I'm at college in Wisconsin. We get FREEZING winters here and I'm forced to be outside a lot. Though my style isn't "true vintage" per se, I have some tips: *Get yourself some THICK stockings. No backseamed sheers here, you WILL get frostbite within 5 minutes. I prefer cotton because wool can be too hot in heated buildings, but if you're out all day, definitely get one or two pairs of wool too. They're very Wartime 1940s and can look super cute if you do it right. *Merino or cashmere sweaters. Thrift them. Live in them. Be a Sweater Girl. Get cozy. *Wool felt circle skirts. Same as above. *Slips, petticoats, and thermals are 100% necessary in winter. Buy them, make them, whatever. That extra layer of warmth is so important. Indera sells really nice, really cheap 100% cotton slips, undershirts, and leggings, though nylon or rayon is fine too. Layer UNDER your stockings. Working women have done this for generations, even if in all the photos they look freezing in their sheers and heels--it's not necessarily representative of reality. *Boots. Bean Boots have been around since forever and they're still the best, though Emu and Doc Martens also have some great winter styles that look vintagey enough. Stay warm and look cute, friends!!!
I live in Finland and I love wool tights in the winter. If they aren't too thick, they strike that beautiful balance of keeping you warm when outside, without boiling you when you're inside. Also I fully agree with the need for thermals, even a thermal tank top, which adds zero bulk, will go a long way to keeping you toasty warm.
Also, if you absolutely must wear pumps instead of wool-lined boots, buy yourself a pair of wool insoles. Instead of modern thermal wear, thin merino wool undies are great, too. And they’re soft and non-scratchy (my mother tells me that was not the case when she was growing up - she was born in 1943 and has refused to wear wool since her teenage years. 😉)
I live in a subtropical climate so it rarely is cold enough to even wear a wool coat or leather jacket let alone all these layers. I wanted to make some but out of more breathable, lighter fabric. Probably a cotton. It’s kind of a shame though because I love coats
Here are some tips I have: 1. Wear sneaky layers underneath. At winter, I wear leggings or tights underneath pants. Layering is a good choice in general. 2. Unfortunately, vintage hats tend to be more for accessorizing than for practicality (they don't cover ears or hair, etc). My tip is to wear a babushka scarf. This is actually historically accurate and it can protect your hairstyle, as well as your neck and ears (which can hurt, if cold wind and snow/rain gets to them). 3. Wear wool socks inside of winter boots. Bring a pair of shoes to change into once you're inside if it's possible. 4. Invest in nice, warming gloves. Nobody likes to have freezing hands. 5. Above all, value practicality and safety. It can be annoying to have to wear something very ugly, for the sake of it, but that will always be better than risking your health and safety.
I'm somehow more partial to off-white tights with my vintage looks in winter. I find that they make my outfits pop more. Do they end up an unwashable-street-mud-splattered-mess by the end of winter? Oh yes they do. For extra warmth I typically layer an off-white knee high sock on top - the patterned ones truly invoke the 40s as someone mentioned before. If it's extra cold I will even put a pair of short ones on top cutely sticking out from my booties. Also, don't forget fleece or wool insoles!
I just found a 100% wool 80's-does-50's coat that looks like a cape at a vintage pop-up for like, $30 this summer. I can't wait to wear it because I've been looking for a coat for years and this one makes me feel like a professor at Hogwarts.
I have been watching all your videos and continue to be impressed by your style. I had a wool dress and coat custom-made in Greece in 1960 ( yes that is not a typo), and the price was $5 each for the professional seamstress. She worked from her own pattern based on a magazine photo I showed her. The dress had a jewel-neckline. long-sleeves and slightly full skirt-deep red with a discreet floral pattern. The coat was a pale mauve mohair. Beautiful work. Long gone but I could still draw them if need be.
Thank you! The custom dressmaker sounds like a dream and the items sound super lovely indeed! One of my friends husband was telling me about a little tailors shop they found in Rome where he had a coat custom fitted, so apparently it is still possible out there!
I've always found to tackle the UK's wet and cold autumn/winter that transferring to 40's style wool trousers (ideally lined if you can find them) with long socks underneath and swapping out heels for leather brogues (try and get them with thicker souls that are non slip) is a good starting point. I also like to pair that with a collared shirt with a sleeveless jumper and even a cami underneath (if it's particularly icy), that will keep you very warm indeed! I tend to avoid wider skirts (circle skirts or wide A-Lines) as cold breezes up your legs can really make you feel the cold! Tighter pencil skirts with tights keep you more sealed in, as it were, and cetainly keep you warmer in the cold months.
You know what's funny, of all the things one might think I had given my love for tights... I have no basic pair of black tights. I've got every color of the rainbow and some lace tights, but no black. What. Also THAT FIRST WOOL DRESS I AM DYING. SWOON.
some tips from me, as a person that experiences some really shitty windy/ snowy winters in michigan, usa: 1- tights are great but fleece lined is even better! super soft, comfortable, and generally pretty high waisted. 2.-always dress in multiple layers, ive found if you keep the bottom layers that are next to skin natural fabrics (like cotton or silk) and the upper layers synthetic (like rayon or acrylic) it helps trap in the heat generated by my body and keep me super warm because while natural fabrics are breathable synthetics generally are not. 3-if you live in a pretty windy area i would opt instead for a leather or synthetic coat as wool doesn't have much wind resistance (unless you line it with silk or a thinsulate). 4- if its bone chilling cold and you have a thick skirt, wear slightly baggy sweatpants underneath, cant really tell, or you'll maybe be too cold to care lol. also im not "necessarily" a vintage dresser, but def dig this channel. also be safe everyone. hypothermia is a horrible.
