Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I lived the past 32-years of my life in warm climates and now, for work, I moved to a place with a real winter. I saw snow for maybe the fifth time in my life and knew I wasn't ready for this climate change clothing wise. Any tips on getting a guy ready for winter without having me overdo it? I can withstand most of the cold, just maybe a few suggestions on where to get a good jacket.

Signed,

Cold Weather Warrior

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Dear C.W.W.,

If there was ever a moment to get on a soap box to vent about men not being properly dressed for winter weather its now. For whatever reason fellas, most of you seem content with having one universal wardrobe that is somehow always slanted towards being dressed for warm weather even in the dead of winter. Countless guys seem to brave the cold with their shoulders raised, head lowered and hands shoved into their pockets. It's deplorable.

So in addition to the tips provided in this previous post, you may benefit from a few others. Look for fine gauge sweaters and trousers made of wool (think merino and cashmere for sweaters; select wool trousers with a silk lining to avoid irritation); a wool overcoat for work and semi-formal occasions; corduroy pants (look for a thinner wale unless you want your pants to age you by 20 years) and rubber overshoes when weather conditions threaten your footwear.

And don't forget to add a few winter accessories to your newly acquired winter wardrobe. Despite the grievous misconception, guys do in fact wear scarves, gloves, hats and extra layers when the weather calls for it. Or at least the smart ones do. Trying to be cool in winter just makes you look...cold.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

This cold weather is giving me really dry skin. Any advice on a winter moisturizing routine?

Signed,

All Dried Out

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Dear A.D.O.,

Winter's can be really tough on skin for all the reasons you're already thinking: frigid temperatures + undetectable humidity = dry, sometimes itchy, skin. It should also be pointed out that heating systems and hot showers are also contributing to your dried out epidermis.

So for starters, try showering at night in warm water and lathering yourself in lotion after drying off. Limit your showers to just the one at night and plan it once you know you won't be heading back out into the cold moisture-wicking air. Before or during your shower is also a great time to exfoliate the skin and rid it of damaged, dry skin cells. Look for face washes, shower sponges and/or loofahs and pumice stones that will help scrub the skin but without being so abrasive that it does more harm than good.

Also think of investing in a humidifier to keep the air in your home (and office) moist. The obvious benefit here is this machine will prevent your skin from drying out as quickly and retain what moisture your lipid layer is able to produce.

You also want to think of moisturizing from within. Keep skin looking hydrated by drinking the daily recommended amount of water each day. Exercising in the winter also helps promote healthy looking skin because of the increased blood flow and circulation. And it should almost go without saying, but dress appropriately for cold weather. Protect your hands, head and feet with proper winter accessories. If you wear a skirt, pair it with tights. Wear layers when the temperature calls for it, but be sure that you are kept warm and dry through breathable fabric.

Other recommendations: sunscreen to keep your face protected from harmful UV rays that are present even in cold weather; sleeping in moisturizing gloves and socks at night; keep a travel-sized bottle of lotion with you to be applied after washing your hands in a public restroom; invest in a moisturizing lip balm.

If your skin still appears dry after putting an ample amount of these suggestions into your routine you may want to consult a dermatologist to be sure you don't have eczema. Either way, with proper care and diligence you should be able to get through this winter, and those ahead, with little trouble and even less troubled skin.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I recently moved to NYC. As winter quickly approaches I would like to start preparing for the cold, but I don't own ANYthing suitable. I am a woman but have a more masculine fashion sense (i.e. I haven't bought girl clothes in almost 10 years). Where are some good places to shop/things to buy that I can stay warm for not a TON of money??

Signed,

Thin Blooded Southern Belle

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Dear T.B.S.B.,

First, you're going to want to try layering what you already have. Once it starts to get really cold your first purchase needs to be of several pairs of thermal underclothing - and that includes socks. As long as you have these on you'll never need as many layers on, which will help decrease the bulkiness of your outfit but still amp up your warmth.

Next, you're going to need to invest in a goose down jacket. Most brands that carry this type of jacket have a large selection of cuts, colors and styles, but look at going up one size to accommodate for layering. I would also advise to err on the side of caution and get one that hits at least to your knees. (Trust me on this. You'll thank me later.)

Last but not least, you'll want to purchase a few accessory essentials: namely, a scarf, hat, gloves and galoshes. My personal suggestion on the scarf, hat and gloves would be to stay away from dark neutrals like black and gray so its easier to be spotted in a crowd. The galoshes will be good for walking to work and running errands on the weekends. They'll preserve your shoes from unnecessary damage and its as simple as rinsing them off if they ever start to look a little weathered from the weather.

There are a lot of things I love about New York, but the winters aren't one of them. But if you can make it through this winter you'll have made it through one of the toughest cities, during one of its toughest seasons. If you can do that you just may earn the privilege of calling New York home.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com