4 Warm Outfits for a Winter Bonfire
A winter bonfire is a fun idea to get together with friends and family and chase away the winter chill. If you're planning to brave the cold for an evening of good times around a winter bonfire, here are some tips to keep you warm and cozy.
Start with Jeans and a Sweater
A great option is to start with a pair of women’s jeans and a women’s sweater. If you are close to the bonfire (or if the winter chill isn’t too cold), this may be all you need while hanging near the fire in the warmth of good friends. Even if this is the case, keep an eye on the weather predictions and make sure that you have a warm coat available.
Turtlenecks can be a great idea with this outfit. You can wear a light turtleneck under a crew neck sweater for the warmth of layering while looking stylish. You can also wear a flannel shirt underneath a solid color sweater for warmth. If you are out in the country, keep in mind that how cold you think you will be and how cold you will be once you are out of the warm indoors (or simply walking away from the fire for a bit) may be two different things. When in doubt, layer up!
Winter Coat and Boots
For chasing away the chill, there is nothing like a down coat and winter snow boots. A down coat will not only insulate you from the cold but will act as a windbreak because of the water-resistant outer layer. Even if there isn’t snow, if the mercury has dropped substantially, you will be glad that your toes are toasty warm in your snow boots.
You’ll still want to make sure that you are wearing long pants and a long-sleeved shirt in case you actually get warm enough to unzip or remove your down coat, but with down unless you are dealing with serious winter temperatures, you won’t have as much of a need to layer clothing underneath.
Hoodie and Jeans with a Down Vest
A hoodie and jeans with a women’s down vest and a pair of boots is a casual and oh-so-comfy ensemble to wear to a winter bonfire. You have the advantage of a hood that you can pull up, the warmth of down, and you can easily go cooler or warmer as the mood and the weather strikes you.
A hoodie or crewneck sweatshirt is also a handy garment to leave in your car during the winter just in case. If you realize that you need another layer, if a friend could use a jacket, or if your vehicle gets stuck in the snow and ice, you will be glad to have it there.
Barn Coat with Jeans and a Sweater
There is just something extra cozy about a barn coat. They are big enough to layer a shirt and sweater underneath, are delightfully warm, and look warm. They have that stylish casual vibe that is just perfect for a winter bonfire. You can also dress a barn coat either up or down. For a more sophisticated look, go for yoga pants and a cashmere turtleneck with Chelsea boots. For pure comfort with a more casual vibe, jeans or leggings, your favorite flannel shirt, and sneakers will do the job.
Accessories Are Important
Don’t forget a hat and gloves! It’s easy to get used to the warmth of the fire and the fun of visiting with friends and drinking cocoa or making smores and overlook the fact that your fingers and ears need insulation. At least stash a pair of gloves in your pockets and bring some ear warmers with you. If you are dealing with some serious cold, keep in mind that mittens are warmer than gloves. Having four fingers next to each other helps to keep your body heat in and will keep you cozier. Another great accessory to bring to a winter bonfire is a fleece throw. You can wrap it around you and your sweetheart as you snuggle by the fire, use it as a picnic blanket or “chair warmer,” or roll it up as a pillow to lounge on.
Don’t Forget the Snacks
If you want to be the belle of the bonfire, bring snacks! Whether it’s a big thermos of cocoa or coffee or hot toddies for the crew, everyone will appreciate a warm beverage. Easy-to-eat finger food is also important. Everything from snack bars and snack mix to hot dogs and smores are good options. If you want to cook hot dogs or roast marshmallows, make sure that there will be roasting tools available so you won’t burn yourselves. You can throw everything into the cooler you would use during the summer and not have to worry about ice.
Now go bundle up, get out there, and have fun!