Stay Stylish and Warm: Dressing Tips for Winter in Chicago

Looking for a guide on what to wear in Chicago in winter? Keep reading!

What does an artist, a beach bum, a fashion enthusiast, a business person, or a sports fan have in common? A bit tough? Okay, let me rephrase the question – where does an artist, a beach bum, a fashion enthusiast, a business person, or a sports fan can go together and still have fun? The answer is simple – Chicago. 

Also known as ‘the windy city’ – thanks to the geographic location of the city on the banks of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a magnet for tourists from all around the world. Apart from its rich culture, art institutes, architecture, fashion, skyscrapers, and traders, Chicago is also famous for its winter. Winter in Chicago is magical and through this blog, I am going to take you through what to wear in Chicago in winter.

Introduction

Before we get into the crust of the discussion, here is a little something if you are not familiar with the city.

Welcome to Chicago’s Winter Wonderland

Chicago is a city in northeastern Illinois and the county seat of Cook. Chicago is the largest metropolis in the state and the third most populous city in the United States, with a population that hovers around three million. The city lies on the shores of the freshwater Lake Michigan which has contributed a lot- not just to the moderation of the climate but to the development of the city as such. Another interesting geographical fact about Chicago is that it rests on a continental divide at Chicago Portage. 

In Chicago, the seasons are hot, humid, and rainy in the summer; cold, windy, and partly cloudy in the winter. The average annual temperature ranges from 22°F to 83°F, with lows of 5°F and highs of 91°F being rare.

The most popular period of the year to travel to Chicago for warm-weather activities, according to the tourism score, is from mid-June to mid-September.

The winters in Chicago are an enchanted time of year. The city displays all of its splendor, including decked-out businesses, streets lined with thousands of lights, ice skating, celebrations, and a real, living Christmas tree that towers over Michigan Avenue and was cut down from a local’s property. One of the nicest ice skating rinks can be found in downtown Chicago. Ice skating in the middle of a busy city is a classic winter pastime.

The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is the most well-liked. You will be skating close to Cloud Gate and only steps from the Art Institute of Chicago in Millennium Park.

You can also ride the Centennial Wheel. You may think it’s madness riding a wheel that will take you 200 ft. above the ground when it’s freezing but no worries because the cars are weather controlled. So, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the snow-covered city without worrying about the temperature.

You can reach Chicago via air if you are coming from outside the US. The most famous airport is the Chicago O’Hare International Airport. If you are someone from the US and have some time to spare, there is nothing like a road trip to Chicago.

Understanding Chicago’s Winter Climate

Temperature Range and Variations

Chicago often receives all seasons pretty distinctively. The summers can be humid and hot with spring and autumn cooling down the temperature and paving the way for a snowy winter. The main reason for this is the presence of Lake Michigan. 

Summer in Chicago usually starts from June to August. This is the time when the city experiences scorching heat and UV rays. I can go up to 43 degrees Celsius on some days. 

The Chicago summer nights can also be cooler at times thanks to the presence of light showers. Autumn follows Summer and is also a close second in heavy heat. Winters are cold, dry, and snowy which can go up to -20 degrees Celsius on extreme snow days. The most volatile season of them all in Chicago is spring. 

While winters in Chicago usually start from November-December, they can go up to March-April. The length of the season is measured by the time gap between the first and the last snowfall of the season. When winter lasts longer in a season, the spring gets cut short and there can be heavy thunder atoms and hail storms during those times. This usually happens during March. The average high and low temperature can vary heavily in March.

Below is a list of average highs and lows in Chicago for each month for your reference.

Wind Chill Factor

In most cases, the degree of cold is determined by a thermometer reading. However, to produce a “wind chill factor” to affect individuals and other living things, both temperature, as well as wind speed, are required. The body temperature drops as the wind picks up speed because heat is rapidly removed from the body. The risk of hypothermia or frostbite can be estimated using the wind chill, which measures how cold exposed flesh feels in the wind.
The wind chill of minus 82 degrees is the lowest ever measured in Chicago, and it is a weather record that is unlikely to be surpassed.

Snowfall, whiteout, and Precipitation

Even though Chicago is regarded as a Windy City, other weather-related events could make you gasp when you’re there. In some years, the first snowfall occurs in October; in others, there is little to no snowfall into December.

In general, they forecast intermittent snowfall from November to March, with April occasionally seeing a dusting. In general, they forecast intermittent snowfall from November to March, with April occasionally seeing a dusting. 32.8 inches of snow were reported in 2021–2022.

A “whiteout” was generated over the waters of the Great Lakes due to snow that was blowing and the bitter cold. That is a great deal of cold, snow, and ice.