Where I live it gets cold. I have a ski mask I wear when I'm walking the dog. Having asthma breathing cold air is a heart stopper. I really liked the black tights with the purple plaid outfit. Just lovely. I really love the orange gloves and beret. That stands out and looks wonderful. Also I don't want to nudge but it looks as if you lost some lbs. You look great either way. Gosh I really don't want to offend.
TheClosetHistorian Ha! Yes, the worst is when you lose or gain enough weight to have to start all over again finding (or sewing!) clothes in your size.... 😱
What a fabulous cold-weather wardrobe. Here in Canada we wear bulky down coats to stay warm in winter months and there's nothing vintage about them : ( I much prefer wool 1940's coats but they are becoming quite a rarity. Muffs are nice too and I would imagine that they aren't that difficult to make since they are basically a lined cylinder with a zipped pocket.
I made a coat and used foil-backed felt inter lining, even in the sleeves (note make the arm holes and sleeves larger). It is surprisingly light but very warm for the cold climate where I live.
I got myself a 60s wool coat free from my grandma closet this year I couldnt be more happy. Also what I do in winter is layering knitwear, like a thick wool cardigan over a thinner turtleneck sweater otherwise i'm cold haha.
You used to get these thick, thick stockings before tights became a thing. I am speaking about in the sixties because I cant remember the fifties. Yeah, you got patterened ones, like cable and lacy knit and plain ones that all went on you little kiddy suspender belt and did nothing to stop the big blast of frigid Scottish air freezing your bum or tops of your legs off. I would say that black tights are fine because no matter how big your knickers were (sometimes they were like thermal cycling shorts and they were great!) it still caused a horrible draft up your legs! Yeah I remember getting the wooly cycling shorts they were WONDERFUL because you could make it that your stockings reached up to the point where you could overlap them...bliss! Honestly it gets to minus 20 or less in the Highlands and we had to wear skirts to school and it would have been awful...tights were just at the beginning so we were always behind the times out in the wilds! By the way that black dress is beyond gorgeous. I used to have one like that and want another (unfortunately bigger these days) one!
I wear dresses some in winter here in Tennessee. It's not terribly cold, but it feels like it! I like to get a close fitting legging, and tuck it into my boot. (Mine are just above the ankle. Dressy.) The socks can come up to meet it, but won't show. Leggings are warmer than tights, and socks can be changed out more often. If you still need a bit more warmth, shorten a pair of sweatpants to a length just above the skirt, and in a color that will camouflage with the leggings. I find that black is just right for me in the boots, socks, leggings and sweatpants and slip. Could add tights under all that, I guess! Don't freeze, Y'all!
I invested in winter boots from American Duchess and they're worth every penny! I have also found vintage flannel shirts, which I wear with my wool skirts and they are very warm...or my Freddie's of Pinewood jeans for a more casual vibe. I live in California so nice wool coats are hard to find.
Since tights drive me nuts, I've actually cut off the leg part of woolen tights, secured the edge and used them as stockings attached to my girdle. Works like a dream and they're really warm too, which is highly appreciated in Scandinavia during wintertime. Since it does get really cold here, I usually wear two petticoats under my woolen full skirt: a cotton one nearest to skin and a tulle petticoat over that one. I might even add thick woolen knee high socks and mittens over my woolen gloves when it gets below -15C.
Hi Bianca. I love the all black look. Can't go wrong with that look, ever. The colorful berets with the matching gloves and coordinating plaid mufflers are adorable. Thanks for that very cool (warm) tip.
I'm Dutch. I can say that leaving the house is the only option in very cold weather. My tips are to use the warmest accessories and double them at least.
I ve just fi'd your channel and even if I Don t sew I m amazed by how beautiful you are how amazing and wonderful your style is You are the quintessence of elegance to me. Lots of love from France
I live in Anchorage, AK and while our winter is mild compared to other parts of the state, we can still get quite frigid. I’ve found the most important thing is to layer and focus on quality fabrics: wool, cashmere, silk. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and increases cold exposure. Silk especially is surprisingly warm, and I love using a silk scarf to wrap around my head and neck. For legs, you can layer tights for extra warmth.
I'm not a stalker but I love your channel. Mondays are better when your new video is up. Thanks for all the history you give when describing the essentials for the various time periods . Can't wait for the video. Enjoy your week.
My Mum was a very stylish young woman in the 50s in Winnipeg,Canada. Her winter essentials were wool understockings worn over her hose. Also winter ankle boots and something called rubber overshoes that would fit over her heels. No down parkas then but she did have fur coats which I’m sure you could switch to faux fur now.
I want those dang rubber overshoes! I think the Royal Vintage booties are sorta supposed to look like they could be like some of the old ones from the 50's www.royalvintageshoes.com/1940s-vintage-shoes/aspen-retro-winter-booties-black
Thank you Katherine! It's actually a plushy cat, I fell for it at Target oops! www.target.com/p/standing-black-cat-halloween-fabric-figure-hyde-38-eek-boutique-8482/-/A-54345021 I love him
It gets quite chilly here in the UK, here's some extra tips for you. Wool trousers are the best It's all in the layers, undershirts, slips and vests are your best friend's Jumpers! Get a good pair of boots that are waterproof, good for keeping your feet dry and you can wear multiple pairs of socks inside I find turbans in thick fabrics like velvet are great for keeping the head warm if you can't pull off a beret
Love this video. I find coats easily in thrift stores. People seem to purge them while they are still in very good shape. I love hats, gloves and scarves too. They really transform a basic garment. I look forward to a holiday inspired style essential video!
I love your style because it is brilliantly authentic and true, and a bit extreme. Your fast talk and style tips are appealing to this silver hair in Nebraska. We don't get as cold/snowy here as other states, but definitely more than your part of Colorado. You are great, and the black on black at the beginning, with gold accessories adding punch and flash was absolutely lovely. On point with your hair and makeup. Well done, as always.
