One day you’re watching the leaves change color, all bundled up in a snug sweater, and the next you’re being pelted with freezing raindrops. The onset—onslaught, rather—of winter can be brutal, but at least your wardrobe won’t have to suffer. This season, designers predicted cold, wet days ahead, creating clothes out of technical fabrics that can withstand the elements. Here are this winter’s weatherproof essentials that won’t blow away like your umbrella…
1. The Nylon Anorak
Nylon was all over the runway, from jackets to dresses, making the waterproof fabric suddenly fashionable. Nylon windbreakers and parkas used to be bulky, but thanks to new insulation and quilted stitching, this season’s designs are slim-fitting and chic. To lighten up a once weighty jacket even more, look for one in a pastel hue or one with a metallic sheen.
2. The Neoprene Dress
Neoprene—the high-tech fabric of surfer’s wet suits—has transitioned from the boardwalk to the catwalk. It stood out this past summer in the form of everything from mini skirts to crop tops, but works even better in the winter thanks to its moisture-wicking, heat-retaining qualities. Neoprene tops are very versatile, but our favorite way to wear the fabric is as a dress, especially an A-line silhouette that looks great with opaque tights and a moto jacket on top.
3. The Silk Trench
On a rainy day, nothing beats a classic trench coat. Just ask fashionistas Olivia Palermo, Jennifer Lawrence, and Cara Delevingne. But not all are created equal. While the chicest trench coats are spun from waterproofed silk, some cotton/polyester blends come in at a close second place. The neutral khaki or army green shades allow for pops of color elsewhere, such as a pair of leopard print flats or a bright red lip.
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4. The Rubber Shoe
Alexander Wang’s fall collection for Balenciaga featured rubber car coats—a look that worked on the runway but would be tough to pull off in real life. Rubber shoes, though, are another story. This season saw models in rubber flatforms and translucent rubber booties, which are not only weatherproof, but also more durable than leather. If you’re more down to earth, slip on a traditional rain boot or rubber-soled boat shoe.
Outfitted in this high-and-dry wardrobe, you’ll no longer have to rain-check a day outdoors!