Layering Basics: The Key to Staying Warm with Kosha

Importance of Layering in Cold Weather

Another crucial aspect to take into account when trying to stay warm in chilly weather is layering. Instead of just one thick covering, it’s important to dress in layers. More heat can be trapped between the layers as a result, keeping you warmer.
A layer that will be able to able to absorb the moisture away from the skin and will help keep perspiration away from your skin, should be the first layer you wear. An insulating layer, that will hold heat between the layers, should be placed as the second layer. A preventive layer, such as a windproof or waterproof jacket, should be the third layer.

By layering, you may adapt your degree of comfort as the temperature changes by adding or eliminating layers. It is essential when you spend a lot of time outside. You can stay warm and avoid risky exposure to chilly weather by using an effective layering technique. By shielding you from chilly factors like wind, snow, freezing rain, etc. appropriate layering will help you preserve your core body heat.

How Layering Works

Staying warm is less about just adding bulky layers one over the other, and rather about wearing the layers in the right order and choosing the right fabric for each layer. 

In Chicago, since the weather is pretty distinct, it is important to follow the correct layering order.

One should always start with the base layer. It can be of merino wool or any other wool that has quick moisture absorption properties, lightweight, and temperature regulating. You don’t want your thermal to restrict you while you are taking your stroll in Lincoln Park or just cozying up in your apartment. 

After the base layer, comes the mid-layer. Sweaters, sweatshirts, pullovers, or hoodies are all part of the mid-layer category and can keep you warm. You need to wear it over your base layer. If you are planning on taking a long pleasant walk on the North Branch Trail to the Chicago Botanical Garden, this can be perfect.

Outer layers or jackets are a must when the temperature is below 5 degrees Celsius and there is wind, snow, or rain. Invest in a waterproof jacket to protect you from the weather. You can wear a good jacket over your stylish dress or your comfortable hoodie. This can also be the perfect companion when you are planning your Christmas shopping on Michigan Avenue.

Last, but not least, do not forget your accessories. Invest in quality woolen accessories. They can keep your extremities warm and safe. Also, try to forego animal products like leather shoes or leather gloves and opt for environment-friendly organic products.

Layering Materials: Choosing the Right Fabrics with Kosha

Kosha is an Indian winter travel wear brand that focuses on delivering sustainable and travel-friendly winter clothes across the globe. We mostly focus on the blend of Merino wool and Bamboo wool, to get the finest results, especially so that no harm would come to the environment. Many of our customers, especially students moving to Chicago have often marveled at the collection and the technicalities behind the clothing design. Customers especially love that all the winter apparel is rather lightweight and warm.

Kosha did not become a brand overnight, it took a lot of hard work, dedication, and creativity to give our customers satisfaction. We have a legacy of 30 years and 10000+ happy customers.

Even though Kosha is a Mumbai-based brand, the products are shipped globally through marketplaces like Amazon & Myntra. They also have a dedicated e-commerce website that has all their products listed for the wanderers. You just have to add the product to the cart, proceed with the checkout, pay the amount and they will ship your product to the address. Their shipping is free throughout India. 

Essential Winter Wear for Chicago

Outerwear like puffer jackets and parkas

The first thing you need when you are stepping out to the cold winter breeze of Chicago is a good warm coat or jacket. Jackets are outerwear that is worn outside your regular clothes to keep you warm and protect you from external factors like wind, snow, or rain. 

Given the temperamental characteristics of the Chicago winter, it is always wise to invest in a quality fleece-lined jacket with a hoodie. It could be a waterproof puffer jacket that is lightweight or a hooded parka jacket for those extremely cold days.

You can check out warm jackets for men here | Warm jackets for women here.

Sweaters and Pullovers

Sweaters, sweatshirts, or pullovers are what are worn beneath your jackets to add extra warmth to your body. They are commonly known as mid-layer, as it is what is worn in between your base layers and the outer layers. They are usually made of warm or woolen fabric. 

All three of these mid-layers, even though serve the same purpose, differ in terms of their styling. Sweaters and cardigans are suitable for a formal setting whereas pullovers and sweatshirts are perfect for a laidback party scenario.

You can check out neat sweaters for men here | Neat sweaters for women here

You can check out comfy sweatshirts for men here | Comfy sweatshirts for women here

You can check out stylish pullovers for men here | Stylish pullovers for women here

Baselayers 

Baselayers, also known as thermals, are the first piece of winter layering article that is worn over your undergarments. They make your body dry and warm. Their primary duty is to absorb moisture from your body and keep your body fresh. 

It is common for your body to sweat even in the winter, especially if you are wearing a lot of layers or if you are into outdoor activities. In this case, wearing a base layer can absorb the sweat from your body and keep you fresh. 

