The South African winter has arrived with its usual freezing temperatures. But just because it’s winter, it doesn’t mean you have an excuse to hide under bulky, ill-fitting clothes.

Danelle Milward, Marketing Director at Captive8 House of Fashion – a clothing range catering specifically for women between sizes 16 and 24, says “Just because you’re curvy doesn’t mean that you have to dress unfashionably. Remember ladies – fleece is NOT a fashion statement! Rather, use three light-weight layers to create warmth with style. When done right, layering can create a slimmer appearance and mask any areas you’d rather not flaunt.”

Here’s our three step plan to achieve your winter wonderful.  

Step one: Don’t add bulk to bulk! Limit yourself to three layers. Wear a thin fabric such as a plain t-shirt or vest closest to your skin. The second layer can be a little thicker, perhaps a dress shirt or turtle neck. To finish off add a chic tailored coat or gilet. The Nicky wool coat from Captive8 is a great example of a cleverly designed top-layer item that adds warmth without adding bulk, because it’s cut to fall like a gilet, in a soft, flexible, yet warm fabric. The Captive8 winter range also has three great gilets in light-weight yet warm fabrics. 

Step two: Play with colour! Just because it’s dull and grey outside doesn’t mean your clothes have to be too. Use dark colours to camouflage the areas of your body you want to down-play, and brighter, lighter colours to accentuate the layering effect, optically split the body into smaller areas, and to draw attention to your best features. Captive8’s Olidee top is the perfect trendy colourful layering piece. The v-neck elongates your neck and draws attention away from a larger bust.

Step three: Accessorise! Accessorise! Accessorise! When it comes to adding accessories to a layered outfit, kept it simple. Layers mean you already have enough going on, so pick one statement piece. Invest in chunky jewellery, light bright coloured scarves, woolly hats, belts and gloves to add flare and colour to your outfit. Use accessories to make your outfit pop but don’t clutter it.

Our final piece of advice: Curvy or not, as a general rule, you should never dress in anything you do not feel comfortable in. Always go for what works best for you. If you look in the mirror and something looks off, it probably is. If in doubt about your colour choices, stick to neutrals and add accessories to jazz up your look. Keep it simple, casual but stylish.