11 Winter Fashion Hacks to Brave the Cold in Style

Winter dressing can feel like a game of roulette. One minute you’re bundled up like a burrito, and the next, you’re peeling off layers in an overheated office. And let’s not forget the static cling the dry air brings along! That’s why we’ve gathered 11 winter fashion hacks to keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable, no matter what the frosty season throws your way.

Winter shoe hacks

1. Dry out wet shoes

Stepped in an icy puddle? Got caught in an unexpected snowstorm? Wet shoes are cold and uncomfortable – and the moisture can damage them over time. Here’s how to dry them out:

• Avoid using a hairdryer, especially on leather or suede, as it can cause further damage.
• Instead, stuff your damp shoes with crumpled newspaper. It’ll absorb moisture and help your shoe retain its original shape.
• For an extra drying boost, toss in a few silica gel packets to speed up drying (like the ones that come in new purses or shoe boxes).

2. Conquer salt stains on shoes

Salt stains are another winter woe, especially on leather boots. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, then dab the solution onto salt stains with a clean microfiber cloth. Gently wipe and watch the salt marks vanish!

3. Waterproof your shoes

Brave the snow and slush without ruining your favorite kicks by waterproofing them. Here’s how to waterproof based on material:

• For canvas, rub beeswax over them, then melt it in with a hairdryer on a low setting. This creates a protective barrier that repels moisture. Just remember to let the wax cool fully before wearing.
• For leather, use a high-quality leather-specific waterproof spray. Reapply the spray periodically.
• For suede, apply a suede protector spray. (Even after treating, be cautious about wearing suede in snow or rain, as suede is more delicate than other materials.)
• For patent leather, use a patent leather conditioner or silicone-based waterproofing spray. Patent leather is generally more resistant to moisture than suede or regular leather, but water and salt quickly dull its shine.
• For fabric or knit, like sneakers or woven athletic shoes, use a fabric protector spray. These help shield the fabric from moisture and dirt while maintaining breathability. Reapply the treatment as needed, especially after exposure to rain or snow.

4. Battle smelly boots

Banish stinky odor by sprinkling baking soda inside your boots. Leave it overnight. In the morning, shake or vacuum out the excess powder. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs moisture and neutralizes unpleasant smells.

Or, try using charcoal deodorizers. Throw these in your boots after wearing to help draw out moisture and get rid of odor-causing bacteria.

Winter tights hacks

5. Warm up chilly legs

Tights are a must-have winter accessory. They let you wear your favorite little black dress while keeping your legs warm against the cold.

• Black tights give your legs a sleek, elongated look that looks beautiful with holiday dresses and office wear.
• Nude tightsoffer a polished, natural look, adding warmth in a subtle way.
• Statement tightsare having a major moment this winter. We’re seeing lots of bold patterns, like plaid and bows, and eye-catching textures like sparkles and velvet. Statement tights transform a simple dress or skirt into a fashion-forward ensemble.

6. Prevent runs in your tights

Strengthen your tights before wearing them with these two simple tricks:

1. Spritz the tights with hairspray to strengthen the fibers, preventing runs.
2. Or, wet your tights with cool water, seal them in a plastic bag, and pop them in the freezer overnight. The cold reinforces the fabric, making your tights run-resistant and ready for action.

Winter sweater hacks

7. Rescue the shrunken sweater

Shrunk your favorite sweater? Don’t panic—here’s how to save it:

1. Soak the sweater in a small basin of lukewarm water mixed with hair conditioner, baby shampoo, or fabric softener for 30 minutes. The conditioner helps relax the sweater's fibers.
2. Roll the sweater in a towel to help remove extra moisture.
3. Gently tug on the sides to stretch it back to its original shape.
4. You may want to put books or cans on it the seams to help the sweater stay in place.
5. Lay it flat to dry. Return every hour to continue stretching until it’s back to size.

8. Solve the itchy sweater dilemma

Got an itchy sweater? Here’s how to make it soft and cuddly:

1. Soak the sweater in cold water with a few tablespoons of white vinegar for 15 minutes.
2. Afterward, massage a quality hair conditioner into the fabric and let it sit for 30 minutes. (You may want to do a test patch first to make sure the conditioner won’t damage the sweater.)
3. Rinse and lay flat to dry.
4. Once dry, put the sweater in a sealable plastic bag and place in the freezer overnight to smooth out the sweater’s fine hairs.

For long-term comfort, consider investing in high-quality sweaters, like cashmere or high-grade wool. Premium materials are less likely to irritate the skin, and they actually feel softer over time, making them a sustainable, luxe choice. You can find high-quality designer sweaters at a fraction of their original ticket price by shopping on consignment.

9. Stop sweater shedding

If your sweaters are leaving fluff everywhere, toss them in the freezer. Yes, the freezer! Seal your sweater in a plastic bag and freeze it for a few hours. This strengthens the fibers, reduces shedding, and softens the material. It’s like a spa day for your clothes.

Tip: Make sure to put the sweater in a plastic bag first to avoid it absorbing freezer odors.

10. Stop your sweaters from pilling

Sweater pilling makes even the most beautiful knitwear look worn and shabby. Pills are those little balls of tangled fibers that form on the surface of your sweater, usually in areas that experience a lot of friction, such as under the arms, along the sides, or where your bag rubs against the fabric.

To fix pilling on your favorite sweaters:

• Use a fabric comb or a sweater shaver to gently remove the pills.
• A natural pumice stone is also an effective and gentle tool for de-pilling.
• Avoid using a razor, as it can cut the threads of the fabric and damage the sweater.

Pilling is most common in low-quality synthetic blends. If you want to avoid pilling altogether, invest in higher-quality fabrics that are less prone to pilling. Look for tightly woven materials that are more resistant to fiber breakage, like merino wool, high-quality cashmere, silk, linen, and tightly woven cotton.

Winter static cling hacks

11. Banish static cling for good

Static hair and clingy clothes are always a winter annoyance, but not anymore! Here’s how to avoid them:

• Keep a dryer sheet in your purse. When you’re experiencing static cling, swipe the sheet over your clothes or hair to instantly neutralize the static.
• Pin a small safety pin inside your clothes. The metal helps discharge static electricity.
• Lightly mist your clothes with a water spray before leaving the house. A small amount of moisture can help dissipate static charge.
• Rub body lotion on your skin before getting dressed to reduce static build up between your body and clothing.
• For persistent hair static, spritz a bit of leave-in conditioner onto a hairbrush and run it through your hair. Or you can rub a small amount of natural oil, like argan or coconut oil, between your palms and smooth it over flyaways.
• Wearing natural fibers like cotton, wool, and cashmere in your wardrobe can help. These materials tend to hold less static than synthetic fabrics like polyester.

Wrapping up winter fashion hacks

Don’t let winter weather bog down your style. With these winter fashion hacks, you can keep your wardrobe looking its best through the coldest months. From waterproofing your shoes to saving your sweaters, a little extra care goes a long way.

When you’re ready to upgrade your winter wardrobe with high-quality fabrics that won’t pill or itch, shop on consignment. You’ll score timeless pieces at a fraction of the original price while making a sustainable, planet-friendly choice. Start shopping with us here.

Do you have any favorite winter fashion tips of your own? Share them with us by DMing us on Instagram @currentboutique!

Photo Sources

• Winter Shoes, Winter Tights, Winter Sweater, Static Cling