I am considering making a Harry Potter look book for my 18 in American Girl dolls. I an JUST getting around to listening to the books on Audible. I have bought the full set of books for my daughter when she was 10 to 12. She is now 34, plus I have bought sets for three granddaughters over the years. Now It’s my turn! I have enjoyed your Slytherins look book over the past few months.
I loves your style I loves the 30s,40s,50s 60s&70s.ill like to see you do some of the garments of designers from the era's I listed above Coco Chanel Bob Mackie Calvin Klein and Anne Klein Bill Blas's Oscar Dee Renta Oleg Cassini Gloria Vanderbilt and more.Thsnks for showing.
I love these kinds of videos! I have wool berets and man they are worth the money! Right now Im struggling with coats because as I sew my own vintage inspired wardrobe it takes a long time. I want and need a princess coat but am trying not to buy one, so Im using my modern coat and I hate the way it crushes my skirts and dresses, I have a short swing coat in the works for straight skirts and trousers but other than that there is a big hole in my closet for vtg inspired outerwear probably because thats the hardest.
Fab tips lovely! I concur, black tights & woollen clothes are an essential in my UK wardrobe! I love to layer up with a basic long sleeve tee under pure wool sweaters, tucked into A line/pleated skirts or wide leg trousers. You cannot beat a heavy, belted woollen coat for an absolute gorgeous 40's/50's look. I too have many wool berets in an assortment of colours to bring the look together! Xx
Thank you Jo! Oh how I wish I were able to shiver around the UK this fall and winter, though I'm sure it's cozy inside the V&A and that's where I'd be for days at a time ;)
If you can, vintage cashmere is a godsend in the winter. I found a couple at Armstrong Vintage in Edinburgh last year (not to flex) and I never want to take them off.
One of my best thrift store finds was one of my wintercoats, pitchblack wool with a fur collar, works very good for 1920's and 60's looks. And I payed the equivalent of about four dollars for it :)
The berets with matching gloves were amazing as was the red wool and brown dress from last season. I adore opaque hose with dresses and slacks. I wear cloche hats and a really nice wool scarf is a must for blustery cold days.
Bit strange to be watching a fall & winter essentials video when it's still 30ºC where I live (thank goodness, cos I hate the cold), but always lovely to see one of your videos :)
As a fat colour loving person, I didn't used to be able to wear tights, but with snag on the scene now, I have many many pairs, but only two of them are black!
I totally agree with the black tights. However being further north in Saskatchewan Canada our winters can be extremely cold -40 to -50 Celsius at times. So I found thermal/fleece lined black tights to wear. However you’re not outside long running from building to vehicle at those temps
Fellow Saskatchewanian here! When it gets to -40 I've found that my vintage winter coats can sometimes keep me warmer than my down-filled parka. I also like layering with fleecy leggings. But those extreme cold days I prefer to just stay indoors.
Colette Bramwell-Colyer I‘ve found, that when it’s really, really cold, thermal underwear alone just doesn’t cut it. I‘ve actually taken to wearing bulky, padded snowboarding pants over my clothes, when I‘m outside for more than 5 min. It’s a little awkward, but hey, you take off your coat and winter boots upon arriving somewhere....why not your ‚overpants‘ as well. And I‘m talking just -10 here...no idea, how people survive temperatures lower than that 😲 Also helps with the being too warmly dressed for inside issue, I have, when I dress conventionally warm.
Rara Avis you get acclimatized to the weather. -10celsius feels quite warm after you have -40C along with the wind it then feels more like -50 or worse at times. That’s when you break out the snowboard pants. -10 is still light fall jackets here.
Havnt watched the vid yet (will edit when done) but that thumbnail was a great pic. Those orange looking gloves look amazing with those outfits. 3:51 is that a sword pin? Nice. Those buttons on the shoulder area of the red wool dress added a great addition to that dress.
Fleece ligned black tights are a thing those under a wool skirt will help you survive I promise! You can look like a fancy vintage babe and confuse everyone about how you aren't cold in the Canadian winter 😂
cashmere is my go to in winter, possibly in matching twin sets...sweaters...knits...THERMALS...loved every style Bianca...yes please do another one with sweaters/cardigans/knits?
Oh, twin sets! I have always loved these, and they were very uncool in the 80s and 90s when I was a teen. Modern sources for them are Uniqlo (!) and the British brand Boden (they do a cropped style cardigan in lots of colors every year).
i need to get on your level with vintage suiting!! i currently have an obsession with 1940s/1950s coats and have collected several but really need to stop bc i rarely get to wear them (living in LA really puts a damper on nice winter clothes lol)
I love every outfit. I love to dress in vintage clothing too. Hard to find my petite size here. I look at estate sales and we have antique store that specializes in vintage clothing. I find some gloves run very very small, women must have had very tiny hands. Thank you for the shopping tips. I love wool and yes it is not easy to find. You are a wonderful seamstress.
I always find GORGEOUS vintage coats that five times too big, it's heartbreaking! One of my cold weather tips is to wear knee or thigh high socks over my tights, as well as wearing slips under my outfit. That extra layer can make a huge difference.
You always look stunning. However your Fall/Winter looks are my absolute favorites. I just love how you mix and match outfits and accessories. So much class and chic styling going on. *I'd love to see video on your Fall/Winter makeup and of course shoes and boots, galoshes, etc. The beep, rich lip colour, you're wearing, is so lovely. I definitely has a professional goth look. 🎃🕷🖤
Thank you! I actually don't have any good proper winter shoes right now, but of course am dreaming after the ones from Royal Vintage www.royalvintageshoes.com/1940s-vintage-shoes/aspen-retro-winter-booties-black This lipstick is the shade Rooch from Colourpop :)
I am SO ready for the Autumn/Winter seasons (though it's still pretty warm in London right now, boo!) It's nice to see a fellow vintage enthusiast who enjoys the darker/gothier side of things, I really loved the first outfit. I also do love a bit of plaid/tartan, that purple one you have is gorgeous. My husband and I are off to Edinburgh in November and I am already planning my plaid related outfits! Thank you for sharing, your videos are always a joy.
