Guide
When it's below zero outside and 70+ inside, your outfit needs to be easy to layer up or down. This guide covers how to layer effectively, what hats, shoes, and gloves to choose, how to handle the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, and how to dress both warm and photogenic for photos.
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In Xinjiang, winter temperature swings aren't just between day and night—they're also drastic indoors versus outdoors. Outside can drop below -10°C, while inside it may reach over 20°C. The key is layering: wear clothes you can easily add or remove, rather than one heavy outfit that's too much for indoors.
Dress in layers: remove the outer layer indoors, put it back on when heading out. No more fumbling when going in and out throughout the day.
How to configure three layers#
Wear a moisture-wicking base layer; cotton retains sweat and can lead to chills. The mid-layer, such as fleece or down, provides insulation. The outer layer should be windproof and waterproof, like a down jacket or hardshell, to block wind and snow. Pants follow the same two-layer approach: thermal leggings underneath and windproof/waterproof snow pants or heavy trousers on top.
Don't buy an overly thick coat. Indoor temperatures are high, and a heavy jacket will be cumbersome to remove and carry upon entry. A medium-weight down jacket paired with a good mid-layer offers greater flexibility.
- Inner layer: Moisture-wicking base layer; avoid cotton against the skin.
- Mid-layer: Fleece or lightweight down; adjust based on temperature.
- Outer layer: Windproof and waterproof; longer cut to cover the hips for extra wind protection.
- Accessories: Hat, scarf, gloves, thick socks—don't skip a single item.
Shoes and gloves are often overlooked.
Shoes should be waterproof and slip-resistant with treaded soles; snow boots are more practical than regular sneakers. Wear thick wool socks—regular cotton socks won't cut it in freezing temps. Choose gloves that allow finger movement for taking photos or using your phone; if you're prone to cold, layer thin gloves inside larger ones. A hat must cover your ears, and a neck gaiter is safer than a long scarf since it won't get caught on things.
Size up slightly so your toes have room to move in thick socks; overly tight boots actually make your feet colder. If the boot exterior gets wet while walking in snow, dry it immediately—wet boots are far more uncomfortable than cold ones.
II. Handling Indoor Entry and Exit#
Remove your outer layer first and shake off the snow before hanging it up. Put on your hat and gloves indoors before heading out to minimize time spent at the entrance. After sweating, wait until your body cools down before removing your mid-layer. Snow often sticks to shoe soles after walking on snow; tap them on a mat upon entering to prevent slipping.
Hang the jacket in a well-ventilated area; it will be dry by the next day, making a noticeable difference in comfort. Since the room is dry, place a cup of water near the heater before bed to add moisture.
III. What to wear for photos#
Snowy backgrounds are bright; dark clothing can look heavy. Light and bright colors photograph better. Pick one item—hat, neck warmer, or gloves—in a bold color to create a focal point. For photos, you can layer the outer piece over your mid-layer for a few shots; move quickly to stay warm.
If your shoes don't match your outfit, crop to the upper body in photos or hide them behind a snowdrift. Plan your composition beforehand to minimize time adjusting in the wind.
IV. What to Pack#
Pack gloves, a scarf, lip balm, and small tissues in your day bag for indoor and outdoor use. Bring an extra pair of socks and gloves to change into if they get wet. See the universal packing list for all seasons and climates below.This oneCheck ski and safety gearSki Gear PrepFor sun protection and hydration, checkThis one。
Styling for different occasions
For city walks, wear one layer less; frequent indoor access makes heavy coats cumbersome. For outdoor snow viewing and skiing, prepare for the coldest conditions—wind chill can make it feel significantly colder than the actual temperature. Dress separately for each scenario and switch throughout the day.
Take off your neck gaiter and hat while taking photos or exercising to avoid overheating. Remove your outer layer before getting in the car or entering indoors, and put it back on when you go out—no matter how big the temperature difference, you'll stay comfortable.
For color coordination, choose a main color for the coat and pair it with matching or contrasting shades for the hat and scarf to keep the look cohesive. For family outings, stick to one color scheme across everyone's outfits for neat, polished group photos.
If your shoes don't match your outfit, go for neutral-colored snow boots—they're versatile and practical. Pack an extra set of gloves and a scarf so you have a dry pair ready to swap in if the first one gets wet, ensuring you're never caught empty-handed during photos.
Pack one set for indoors and one for outdoors in your luggage. You can use them immediately upon arrival without rummaging through your bags.
Warmth and style don't have to be mutually exclusive. Follow this approach, and you won't have to sacrifice one for the other.
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