There’s been tension between fashion versus function for the longest time, but who says you can’t have both? Here’s how you can stay as warm (and dry) as possible during the winter season in the UAE.
Boots
Boots are a staple for rain and winter in general. The rain has been popping in and out so you need to be prepared for when she unpredictably visits yet again. Firstly, no velvet. There’s no way your velevt boots can survive the rain in Dubai with all the sand and dirt floating around. Keep those safe and indoors whilst you bring out all-things leather! Patent leather boots are here for the win this season; so strut around town in those, all while keeping your feet warm and dry. You get to play in the rain and besides, they’re easy to clean so it’s a win-win situation.
Leggings
While they have always been used in the fashion world, leggings are all the rage now more than ever. It’s comfy, warm, comes in a bunch of colours, and it’s cute with any oversized sweater, and most of all it pairs best with your boots.
Jackets
Jackets are the perfect addition to make your regular outfits winter ready. Leather jackets are just the right thing for a Dubai winter, throw it over any old top you have and you’ve got an automatically styled look. The best colours are black, grey, navy, tan/brown, and white.
Umbrellas
Of course, the best thing to protect you from the rain is an umbrella. Get a cute pocket size one in your favourite colour that fits into your bag and stay dry.
Head gear
Winter in Dubai is a windy one. So a cute hat, a beanie, or even a cap can keep your hair down and cover your ears. And hey, if it starts o drizzle, you’re kind of safe, at least for a while.
Bags
When caught in the rain, it’s difficult to manage your grip on a hand bag, it’s best to strap it across your body and be on the move. Therefore, a crossbody bag or a bag with a long strap is the way to go. This also stresses how important zippers and flaps are. It’s a good time to have trust issues, because you don’t want to let that rain in. Even with the strong winds, all it takes is one wrong turn for something to fall out.
Stockings
It’s Dubai after all, so it isn’t even that cold. Don’t put away your cute short dresses and skirts just yet, pair them with some stockings and be on your way.
Capes
Let’s be honest, of course we need clothing to protect you from the rain and wind outside, but also from the A/C indoors. A good cover-up can be just as good as a jacket, but maybe your jacket doesn’t go with everything, that’s when a good scarf-type cape comes to the rescue and completes the look.
Scarves
Bulky scarves are in, you can wrap it around your neck various ways and call it a day, or open it up and wear it like a cape. Either way they’re cute and warm and you can put it over just about any outfit.
Loafers
So maybe because it isn’t actually that cold outside, you might want to skip the boots for those sneaky sunny days and wear something more breathable; loafers. Grab some chic leather loafers and hit the streets, they’re cute, still covering your feet and comfortable to walk in.
Sweaters
Strong winds call for strong clothing. You’ve got an excuse to bulk up and wear those heavy sweaters out! There are way too many different kinds of sweaters for you not to be able to incorporate it into your everyday attire. Don’t get it wrong, sweaters aren’t just for those comfy-casual days, there are ways to dress sweaters up, with all the shiny-shimmery sweaters out there and a cute A-line skirt with stockings or some statement jewellery, you’re good to go. Try a turtle neck under a dress, or a crop jumper over a dress. It’s your time to throw on the knit wear with some long sleeves -great to keep your hands warm.
—Shreya Pilo is an intern at Gulf News.