Thank you Kelly! It's still a bit warm for wools here too. Just thinking about how magical London would be in fall makes my heart ache. I lived there from January to May once when I was studying so I never got to experience London in the autumn. I did love Edinburgh in the soggy spring, it even snowed very lightly when I was at the top of Edinburgh castle which was quite special! I miss the UK so desperately, appreciate it all extra for me
Maybe your next video can be all about sweaters! I live in South Mississippi where it rarely gets cold but I am excited for fall and winter regardless I cant wait to pull my vintage and vintage inspired pieces out❤
A lot of these essentials seem obvious once you list them, but they're all things that I wouldn't have thought of by myself. Thank you for your wisdom, it's very helpful! (Gonna go buy some matching accessories now for winter)
I just got a wool coat from the 80s at the thrift shop yesterday, it's a little small on me so I cant close it and the sleeves are kinda short on me but I could not leave it when it's so cute and was only $6
I have a vintage camel hair coat that I love. I also have my grandmothers mink which is my frigid air trick lol. I’m always scared to wear it but I usually don’t get many nasty comments when I wear it.
How about boots? I'd love to see a video all about vintage footwear (maybe I missed yours as I just found you about two months ago). Anyway, I loved your accessories video, such great tips!
I do have some older videos about shoes, mainly this one: th-cam.com/video/oq4pVkbxX4Y/w-d-xo.html In winter I usually still wear my heels, but I will wear modern flat ankle boots from the house out to clear the snow off my car and until I get where I'm going, so I just switch shoes in the car once I get to my destination.
I cannot wait for fall! Your outfits are beautiful 😍 and I loved the tips. We don't get too chilly where I live, but I still love that time of the year the most.
My wallet and I are just glad we live in Arizona. 😂 Although I still want a cute, long vintage coat. I have some modern ones but they’re not exactly what I’m looking for. I’ll have to check out the thrift store again! Also great video as always Bianca! 💖💖💖
I'm at college in Wisconsin. We get FREEZING winters here and I'm forced to be outside a lot. Though my style isn't "true vintage" per se, I have some tips:
*Get yourself some THICK stockings. No backseamed sheers here, you WILL get frostbite within 5 minutes. I prefer cotton because wool can be too hot in heated buildings, but if you're out all day, definitely get one or two pairs of wool too. They're very Wartime 1940s and can look super cute if you do it right.
*Merino or cashmere sweaters. Thrift them. Live in them. Be a Sweater Girl. Get cozy.
*Wool felt circle skirts. Same as above.
*Slips, petticoats, and thermals are 100% necessary in winter. Buy them, make them, whatever. That extra layer of warmth is so important. Indera sells really nice, really cheap 100% cotton slips, undershirts, and leggings, though nylon or rayon is fine too. Layer UNDER your stockings. Working women have done this for generations, even if in all the photos they look freezing in their sheers and heels--it's not necessarily representative of reality.
*Boots. Bean Boots have been around since forever and they're still the best, though Emu and Doc Martens also have some great winter styles that look vintagey enough.
Stay warm and look cute, friends!!!
5
I live in Finland and I love wool tights in the winter. If they aren't too thick, they strike that beautiful balance of keeping you warm when outside, without boiling you when you're inside. Also I fully agree with the need for thermals, even a thermal tank top, which adds zero bulk, will go a long way to keeping you toasty warm.
Wool thights, genius !! Didn't realize they could be historically accurate.
Also, if you absolutely must wear pumps instead of wool-lined boots, buy yourself a pair of wool insoles.
Instead of modern thermal wear, thin merino wool undies are great, too. And they’re soft and non-scratchy (my mother tells me that was not the case when she was growing up - she was born in 1943 and has refused to wear wool since her teenage years. 😉)
I live in a subtropical climate so it rarely is cold enough to even wear a wool coat or leather jacket let alone all these layers. I wanted to make some but out of more breathable, lighter fabric. Probably a cotton. It’s kind of a shame though because I love coats
Here are some tips I have:
1. Wear sneaky layers underneath. At winter, I wear leggings or tights underneath pants. Layering is a good choice in general.
2. Unfortunately, vintage hats tend to be more for accessorizing than for practicality (they don't cover ears or hair, etc). My tip is to wear a babushka scarf. This is actually historically accurate and it can protect your hairstyle, as well as your neck and ears (which can hurt, if cold wind and snow/rain gets to them).
3. Wear wool socks inside of winter boots. Bring a pair of shoes to change into once you're inside if it's possible.
4. Invest in nice, warming gloves. Nobody likes to have freezing hands.
5. Above all, value practicality and safety. It can be annoying to have to wear something very ugly, for the sake of it, but that will always be better than risking your health and safety.
I would be extremely interested in a harry potter houses gone vintage lookbook type of deal... LOVING those gloves though!!!
'Tis a good thing those are already in the works then ;)
@@TheClosetHistorian oh goodie! * does the squeal and jump and clapping thing * lol * collects herself * i'm looking forward to seeing it
I'm somehow more partial to off-white tights with my vintage looks in winter. I find that they make my outfits pop more. Do they end up an unwashable-street-mud-splattered-mess by the end of winter? Oh yes they do.
