With a seriously cold snap arriving this week, we're looking at ways to make our wardrobe as warm as can be with the best thermals. Winter coats have been top of our shopping list of late, from leather trench coats to blanket jackets. And with hundreds of options in a range of prices we've been completely spoilt for choice. But it's not just outerwear that can help us to stay warm this winter.
This year, however, it's not just the weather that's making us brace for the chill. The current cost of living crisis and soaring bills have forced us to reconsider how we stay warm at home or work and with searches for the best thermals already soaring on Google, it seems everyone is looking for a solution. Look for layering pieces or for items with thermal properties that you can build into your usual outfits - such as thermal tights or leggings, long sleeve-tops, even jeans - which are now available with either a fleece lining or with thermal technology built in to help lock in that warmth.
The clothes you once only considered for practical pursuits? They’re now the pieces that will help you endure the winter chill in your daily life. Look for puffers and padded jackets for an extra layer of cushiony warmth or quilted jacket liners, which are a great way to add in an extra layer without the bulk. With that being said, here are the best thermals to help you stay cosy right now.
SHOP: The Best Thermal Clothing To Help You Stay Warm
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
John Lewis' heat-generating ribbed high-necked thermal top is available in a few colour combinations, which means there's something for work and play.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
This quilted liner jacket from Marks & Spencer, with its slimline silhouette, is great for slipping underneath a wool coat for that extra thermal layer.
Hollisterwww.hollisterco.com
This popular jacket comes fleece-lined, ideal for retaining heat during the winter seasons. While it may be limited in stock and in high demand, it does come in a few different colourways for your choice.
Sweaty Bettywww.sweatybetty.com
As well as activewear, Sweaty Betty has also made a name for itself when it comes to skiwear and base layers. This Modal High Neck Base Layer Top uses ultra-lightweight construction for effortless layering.
Skimswww.net-a-porter.com
Known for its serious sculpting power, Skims are no stranger to a pair of leggings. However, these Thermal Ribbed Cotton-Blend ones are a great base layer for cold climate concerns.
Wolford, Thermal Jumpsuit
WolfordLayer under clothes for effortless warmth. Made from recycled yarn knit, the material of this Thermal Jumpsuit from Wolford is breathable, temperature regulating and moisture-wicking.
ACAIwww.johnlewis.com
Billed as the 'ultimate cold-weather performance legwear', the ACAI Thermal Skinny Outdoor Trousers are fleece-lined and shower-resistant.
Arcteryxwww.arcteryx.com
This versatile zip-neck base layer is ideal for cold conditions. The Rho heavyweight zip neck comes in shades of black, warm stone, boxcar and Bordeaux.
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
Don't turn your nose up at the humble vest, especially when it's heat-generating like John Lewis'. This thermal camisole vest is cleverly designed to generate and trap heat to keep you warm.
UNIQLOwww.uniqlo.com
Uniqlo's Heat-Tech tops are a fashion-editor staple when temperatures truly plummet. Choose from seven different colours in this particular style.
Calzedoniwww.calzedonia.com
In classic black or surprising beige colourway, these highly opaque tights feature a soft and smooth thread on the outside and a “thermal effect” design on the inside so they're ideal for keeping warm.
How Does Uniqlo's Heat-Tech Work?
High-street hit Uniqlo has seen searches for its Uniqlo Heat-Tech products soar and has introduced plenty of new pieces to the range. The brand's collaboration with designer label Marni sees its thermal technology included in eight products from the collection. But how does it work? By absorbing and retaining heat from your body, which, thanks to highly-insulating layers made from fibres 1/10 the width of a human hair, prevent warmth from escaping. The fibres are also absorbent, which means they wick moisture away from the body to ensure you stay dry while keeping warm.
What Other Brands Make Brilliant Thermals?
Similarly, ACAI Outdoorwear, whose range of sell-out thermal jeans has gained a cult following since 2020, has just launched new colourways, meaning you can easily incorporate extra warmth into your outfits. Other brands to look for are M&S, John Lewis & Partners and Browns Fashion, who all have great choices of thermal products.
Hannah Banks-Walker is the Head of Fashion Commerce for Grazia, where she waxes lyrical about midi dresses and tries not to collect any more red lipsticks.