Winter Survival Guide for a Tropical Girl

I know what you're thinking: "You've never lived in a winter climate. What makes you an expert?" And you'd be right. But most winter advice is aimed at people already used to temperate weather, not those of us who go from 30°C to -12°C in a six-hour flight.

Winter can be as overwhelming as it is magical for those of us used to sweating through Christmas. But fear not—this tropical girl has survived sub-zero temperatures and come out (mostly) unscathed. Here's how:

Know Where You’re Going

Skiing in a winter wonderland? Exploring cities with indoor heating galore? Knowing your destination helps you pack smarter.

Layering Like a Pro

Start with what you already own: long-sleeved tees, jeans, and jackets. Layering is your secret weapon for adjusting to indoor heat and outdoor chill. For extra warmth, try heat-tech tops or a retro long-sleeve-under-short-sleeve combo (hello, early 2000s nostalgia).

Outerwear: Warmth Over Fashion

Not all jackets are created equal. Look for features like insulation and water resistance. Sub-zero temps? Go for down or thick wool coats. Trust me—looking warm is not the same as being warm.

Accessories to Keep Toasty

Scarves, beanies, and gloves are non-negotiable. Wool is ideal, but steer clear of cotton if there’s snow—it soaks up moisture like a sponge. Prefer stylish over practical? Earmuffs might work for you, but I swear by beanies and thick scarves. Yes, hat hair happens. Embrace it.

Dressing Cute in the Cold

Can you wear dresses in winter? Absolutely! Pair them with thermal tights or leggings. Long wool dresses are cosy, but be warned: public bathrooms become an extreme sport. Peeing with layers is an art. Practice makes perfect.

Warm Feet, Happy You

Winter boots are non-negotiable—look for waterproof, insulated pairs with good traction to tackle icy sidewalks. But don’t stop there! Thick socks are your secret weapon for extra warmth and comfort. Wool socks, like merino wool, are ideal because they insulate even when damp, unlike cotton, which can leave you freezing. Double up if needed for those truly frigid days. Pro tip: Cobblestones are less slippery than smooth ice, so tread carefully and aim for those textured paths.

Hot Eats and Drinks

Warm up from the inside out! Soups, stews, and hot chocolate are winter staples. Alcohol might feel warm initially but doesn’t help in the long run—stick to teas or rich hot cocoa. My favourite? Hot chocolate from Meert (yes, better than Angelina).

Glowing Snow, Glowing Skin

Cold weather can be brutal on your skin, so keep it moisturised with a rich, creamy formulation. While I’m a fan of gel moisturisers in Singapore’s humidity, they don’t quite cut it in the cold. For lips, pack a reliable lip balm—chapped, dry lips are no joke when temperatures plummet! Trust me, transitioning from tropical heat to frosty winds will have your skin begging for some extra love.

Awkward Stories & Real Talk

Winter is full of surprises. Static cling? A quick rub with a dryer sheet will save your look. And layering? Great for warmth, but every extra piece of clothing makes bathroom breaks an event. Winter humbles us all.

Surviving winter as a tropical girl is an adventure. It’ll test your patience (and bladder), but it’ll also make you appreciate cosy sweaters and hot soups like never before. So layer up, warm up, and embrace the frosty wonderland. ❄️