For extra warmth I typically layer an off-white knee high sock on top - the patterned ones truly invoke the 40s as someone mentioned before. If it's extra cold I will even put a pair of short ones on top cutely sticking out from my booties.
Also, don't forget fleece or wool insoles!
It’s 90-100 F where I am, so I’m just going to watch this and dream about wearing my autumn and winter clothing.
Same here ^^ Let's enjoy summer clothes for a few weeks !
Part Two... styling sweaters! (?) 😆
I'm afraid I don't really have enough I actually LOVE for vintage styling, they are harder to find, 1940's looking ones that is.
I just found a 100% wool 80's-does-50's coat that looks like a cape at a vintage pop-up for like, $30 this summer. I can't wait to wear it because I've been looking for a coat for years and this one makes me feel like a professor at Hogwarts.
Hogwarts professor style is totally GOALS honestly
Score!
Leggings. The typical pants that ppl wear to the gym work well with boots either under pants or as tights.
I have been watching all your videos and continue to be impressed by your style. I had a wool dress and coat custom-made in Greece in 1960 ( yes that is not a typo), and the price was $5 each for the professional seamstress. She worked from her own pattern based on a magazine photo I showed her. The dress had a jewel-neckline. long-sleeves and slightly full skirt-deep red with a discreet floral pattern. The coat was a pale mauve mohair. Beautiful work. Long gone but I could still draw them if need be.
Thank you! The custom dressmaker sounds like a dream and the items sound super lovely indeed! One of my friends husband was telling me about a little tailors shop they found in Rome where he had a coat custom fitted, so apparently it is still possible out there!
I've always found to tackle the UK's wet and cold autumn/winter that transferring to 40's style wool trousers (ideally lined if you can find them) with long socks underneath and swapping out heels for leather brogues (try and get them with thicker souls that are non slip) is a good starting point. I also like to pair that with a collared shirt with a sleeveless jumper and even a cami underneath (if it's particularly icy), that will keep you very warm indeed! I tend to avoid wider skirts (circle skirts or wide A-Lines) as cold breezes up your legs can really make you feel the cold! Tighter pencil skirts with tights keep you more sealed in, as it were, and cetainly keep you warmer in the cold months.
Those plaid skirts are everything! I seriously need some! 😍
ditto
Check thrift shops and also Etsy! They made a ton of them in the 1980's that are super useful for vintage looks!
Those bright gloves with the grey suit 💋👌 definitely inspired
Wool knee high socks are the best in colder weather!
4:01 black velvet shoes 👠 👠 that sounds divine!
Vintage suiting and coating,,,, Dreams are made of you.
You know what's funny, of all the things one might think I had given my love for tights... I have no basic pair of black tights. I've got every color of the rainbow and some lace tights, but no black. What.
Also THAT FIRST WOOL DRESS I AM DYING. SWOON.
Thank you Kristina!
some tips from me, as a person that experiences some really shitty windy/ snowy winters in michigan, usa:
1- tights are great but fleece lined is even better! super soft, comfortable, and generally pretty high waisted.
2.-always dress in multiple layers, ive found if you keep the bottom layers that are next to skin natural fabrics (like cotton or silk) and the upper layers synthetic (like rayon or acrylic) it helps trap in the heat generated by my body and keep me super warm because while natural fabrics are breathable synthetics generally are not.
3-if you live in a pretty windy area i would opt instead for a leather or synthetic coat as wool doesn't have much wind resistance (unless you line it with silk or a thinsulate).
4- if its bone chilling cold and you have a thick skirt, wear slightly baggy sweatpants underneath, cant really tell, or you'll maybe be too cold to care lol.
also im not "necessarily" a vintage dresser, but def dig this channel. also be safe everyone. hypothermia is a horrible.
Absolutely in love with wool skirts. Yet to find a wool dress.. Hear my cry, vintage gods😊✨
Love the idea of matching sets. Gloves hats, belts and scarves.
Wow that second outfit you did with the purple plaid is AMAZING!!! 🖤
Thank you!
I am rewatching this, to plan to gather for cold weather.
Where I live it gets cold. I have a ski mask I wear when I'm walking the dog. Having asthma breathing cold air is a heart stopper. I really liked the black tights with the purple plaid outfit. Just lovely. I really love the orange gloves and beret. That stands out and looks wonderful. Also I don't want to nudge but it looks as if you lost some lbs. You look great either way. Gosh I really don't want to offend.
Thank you! I'm not sure if I have changed size at all, all of my clothes still fit which is what matters most to me ha ;)
TheClosetHistorian Ha! Yes, the worst is when you lose or gain enough weight to have to start all over again finding (or sewing!) clothes in your size.... 😱
I love wool skirts in winter and yes they're impossible to find in regular stores nowadays, but I've managed to thrift some gems 😄
What a fabulous cold-weather wardrobe. Here in Canada we wear bulky down coats to stay warm in winter months and there's nothing vintage about them : ( I much prefer wool 1940's coats but they are becoming quite a rarity. Muffs are nice too and I would imagine that they aren't that difficult to make since they are basically a lined cylinder with a zipped pocket.
Thank you! I have DIYd a faux fur muff before, very easy indeed :) I like making matching sets of faux fur collar, muff, and little hat!
My faaaaavorite time of year for fashion!
Same! It's the best :)
I made a coat and used foil-backed felt inter lining, even in the sleeves (note make the arm holes and sleeves larger). It is surprisingly light but very warm for the cold climate where I live.
I got myself a 60s wool coat free from my grandma closet this year I couldnt be more happy. Also what I do in winter is layering knitwear, like a thick wool cardigan over a thinner turtleneck sweater otherwise i'm cold haha.
