Staying warm and chic during January, Reykjavik style
Photographer Saga Sigurðardóttir always looks impeccable whatever the weather. Here she wears a wool and Mongolian lambskin coat by Icelandic designer Hildur Yeoman. Photo/ Bjarni Sig
Winter is at its most bleak in January and February in Iceland. The ever changeable but generally freezing winter weather and snowfall sometimes mean that you either look like a bulky snowman or you catch a cold.
If you're in the capital city here are a few pointers on how Reykjavik cool cats dress for style AND warmth.
1. Being cold is not cool
Winter in Iceland does not allow for careless dressing. Say goodbye to nylon tights, high slippery heels, and flimsy overcoats.
2. Sliding around on ice is not cool
Again, and we repeat, again, do not wear slippery shoes or high heels when temperatures are below freezing. Especially as banks of ice tend to build up on footpaths even in the city centre. Go for a sturdy pair of boots. They should have a ribbed rubber sole and being waterproof is definitely a bonus!
3. Layer up
The trick to keeping warm is wearing multiple layers of clothing. Thermal underwear, a couple of thin sweaters, one thicker one, if you're good at layering you can get away with wearing pretty much anything on top.
4. Yes to the winter parka
The obvious choice for winter, and the right parka can look pretty damn cool, especially when the rest of the ensemble is more urban.
5. Go for fur - or a fake fur
Fur looks beautiful in winter and keeps you extremely warm. Grab a good value fur coat at one of the city's excellent second hand stores. If you're against fur, no problem, there are lots of gorgeous fake fur coats available at high street shops.
6. Accessorize
Take a hint from fashionable natives who go for stylish hats and scarves. A fur hat keeps you extremely warm and stylish, otherwise go for trendy beanies. Sweep an oversize scarf around your neck and don't forget a pair of warm gloves or mittens.