There’s nothing better than sweater weather. Strolling along the streets snuggled up in your soft over-sized jumper as a chilly breeze grazes your face — it’s the perfect way to herald the holiday season. We know we’re indulging in a daydream: cool weather in sweltering Singapore is as rare as a unicorn. But that doesn’t mean we can’t pull off winter wear here. You can — with a little creativity. We’ve gathered a few neat tricks you can use to embrace Fall fashion in a Summer climate. You’re welcome.
A pullover is a classic Fall season staple, so you can’t go wrong with this piece. Pair cotton-blend sweaters with denim shorts or mini skirts for a more casual approach. To inject some fun in your outfit, get cute pullovers that have interesting details so you don’t look too basic.
This is the season to cover up. But when it comes to our tropical climate, bundling up from top to toe will not serve you well. Here’s a compromise: go for a matching shirt-pants coordinate made from material that is soft and billowy. It’s stylish and you get to embrace your long-sleeved pieces without breaking a sweat — the bouffant texture of the outfit will allow your skin to breathe. The best of both worlds.
Earlier this year, all our dreams came true when Singapore was hit by a five-day cold spell with temperatures dipping as low as 21.2 deg C. While we’re hoping for another miracle, it’s more than likely this occurrence will not happen again in a long while. So instead of wool, go for outerwear that is a little more weather-appropriate, such as a cotton-blend trench coat, or a lightweight blazer.
Layering is an invaluable skill to have, because you have the flexibility of shedding your outer layers when you emerge from freezing air-conditioning to face Singapore’s blazing hot weather. But make sure you don’t go overboard with the layers — a shirt and a chunky knit topped off with a coat is just a huge no-no. Instead, go light: don an over-sized shirt over a simple cotton tee and seal the look with a neat pair of trousers. Or pair a poncho with a cropped top and midi skirt. Keep your garments up to a maximum of 3 so you can look hot but keep cool.
While sock booties and thigh-high boots are lust-worthy, they’re not the most practical pairs of shoes to be teetering around in sunny Singapore. Go for a cooler alternative: ankle boots. Way more comfortable and no less edgy, they’re a perfect compromise for the Singapore fashionista. Pair these with a cute mini dress or a floaty maxi, and throw on a leather jacket for extra sass.
Beanies are perfect for embracing the Fall/Winter season, but they are weaved in a knit pattern that traps heat — which means they aren’t practical for Singapore’s humidity. Instead of suffocating your forehead and triggering unwanted breakouts, opt for wool-blend hats such as berets or fedoras that sit comfortably on top of your head. A plaid beret can be a cute statement piece when you dress it down with monochrome colours. Or pair a navy floppy felt hat with a cropped top and camel blazer for a more stylish flair.