You used to get these thick, thick stockings before tights became a thing. I am speaking about in the sixties because I cant remember the fifties. Yeah, you got patterened ones, like cable and lacy knit and plain ones that all went on you little kiddy suspender belt and did nothing to stop the big blast of frigid Scottish air freezing your bum or tops of your legs off. I would say that black tights are fine because no matter how big your knickers were (sometimes they were like thermal cycling shorts and they were great!) it still caused a horrible draft up your legs! Yeah I remember getting the wooly cycling shorts they were WONDERFUL because you could make it that your stockings reached up to the point where you could overlap them...bliss! Honestly it gets to minus 20 or less in the Highlands and we had to wear skirts to school and it would have been awful...tights were just at the beginning so we were always behind the times out in the wilds! By the way that black dress is beyond gorgeous. I used to have one like that and want another (unfortunately bigger these days) one!
I wear dresses some in winter here in Tennessee. It's not terribly cold, but it feels like it! I like to get a close fitting legging, and tuck it into my boot. (Mine are just above the ankle. Dressy.) The socks can come up to meet it, but won't show. Leggings are warmer than tights, and socks can be changed out more often. If you still need a bit more warmth, shorten a pair of sweatpants to a length just above the skirt, and in a color that will camouflage with the leggings. I find that black is just right for me in the boots, socks, leggings and sweatpants and slip. Could add tights under all that, I guess! Don't freeze, Y'all!
I invested in winter boots from American Duchess and they're worth every penny! I have also found vintage flannel shirts, which I wear with my wool skirts and they are very warm...or my Freddie's of Pinewood jeans for a more casual vibe. I live in California so nice wool coats are hard to find.
Since tights drive me nuts, I've actually cut off the leg part of woolen tights, secured the edge and used them as stockings attached to my girdle. Works like a dream and they're really warm too, which is highly appreciated in Scandinavia during wintertime. Since it does get really cold here, I usually wear two petticoats under my woolen full skirt: a cotton one nearest to skin and a tulle petticoat over that one. I might even add thick woolen knee high socks and mittens over my woolen gloves when it gets below -15C.
Hi Bianca.
I love the all black look. Can't go wrong with that look, ever.
The colorful berets with the matching gloves and coordinating plaid mufflers are adorable. Thanks for that very cool (warm) tip.
Thank you Darnelle!
I'm Dutch. I can say that leaving the house is the only option in very cold weather. My tips are to use the warmest accessories and double them at least.
I ve just fi'd your channel and even if I Don t sew I m amazed by how beautiful you are how amazing and wonderful your style is You are the quintessence of elegance to me. Lots of love from France
Merci! Thank you so much!
I live in Anchorage, AK and while our winter is mild compared to other parts of the state, we can still get quite frigid. I’ve found the most important thing is to layer and focus on quality fabrics: wool, cashmere, silk. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and increases cold exposure. Silk especially is surprisingly warm, and I love using a silk scarf to wrap around my head and neck. For legs, you can layer tights for extra warmth.
I'm not a stalker but I love your channel. Mondays are better when your new video is up. Thanks for all the history you give when describing the essentials for the various time periods . Can't wait for the video. Enjoy your week.
Thank you!
My Mum was a very stylish young woman in the 50s in Winnipeg,Canada. Her winter essentials were wool understockings worn over her hose. Also winter ankle boots and something called rubber overshoes that would fit over her heels. No down parkas then but she did have fur coats which I’m sure you could switch to faux fur now.
I want those dang rubber overshoes! I think the Royal Vintage booties are sorta supposed to look like they could be like some of the old ones from the 50's www.royalvintageshoes.com/1940s-vintage-shoes/aspen-retro-winter-booties-black
Just when I needed something to watch/listen to (while tidying my vintage collection) this appeared! Hooray! xxx
Thank you Emma!
This was fabulous. I also love the ceramic cat you had in the background!
Thank you Katherine! It's actually a plushy cat, I fell for it at Target oops! www.target.com/p/standing-black-cat-halloween-fabric-figure-hyde-38-eek-boutique-8482/-/A-54345021 I love him
@@TheClosetHistorian thanks for the link! It's so cute!
It gets quite chilly here in the UK, here's some extra tips for you.
Wool trousers are the best
It's all in the layers, undershirts, slips and vests are your best friend's
Jumpers!
Get a good pair of boots that are waterproof, good for keeping your feet dry and you can wear multiple pairs of socks inside
I find turbans in thick fabrics like velvet are great for keeping the head warm if you can't pull off a beret
I got few vintage fur trim coats . Only problem living in Florida. You don't get wear as much 😕
I have some faux fur collars I like to layer on over my suits and coats :) Very glam look
Must have capes and berets. Plus, LOVE autumn and winter themed brooches, I.e. leaves, or ice skates
Love the fall goth looks! The purple plaid should be a goth vintage staple for everyone!
Thank you! More coming soon :)
Love this video. I find coats easily in thrift stores. People seem to purge them while they are still in very good shape. I love hats, gloves and scarves too. They really transform a basic garment.
I look forward to a holiday inspired style essential video!
Thank you!
Those wool dresses are to die for! And, the matching accessories really added to the chicness!
Thank you!
I love your style because it is brilliantly authentic and true, and a bit extreme. Your fast talk and style tips are appealing to this silver hair in Nebraska. We don't get as cold/snowy here as other states, but definitely more than your part of Colorado. You are great, and the black on black at the beginning, with gold accessories adding punch and flash was absolutely lovely. On point with your hair and makeup. Well done, as always.
Thank you Maureen!
I am considering making a Harry Potter look book for my 18 in American Girl dolls. I an JUST getting around to listening to the books on Audible. I have bought the full set of books for my daughter when she was 10 to 12. She is now 34, plus I have bought sets for three granddaughters over the years. Now It’s my turn! I have enjoyed your Slytherins look book over the past few months.
Thank you!