It is important to invest in a good quality thermal layer because they are closest to your skin and you do not want any fabric that is rough or can cause you itchiness. It is advisable to go for a Merino wool thermal during Chicago winters. 

You can check out Merino wool thermals for men here | Merino wool thermals for women here.

Woolen bottoms – Snow Pants

Another important cold-weather outfit that needs to be on your packing list is the winter bottoms. Winter bottoms could be good woolen thermal bottoms to keep you warm and dry or waterproof snow pants to help you navigate through the ankle-deep snow in Chicago winter.

You can check out Merino wool thermal bottoms for men here | Merino wool thermal bottoms for women here

You can check out ski pants for men here | Ski pants for women here.

Warm accessories

Accessories are something that needs to be included as an all-weather outfit. Depending on the seasonality, the fabric can vary and can keep you comfortable. They include beanies/caps, scarves/mufflers, or gloves to keep your extremities warm. 

Accessories also have the power to elevate your look and it is one place where you can add a splash of color to your otherwise plain winter landscape. 

You can check out accessories for men here | Accessories for women here.

Additional Tips for Cold Weather Survival

Choosing Appropriate Footwear

Something that you need to pay special attention to while packing for Chicago winter is your shoes. Make sure that your boots are warm and have a great grip. When you need to walk through the snow this helps, and December in Chicago would see you need a lot of grips!

You can check out winter boots for men here | Winter boots for women here.

Warm socks 

The last but one of the most important winter accessories that you need to make note of is good warm socks. You would need a pair of comfortable socks not just to cushion your legs when going out but to keep your feet warm on those chilly nights. 

Merino wool is the best option when choosing socks fabric. Also, try to invest in a pair that has anti-odor properties.

You can check out winter socks for men here | Winter socks for women here.

Protecting Your Head, Hands, and Neck

You should always cover your head when you are outdoors in Chicago as the winter there is harsh and you lose half of your body heat through the top of your head. Also, do not forget the exposed parts of the neck, and use a warm muffler to keep your neck covered warm and covered. This is because the cold can enter the exposed regions of the neck.
Wear gloves that are snug at the wrist. They offer protection from the harsh winds of Chicago.

Your fingertips may freeze significantly more quickly in gloves than in mittens. To prevent the lungs from the chilly air, cover both the nose and mouth with a scarf.

Maintaining Body Heat: Dos and Don’ts

Eating meals that are well-balanced will keep you warmer. Avoid drinking alcohol or coffee since they make your body lose heat more quickly. Instead, savor warm, sugary drinks or soups to help you stay warm. Consult your doctor if you suffer from any restrictions on your diet.

Always try to breathe through your nose rather than your mouth. When the air enters it is warmer and made more humid via your nose than by your mouth.
As often as possible, people with asthma or COPD should engage in exercise and other activities. Even if you have a chronic lung illness, regular exercise is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. The appropriate kind and amount of exercise provide a lot of advantages.

Put on multiple layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothes (the air that is trapped within the layers insulates). To prevent perspiration and the consequent chill, layers can be taken off. Wear outerwear that is hooded, firmly woven, and waterproof.

Enjoying Chicago in Winter: Activities and Attractions in 2023

Despite the weather, winter in Chicago may still be a fantastic time to visit.

In Chicago, winter happens to be one of the most enchanted seasons of the year because snow lends the city an extra shine. Accept the weather and go on a winter adventure, which can include everything from ice skating beneath Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”) to skiing and snowshoeing close to the lakefront’s blanket of snow.
However, that shouldn’t hinder you from taking in the city, its stunning architecture, and its exquisite cuisine!

Winter Sports and Outdoor Activities

• Millennium Park ice skating is a beloved Chicago tradition. Each winter, two distinctive public ice rinks are located in the downtown park. On the free skating rink, you can skate around.
• On Northerly Island, a man-made peninsula that protrudes into Lake Michigan immediately east of Soldier Field, you may go snowshoeing. Whoosh down meandering nature pathways where you may see the breathtaking Chicago cityscape and wintertime birds.
• The free Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is open every day of the year. Admire gorgeous polar bears, penguins, and snow monkeys as they run around in winter.

Must-Visit Winter Festivals and Events

• Experiencing the annual Winterfest in Chicago is among the most exciting and enjoyable winter activities in Chicago for both visitors and locals. An indoor event that promises thrilling entertaining events for the whole family, including performances, games in arcades, and an enclosed ice rink.
• Then we have the 55-foot tall Christmas tree at Millennium Park decorated beautifully for the festivities of Christmas.
• The 2.5-acre river façade of theMART is covered in the biggest continuous digital artistic projection in the world, called Art on theMART. “The Nutcracker” by the Joffrey Ballet is part of their winter collection. The famous play is of 30 minutes and is presented for the enjoyment of the audience.

