Fall wardrobe switch? Practical tips for expats facing cold weather for the first time

If you’re new to a country with four distinct seasons (like the Netherlands), one of the most surprising things isn’t just how early it gets dark in fall — but how quickly your wardrobe needs to completely change! One week you’re wearing your flats and  T-shirt then suddenly you need a pair of boots and need to layer like the locals.   

So today I’d like to share with you some easy, and realistic! tips on how to help you transition your wardrobe from warm to cold weather.

Start with Layering Basics

In the Netherlands (and most of Europe), fall weather can be all over the place, it’s unpredictable! It can be quite cold in the morning when you bring the kids to school or go to work, sunny in the afternoon when you pick up the kids and then windy by dinner time. So.. what do we usually do? Layering.

Here are my must-haves suggestions:

• Long-sleeve cotton shirts
• Light sweaters or cardigans
• A thin thermal top for chillier days
• A waterproof jacket or windbreaker

Store away your summer clothes.. but! not all of them.

It’s tempting to put away all your summer clothes, I agree. Because you know, summer clothes are for the summer months right? Well, I suggest not all of them. Keep a few items out that can still work for layering.

Here are my clothing must-stays suggestions:

• T-shirts for layering under cardigans or sweaters
• Dresses, those that go well with tights and boots
• Light scarves or cotton wraps

Store away:

• Flip flops, swimsuits, sleeveless tops (unless you layer them)
• Lightweight shorts

Tip: Use vacuum bags or plastic bins with labels so it’s easy to rotate things again when spring comes around. At home we have flat plastic bins that we keep under our beds.

Get some cold weather accessories

If you're not used to cold wind, your body might adjust slower — so accessories make a huge difference. These are life-savers when the weather turns!

Here are my cold weather accesory suggestions:

• Scarves (get a thick knit one for November onward!)
• Gloves (buy the touchscreen ones if you're always on your phone)
• Beanies or ear warmers (especially for the young ones when you’re out at nights)
• Thermal socks

Shop smarter, not more

You don’t need a whole new wardrobe to prepare yourself and your family for the cold weather, especially if you’re on a budget. When you shop for the cold season, look for neutral-toned items so that you can easily mix and match them with whatever you already have in your wardrobe.

Want to build a capsule wardrobe? I suggest:

• 1 good winter coat (with hood and water-resistant if possible)
• 2–3 chunky sweaters (may be a cardigan)
• 2 pairs of skinny jeans (which are great for tucking in boots)
• 1 pair of ankle boots and 1 pair of waterproof shoes
• Leggings or thermal tights for skirts

Tip: Second-hand shops in the Netherlands (like Kringloopwinkels or online platforms like Vinted) are full of gently used quality coats and boots!

Rotate & Refresh Your Closet Weekly

Make it a habit to check the weather for the coming week to prep your outfits which saves you time in the mornings - especially if you’re a busy mom, like me!  And just an idea to your wardrobe.. add a small lavender or cedar block (depending on what you prefer) to your stored clothes to keep them fresh and prevent that musty smell.

And an extra tip for your kids: give them extra pair of socks to stuff in their school bags. You’ll never know when their socks can get wet! So it’s better to have a back up for their comfort.

Final thoughts
If you’re still adjusting to life with 4 seasons, do know that this is also a learning curve! There is no perfect way to dress but there is a right way in staying warm and comfortable in what you wear.  So, have you adjusted to the fall season yet?