow when the train heats up.
Explore the full range: Men’s Knitwear
Staying Warm In The Office
We’ve all been there, coat off, scarf off, and still shivering under flickering fluorescent lights. Or worse, stuck in a warm office in a heavy jumper.
The answer lies in smart layering under your suit. A merino base layer or light cotton T-shirt worn beneath your shirt helps regulate temperature, keeping you warm outside, but cool once you’re in the office.
Cotton underlayers also wick away moisture, preventing those tell-tale commuter creases and keeping your shirt fresh. Avoid synthetic base layers, as nylon and spandex tend to trap heat and don’t wear well under tailoring.
If the office is truly cold, consider a high-quality wool suit or even tweed. Both hold warmth beautifully without compromising structure.
Cohesive Warm Outfits
Of course, practicality doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. Layering well is also about how it looks together.
Stick to a cohesive colour palette; navy, charcoal, camel, and deep green are timeless winter tones that pair effortlessly with most suits and coats.
When layering, think about what your outfit looks like with and without your outerwear. If you remove your jumper or coat, your shirt and blazer should still look intentional.
Ultimately, confidence comes from feeling put together, and nothing does that better than layers that look and feel right.
In Summary
Layering through autumn and winter is an art. One that combines warmth, breathability, and style. Whether it’s your merino knitwear, tailored outerwear, or finishing accessories, each layer should have a purpose and fit seamlessly into your day.
So next time you brave the cold commute, remember: smart layers keep you comfortable, confident, and composed. From train to office and everywhere in between.
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