For school goers, this is the most dreadful term of the year particularly for those in mountainous areas like Nyanga, Mutoko, Hwedza for this is where Jack Frost resides in the valleys. Gweru also cannot be outdone at times like these.
Frost bites are most common while for some blue fingers like the Smurfs appear. Fogs become the order to the season.
Most schools have introduced winter uniforms to keep students warm during the season. Elementary schools even recommend their students to wear warm clothes as they attend lessons. It is really not about how you look but how warm you are during winter.
“A gentleman knows no weather” is mostly used when one wears clothes that are going against the weather. When it comes to winter, one cannot be choosy as to what to wear.
So as it is, at schools, uniforms are compulsory but what of going out for lunch or coffee with friends? How does one dress out there when not in school?
In an interview with Cool Lifestyle at the recent Zimbabwe International Carnival, most teens recommended warmth at all costs.
“I think teenagers out there should wear warm clothes that they have in order to stay warm as it is more precious to be warm than fashionable this winter,” said Memory Kasiperi, a Form Four student at Harare Girls’ High School.
Memory added that she is comfortable wearing boots both in and outdoors.
“I usually wear high-cut shoes or boots with a warm winter dress top, fashionable blazer and jeans,” she said.
Dion Kapfumvuti, a Form Two student from the same school, said it was quite clear how cold it was this year.
“I think in order to be warm during winter, one can wear skinny jeans, boots with a warm fashionable coat. At home I normally wear boots with a warm top and jersey but when outdoors I just wear something simple that’s not too tight or too loose.”
Without putting much focus on young ladies small blazers, a fashionable shirt, skinny jeans and sneakers are actually cool. For those who prefer something warmer, go for the coats.
Tracksuits have become handy during this time of the year. The good thing about tracksuit is they are unisex and trendy. When it come to wearing one, just wear with a T-shirt or top that falls in line with its colours likewise with shoes.
Too much colour blocking leads to colour shocking. And, of course, nowadays it’s all about swag, so exploring is acceptable. This is the time to take out all those clothes that have been stored away for winter. Gloves of all shapes and quality, scarves, woollen hats, ear muffs, coats are mostly unisex giving a wide choice of winter wear.
Quite a number of ideas on how to keep warm may also include foodstuffs such as soups, tea or coffee. Some exercise also helps keep the body warm as blood circulation is boosted. It is not always about jogging or the treadmill, but a simple game of double Dutch could do the trick. A jog, warm bath and warm clothes and hot drink guarantees that one will be warm throughout the day.
The most important aspect, however, this winter is being warm always. Let it be known that it is not always about fashion and swag. Consider those who do not have roofs, clothes and warmth. There are clothes you cannot fit into but are in good condition, give them off and let someone’s heart be filled with joy and warmth this cold winter.