Indoor Attractions and Museums

• Visit one of Chicago’s free indoor botanical gardens or conservatories to stay warm. The historic Lincoln Park is home to the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a free attraction with multiple exhibits devoted to exotic plants and flowers.
• There are many places to have a cup of cocoa in Chicago. Try the delicious drinking chocolate from Katherine Anne Confections or a cup of Mexican hot chocolate.
• It’s possible that few people are aware of this, yet Chicago is renowned for its art collections and museums, with The Art Institute of Chicago ranking among the most well-known institutions nationwide. It is even preferable to pay a visit to this museum in Chicago during the winter specifically since there will be fewer visitors and you can see the museum in its entirety.

Customer Testimonials: Hear from Happy Kosha Customers

Personal Experiences with Kosha Winter Wear

Kosha has made 10000+ customers happy by focusing on keeping them comfortable and warm through their winter apparel which apparently has a legacy of being tested for 30 years.

One of the customers of Kosha – Shivani Singh says, “The travel wear in Kosha is just spectacular! They have gear that has extremely great technical features which are essential for adventure trips but their clothing is also Eco-conscious. To add to this, one of the staff members was very helpful and well informed about how the clothing would support in different weathers. Great place to get really good quality gear for winter adventure activities especially here in Mumbai, I would go as far as to say the best.” 

How Kosha Helped in Staying Warm in Chicago

Kosha is a brand that is known for its Winter clothing. The specialty of this brand is that not only is the winter clothing made of the softest of materials to keep the wearer comfortable as well as warm but it is also eco-friendly. Kosha mainly focuses on Merino wool and Bamboo wool to make their clothing.

As a winter clothing brand that provides all the necessary items one would deem necessary for a very cold winter, Kosha has proved very helpful to customers who are traveling to Chicago. They would have everything, from a pair of socks to waterproof and snowproof Parka jackets for both men and women. Kosha offers a lot of flexibility to the customer by providing them with exactly what they need, whether it be a reversible beanie or a water-wicking baselayer.

FAQs

Well, if you were planning to go to Chicago, you might have a good idea about a lot of things now. But if you still want a little more specific details, you might want to keep reading.

Is Chicago too cold in winter?

The Windy City is indeed as chilly as people say. If you’re moving to Chicago, you might not be accustomed to the chilly winters. The average temperature in Chicago is 26.4F, and there is an annual snowfall of 28.1 inches.

What month does it start snowing in Chicago?

In some years, the first snowfall occurs in October, while in others, there is little to no snowfall into December. In general, they forecast occasional snowfall from November to March, with April occasionally seeing a dusting.

What is Chicago fashion style?

Dark hues and angular forms are hallmarks of Chicago fashion. The inhabitants of this city prioritize warmth, yet they also have a keen sense of style when it comes to puffy coats and fleece. Denim jeans, skirts, and jackets in every cut and color are a year-round fashion must-have in Chicago. Chicagoans that care about fashion enjoy wearing tight-fitting jeggings and slim jeans with edgy knee-high or ankle boots.

What kind of jacket do I need for Chicago winter?

A quality, fleece-lined, hooded jacket is always a good investment given the unpredictable nature of the Chicago winter. It can be a thin, waterproof puffer jacket or, for the iciest days, a hooded parka jacket.

How should I dress for Chicago in December?

In Chicago, everyone should pack a winter coat, hoodie, gloves, scarves, and hat for December. When the weather is under 5 degrees and especially when there are winds, snow, or rain, you must wear outer layers or jackets. Purchase a waterproof jacket to keep you dry and protected from the elements. An excellent jacket can be worn over a trendy dress or a cozy hoodie.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! We’ve covered some essential dressing tips to help you stay stylish and warm during the winter in Chicago. Remember, the Windy City’s winters can be quite brutal, but with the right clothing choices, you can conquer the cold without sacrificing your style.

Investing in quality winter wear is crucial. And if you’re on the hunt for reliable winter wear that combines style and functionality, look no further than Kosha. With their wide range of winter clothing options, you can find the perfect pieces to suit your style and keep you cozy all season long.

So, why wait? Don’t let the cold weather dampen your style. Head over to Kosha and browse their collection of winter wear today. Embrace the winter in Chicago with confidence, knowing that you’re equipped with the right clothing to keep you both stylish and warm.

Remember, it’s possible to stay cozy and fashionable even in the face of freezing temperatures. So layer up, bundle up, and embrace the winter wonderland that is Chicago!

Stay warm, stay stylish, and enjoy the beauty of Chicago in winter!