The ongoing battle against winter is clearly here again, and as it’s late January, we’re about to get into the thick of it.

One issue we always have is trying to maintain our mega-fashion sense without lowering our self esteem (also known as the winter-induced-fashion-blues).

Here are our top tips in how to keep the fashion bar high when the temperature dips low.

1. Layers are key (just make sure they’re not all thick).

2. If going out, put the focus on texture (because your skirt length can obviously only be so short)

3. Skip the nasty blend materials (this is Canada people, if you plan to live here for more than a year, you need to invest)

For a casual day time look we recommend wearing longer lean pieces that are shape conscious but will also keep you warm. Pops of colour will keep the look from looking too depressing (it’s winter and seeing as it gets dark at 5 we can all use a lil bit of colour in our lives. No S-A-D for you).

When going for a dressier look (and you like to stick with black) throw on some edgy pieces to keep the look fresh (a thicker, more stable heel is your friend and tights will keep you toasty.

Investing in good winter pieces will be something you’ll never regret. Some good brands are Mackage (for interesting and warm winter coats), Pringle of Scotland (thick knits) and Hunter (rainboots are one of the best things to have in winter – waterproof and if you get the socks, guaranteed warmth).

WORDS BY MICA LE J (follow her on Twitter)