Light Hearted

The last couple of weeks in Michigan have been ridiculously cold. While we were spared heavy snow this time around, the frigid temperatures have made up for it. Let me tell you, it’s been so cold that even my snow shovel seems to shiver when I pick it up! 🥶 Now, I still don’t own a snow blower (a point of pride or denial, I’m not sure), but I’ve done my fair share of shoveling. The one thing I’ve really come to terms with, though, is how cold weather impacts your dressing sense. Or more accurately, your willingness to bother with it.

Let’s be honest: when it’s in the low teens for two weeks straight, looking stylish is the last thing on your mind. The first thing? Survival. For me, this means living in my trusty track pants. They’ve seen the inside of every store, mall, and possibly even a restaurant (don’t judge). The effort required to “properly dress up” seems Herculean when the mere act of stepping outside feels like a punishment from Mother Nature.

Layers Over Style

Even on the rare occasion I decide to wear something halfway fashionable, it’s all for naught because… coats. The bulky, puffy, “I’m-a-marshmallow” kind of coat that swallows any semblance of effort you’ve made underneath. And if you’re thinking, “Well, what about scarves, hats, and gloves? You can accessorize!” let me stop you right there. I own a monkey hat that makes me look like I’ve just returned from Alaska. Functional? Yes. Fashionable? Not even close.

I used to think sweaters were a great winter solution—practical and presentable. But when the weather decided to dip into single digits, sweaters became laughably inadequate. The sweater life is for mild winters, not the kind of frostbite-inducing days where even the squirrels give up.

The Warm Climate Fantasy

Now, let’s compare this to warmer climates. Oh, the joy of year-round shorts, T-shirts, and lightweight jackets that are more comfort statements than necessities. If you’ve ever been to a sunny locale, you’ll notice something—people, especially women, are always dressed to impress. Cool linen shirts, effortless shorts, and sunglasses that cost more than my monthly utility bill. It’s like they’re starring in their own personal runway show every day.

Meanwhile, back in Michigan, I’m starring in a survival documentary called How Not to Freeze Your Ears Off. The very idea of wearing a breezy summer outfit feels laughably distant. I’d layer thermals under it anyway, effectively ruining the look. And hair? Forget it. Being bald, I’m spared the static electricity struggle, but the cold still finds its way to remind me why hats are non-negotiable.

The Reluctant Fashionista

There are moments, though, when I fantasize about dressing up properly. Maybe I’ll venture to a restaurant—a fancy one—and I’ll try to look my best. But then, as soon as I remember that I’ll need to peel off layers upon layers upon entering, my enthusiasm plummets. Nobody wants to spend 10 minutes de-coating, un-gloving, and untangling scarves in front of an audience.

At the end of the day, it’s all about priorities. In Michigan winters, practicality wins over fashion every single time. While the fashionistas in warm climates may dazzle, I’m over here embracing my frumpiness. My track pants, monkey hat, and trusty puffer jacket are my winter uniform—because staying warm is always in style. Have a great weekend and stay cozy out there! ❄️😊