I loves your style I loves the 30s,40s,50s 60s&70s.ill like to see you do some of the garments of designers from the era's I listed above Coco Chanel Bob Mackie Calvin Klein and Anne Klein Bill Blas's Oscar Dee Renta Oleg Cassini Gloria Vanderbilt and more.Thsnks for showing.
I love these kinds of videos! I have wool berets and man they are worth the money! Right now Im struggling with coats because as I sew my own vintage inspired wardrobe it takes a long time. I want and need a princess coat but am trying not to buy one, so Im using my modern coat and I hate the way it crushes my skirts and dresses, I have a short swing coat in the works for straight skirts and trousers but other than that there is a big hole in my closet for vtg inspired outerwear probably because thats the hardest.
Fab tips lovely!
I concur, black tights & woollen clothes are an essential in my UK wardrobe! I love to layer up with a basic long sleeve tee under pure wool sweaters, tucked into A line/pleated skirts or wide leg trousers. You cannot beat a heavy, belted woollen coat for an absolute gorgeous 40's/50's look. I too have many wool berets in an assortment of colours to bring the look together! Xx
Thank you Jo! Oh how I wish I were able to shiver around the UK this fall and winter, though I'm sure it's cozy inside the V&A and that's where I'd be for days at a time ;)
@@TheClosetHistorian The cosiest place doll!😘
Another great video! Loved the outfits you put together!
Thank you Dona!
Love all black outfits 🖤🖤
Thank you Pamela!
You are too perfect- my style goes away in cold temps. You look cozy and fabulous!
Thank you Jenna!
Ha! Its still 100° daily in Texas
I have a pair of fleeced line blacking tights that are a amazing in the winter
If you can, vintage cashmere is a godsend in the winter. I found a couple at Armstrong Vintage in Edinburgh last year (not to flex) and I never want to take them off.
They are so inexpensive at the thrift store sometimes! I find it shocking!
One of my best thrift store finds was one of my wintercoats, pitchblack wool with a fur collar, works very good for 1920's and 60's looks. And I payed the equivalent of about four dollars for it :)
An excellent find!
The berets with matching gloves were amazing as was the red wool and brown dress from last season. I adore opaque hose with dresses and slacks. I wear cloche hats and a really nice wool scarf is a must for blustery cold days.
Thank you! I love a big paisley wool scarf myself, like a blanket one can wear :)
@@TheClosetHistorian, You're welcome and you can never go wrong with paisley.
Bit strange to be watching a fall & winter essentials video when it's still 30ºC where I live (thank goodness, cos I hate the cold), but always lovely to see one of your videos :)
Thank you! It's still pretty warm here too, but it's defiantly fall fashion season here on TH-cam already ha ;)
As a fat colour loving person, I didn't used to be able to wear tights, but with snag on the scene now, I have many many pairs, but only two of them are black!
How classic- the sweater and plaid skirt. Love it.
Thank you!
I totally agree with the black tights. However being further north in Saskatchewan Canada our winters can be extremely cold -40 to -50 Celsius at times. So I found thermal/fleece lined black tights to wear. However you’re not outside long running from building to vehicle at those temps
Fellow Saskatchewanian here! When it gets to -40 I've found that my vintage winter coats can sometimes keep me warmer than my down-filled parka. I also like layering with fleecy leggings. But those extreme cold days I prefer to just stay indoors.
Anna Polaris I agree sometimes it’s best to stay inside or wear long John’s and pants and forgo style lol
Colette Bramwell-Colyer
I‘ve found, that when it’s really, really cold, thermal underwear alone just doesn’t cut it. I‘ve actually taken to wearing bulky, padded snowboarding pants over my clothes, when I‘m outside for more than 5 min. It’s a little awkward, but hey, you take off your coat and winter boots upon arriving somewhere....why not your ‚overpants‘ as well. And I‘m talking just -10 here...no idea, how people survive temperatures lower than that 😲
Also helps with the being too warmly dressed for inside issue, I have, when I dress conventionally warm.
Rara Avis you get acclimatized to the weather. -10celsius feels quite warm after you have -40C along with the wind it then feels more like -50 or worse at times. That’s when you break out the snowboard pants. -10 is still light fall jackets here.
Yikes! That's just too cold!
Havnt watched the vid yet (will edit when done) but that thumbnail was a great pic. Those orange looking gloves look amazing with those outfits. 3:51 is that a sword pin? Nice. Those buttons on the shoulder area of the red wool dress added a great addition to that dress.
Thank you Rachel!
The black wool coat is stunning and so pretty with the accessories.
Thank you!
You look stunning in all of your looks!!! Just stunning!!! ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you Alice!
Absolutely love the black dress
Thank you Erin!
Really love each outfit!! Thank you for these great tips. So helpful!
Thank you Rhonda!
Fleece ligned black tights are a thing those under a wool skirt will help you survive I promise! You can look like a fancy vintage babe and confuse everyone about how you aren't cold in the Canadian winter 😂
cashmere is my go to in winter, possibly in matching twin sets...sweaters...knits...THERMALS...loved every style Bianca...yes please do another one with sweaters/cardigans/knits?
Thank you!
Oh, twin sets! I have always loved these, and they were very uncool in the 80s and 90s when I was a teen.
Modern sources for them are Uniqlo (!) and the British brand Boden (they do a cropped style cardigan in lots of colors every year).
I am in Minneapolis it gets much colder but I didn’t know that Colorado was “that nice” because you get so much snow ❄️ ❄️
It is indeed very nice and while snowy, not that snowy except in the mountains!
♥️♥️♥️the brown wool dress and the suits as separates with the accesories. You look great !
