Even though lockdown restrictions were eased in the UAE a couple of months ago, it’s only now – with the temperature (finally) lowering – that the outside world is really open to explore. Cooler months are around the corner, and you’re officially permitted to put your “winter” wardrobe on display. We get it; seasonal wardrobes are virtually non-existent in the Middle East. While carrying a light jacket pretty much all the time (thanks to the freezing air conditioning) is common practice, if you live in the region, it is safe to assume that you don’t own a traditional winter wardrobe.
All things aside, winters in the UAE are highly underestimated. While mercury might not drop a lot below 20°C, the foggy, windy UAE winters are chilly enough to make you reach for a plush knit or cozy jacket – especially after sundown. Building a winter wardrobe for the UAE can be tricky, to say the least. With enormous coats and fuzzy layering out of the question, we combed through Instagram to find the best ways to dress for when the weather has cooled off.
Scroll down to discover winter outfit ideas that promise to keep you stylish through the colder months in the desert.
Light Layering
With a steep drop in temperature after sunset, light layering is (kind of) unavoidable. We particularly love influencer Cyrielle Verstyuft’s layered look. Her midriff floss crop top, ombre skirt, and woolen cardigan make a perfectly balanced ensemble, especially for when you’ve got a beach brunch at 3 and rooftop dinner reservations at 8.
Rib Knits
If you invest in one winter wardrobe piece this year, let it be this one: the Khaite ‘Maddy’ top. The viral top can be credited for (almost) single-handedly bringing back deep sweetheart necklines. Versatile, trendy, and warm, the rib-knit top can be paired with virtually every pair of bottoms you own.
Bulky Jumpers
Bulky jumpers might come as a surprise; nevertheless, they are a UAE winter wardrobe essential. Reserved only for the coldest, windiest moments, a woolen jumper will promise to keep you comfortable on your “glamping” trips.
Hoodies
If you’ve been drooling over Pangaia hoodies like us, now’s the time to stock up on them. While the organic co-ord sets pretty much style themselves, if you want to make a statement, a color-blocked loungewear look à la Dana Hourani is the way to go.
Leather
Leather was undeniably a winner on the Fall/Winter 2020 runways, with designers using the tough fabric to design everything from skirts to shirtdresses to sexy leather slip dresses. The snug fabric guarantees to keep you warm –at least as far as a Middle Eastern winter is considered.
Knit Dresses
When it comes to winter dressing in the UAE, consider knit or sweater dresses to be your BFF. Short, long, sleeveless, puff-sleeved, oversized, or form-fitting, knit dresses can be styled up or down, all while keeping you warm.
Boots
If you love boots as much as we do, we’re sure there’s nothing that’s going to stop you from wearing them — not even living in the desert. Oumayma Elboumeshouli’s uber-chic fall look has got us wishing we could (literally) walk in her shoes.
All products featured on Savoir Flair are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn affiliate commissions.