Thank you Esther!
i need to get on your level with vintage suiting!! i currently have an obsession with 1940s/1950s coats and have collected several but really need to stop bc i rarely get to wear them (living in LA really puts a damper on nice winter clothes lol)
Thank you! Yeah that LA weather makes dressing in fun fall layers difficult!
I love every outfit. I love to dress in vintage clothing too. Hard to find my petite size here. I look at estate sales and we have antique store that specializes in vintage clothing. I find some gloves run very very small, women must have had very tiny hands. Thank you for the shopping tips. I love wool and yes it is not easy to find. You are a wonderful seamstress.
Thank you Linda! I have to find larger sized gloves too, many are so very tiny!
I always find GORGEOUS vintage coats that five times too big, it's heartbreaking! One of my cold weather tips is to wear knee or thigh high socks over my tights, as well as wearing slips under my outfit. That extra layer can make a huge difference.
I found a dark red perfectly Miss Maisel style coat last year but it was farrrr to large for me and I was so sorry to leave it behind!
You always look stunning. However your Fall/Winter looks are my absolute favorites. I just love how you mix and match outfits and accessories. So much class and chic styling going on.
*I'd love to see video on your Fall/Winter makeup and of course shoes and boots, galoshes, etc.
The beep, rich lip colour, you're wearing, is so lovely. I definitely has a professional goth look. 🎃🕷🖤
Thank you! I actually don't have any good proper winter shoes right now, but of course am dreaming after the ones from Royal Vintage www.royalvintageshoes.com/1940s-vintage-shoes/aspen-retro-winter-booties-black This lipstick is the shade Rooch from Colourpop :)
New modern coats cost upwards of $200 as well, why not hunt for a good vintage one. Excellent tips, thank you.
So true!
I am SO ready for the Autumn/Winter seasons (though it's still pretty warm in London right now, boo!)
It's nice to see a fellow vintage enthusiast who enjoys the darker/gothier side of things, I really loved the first outfit.
I also do love a bit of plaid/tartan, that purple one you have is gorgeous.
My husband and I are off to Edinburgh in November and I am already planning my plaid related outfits!
Thank you for sharing, your videos are always a joy.
Thank you Kelly! It's still a bit warm for wools here too. Just thinking about how magical London would be in fall makes my heart ache. I lived there from January to May once when I was studying so I never got to experience London in the autumn. I did love Edinburgh in the soggy spring, it even snowed very lightly when I was at the top of Edinburgh castle which was quite special! I miss the UK so desperately, appreciate it all extra for me
Maybe your next video can be all about sweaters! I live in South Mississippi where it rarely gets cold but I am excited for fall and winter regardless I cant wait to pull my vintage and vintage inspired pieces out❤
I was from Wisconsin...moved to Georgia . Winters are nicer here.
Fleece lined tights.
A lot of these essentials seem obvious once you list them, but they're all things that I wouldn't have thought of by myself. Thank you for your wisdom, it's very helpful! (Gonna go buy some matching accessories now for winter)
Thank you Josie!
Matching berets and gloves are essentials! I have a very different style than you but I use that kind of duo all winter!
Such amazing outfits. Hope you can do some of your amazing dresses as a sewing project. I love how you wear a beret and matching gloves and bags. ❤️❤️
Thank you Carmen!
The suits are so classy! Great tailoring makes all the difference. Thanks for sharing your looks for fall.
Thank you Jo!
Love the lipstick! and blue plaid!!
Thank you!
Hi Bianca, I absolutely LOVE the brown wool dress and I don't even like brown! That is definitely a style I would be keen on exploring 💖
Thank you Lucille! It's those magic sleeves, bishop sleeves can't be beat ;)
Great video! Loved the plaid skirts, glad to know I'm not the only who lives in them in winter. And now I got serious 40s suit fomo 😍
Thank you!
I just got a wool coat from the 80s at the thrift shop yesterday, it's a little small on me so I cant close it and the sleeves are kinda short on me but I could not leave it when it's so cute and was only $6
Another great vid, Bianca, thank you!
Thank you!
Me wearing an entire outfit out of spandex: *Ah yes the velvet and suede are lovely*
I have a vintage camel hair coat that I love. I also have my grandmothers mink which is my frigid air trick lol. I’m always scared to wear it but I usually don’t get many nasty comments when I wear it.
I found a camel coat at the thrift store when I was around 16 and have been wearing it every winter since! So useful!
TheClosetHistorian so beautiful and classic too
LumberJill Chic!!!! Yesssss
Wintertastic! I love you!
Thank you!
How about boots? I'd love to see a video all about vintage footwear (maybe I missed yours as I just found you about two months ago). Anyway, I loved your accessories video, such great tips!
I do have some older videos about shoes, mainly this one: th-cam.com/video/oq4pVkbxX4Y/w-d-xo.html In winter I usually still wear my heels, but I will wear modern flat ankle boots from the house out to clear the snow off my car and until I get where I'm going, so I just switch shoes in the car once I get to my destination.
I cannot wait for fall! Your outfits are beautiful 😍 and I loved the tips. We don't get too chilly where I live, but I still love that time of the year the most.
Thank you! Me too :)
My wallet and I are just glad we live in Arizona. 😂 Although I still want a cute, long vintage coat. I have some modern ones but they’re not exactly what I’m looking for. I’ll have to check out the thrift store again! Also great video as always Bianca! 💖💖💖
Thank you! A lightweight rayon "coat" could work perhaps ;)
I need that bag it's beautiful. also loved the video
Thank you Kat!
I have such a problem with cardigans, they never fit me properly 😥 Love your look here, what lipstick are you wearing?
Thank you! This lipstick is the shade Rooch from Colourpop!
Ha! I was already on eBay looking for a plaid skirt.
Your channel is honestly one of my favorites. Huge fashion goals!
Thank you Hailey!