Layer up your family for a warm and cosy winter with these essentials

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Jul 31, 2024 · 9 mins read
Layer up your family for a warm and cosy winter with these essentials

Winter hasn’t even begun and you’re already finding yourself curled under the blankets, unable to escape the cold, and losing all hope in the feeling of warmth. Because even a slight drop in temperature here in Australia feels like we need to pull out the heaters.


It’s time to return to the art of layers. Breathable, comfy, and perfectly cosy – bonus points if it’s cute too (just because it’s winter doesn’t mean we need to through fashion out the window). 

From base layers to outerwear and everything in between, we’re walking you through it, one layer at a time. So, put that blanket away and grab your wallet cause we’re going shopping.

When it comes to beating the cold, there are two stores that stand out: UNIQLO and Kathmandu. Both are renowned for their quality winter gear, offering a wide range of options to keep you warm and stylish during the chillier months. Whether you’re looking for versatile basics or high-performance outerwear, these stores have got you covered.

Starting with the base layers


Just like a building needs a solid foundation to stay up, you need base layers to stay warm. Base layers act as the foundation of your winter outfit, providing insulation and moisture management to keep you comfortable in any weather conditions. At the end of the day, it’s always the not-so-visible components that are most important. 

Pro-tip; try to avoid light-weight ones and aim for base layers made from materials like merino wool, synthetic blends, or silk. This way you’ll be sure to maintain excellent insulation and avoid any moisture creeping in. 

Here are our top picks for base layers:

KATHMANDU KMDCore Singlet (UNISEX)
This is a versatile and durable singlet designed by Kathmandu for both men and women. Constructed with KMDCore fabric, it offers exceptional moisture-withstanding properties that ensure comfort is maintained during intense workouts or outdoor activities. Its unisex design makes it suitable for a wide range of body types, while its sleek and minimalistic look adds style to your active wardrobe.

UNIQLO 100% Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater (Women)
This turtleneck sweater from UNIQLO will leave you feeling luxurious and elegant with its ribbed texture. Crafted from 100% extra fine Merino wool, it offers supreme softness and warmth, leaving the bulkiness behind. Its timeless design and feminine silhouette make it a versatile wardrobe staple, perfect for layering or wearing on its own to stay cosy and chic throughout any season.

UNIQLO HEATTECH Cotton EXTRA WARM Waffle Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt (Men)
This long-sleeved t-shirt for men is definitely going to keep you warm and get you some much-deserved attention. It combines innovative HEATTECH technology with cotton comfort. The waffle knit texture adds visual interest while enhancing warmth, making it ideal for layering during chilly days. Designed to retain heat and keep moisture away from the body, this shirt ensures all-day comfort and functionality – the perfect base layer.

UNIQLO KIDS HEATTECH Cotton EXTRA WARM Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt (Kids)
Engineered with HEATTECH technology, this shirt is most suitable. It provides exceptional heat retention and moisture-wicking properties to keep kids comfortable during outdoor play or cold weather outings. Its classic crew neck design and soft cotton fabric make it a must-have essential for every child’s wardrobe.

UNIQLO HEATTECH Cotton EXTRA WARM Leggings (Women)
Crafted from innovative HEATTECH fabric, these leggings offer superior heat retention, keeping you comfortable in colder temperatures. The soft, stretchy material ensures a snug fit without sacrificing freedom of movement, making them perfect for layering under skirts, dresses, or pants.

UNIQLO HEATTECH Cotton EXTRA WARM Long Johns (Men)
Featuring advanced HEATTECH technology, these long johns maintain the perfect temperature to ensure your legs stay well-protected from the cold all day. The stretchy fabric and elastic waistband provide a secure fit without restricting movement, making them an essential base layer for colder climates (or anything really!)

UNIQLO KIDS HEATTECH Cotton EXTRA WARM Leggings (Kids)
With HEATTECH technology, these leggings offer top-quality warmth and comfortability to keep kids smiling all day. The soft, stretchy fabric allows for easy movement, so no more complaints from the kids! They’re  definitely an item ideal for layering on those colder days. Pair them with the UNIQLO KIDS HEATTECH Cotton EXTRA WARM Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt to keep the cold out completely.

UNIQLO Socks 3 Pack (Ribbed)
UNIQLO’s Ribbed Socks 3 Pack offers comfort and style in one convenient package. Made from soft and durable materials, these socks feature a ribbed texture for added comfort and a secure fit. With a pack of three, you’ll have plenty of socks to keep your feet cosy throughout the week.


Matters of the mid-layer


Think fleece jackets, down vests, or insulated pullovers – they’re the perfect transition from singlet to coat. These layers provide that extra warmth without making you feel like a marshmallow, keeping you snug without weighing you down.

Here are our top picks for mid-layers:

KATHMANDU Women’s Trailhead 2L Insulated Rain Jacket
Purposefully engineered to keep you warm and dry through all your errands and activities. Featuring a 2-layer construction, this jacket provides reliable waterproof and breathable protection against rain and wind. It is insulated to offer extra warmth without bulk, making it ideal for those conditions we all annually dread. With its adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem, as well as multiple pockets for storage, this jacket offers both functionality and style for hiking, camping, or everyday use in the most unpredictable of weather.

UNIQLO Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
Made from soft and lightweight fleece fabric, this jacket provides exceptional warmth, as well as comfort. The full-zip design allows for easy layering and temperature regulation, while the stand-up collar provides added protection against chilly winds. With its simple and timeless design, this jacket is a perfect staple to keep around until it wears (and let’s be honest, with UNIQLO’s top-of-the-line quality, the jacket will die with you).

UNIQLO KIDS Warm Padded Washable Cardigan
Yes, back to the kids, because of course – keeping them warm in winter is the priority (I hope). Made with lightweight padding for insulation, it’s still easy for kids to move around comfortably. The washable design ensures easy care and maintenance, while the classic cardigan style adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Perfect for school, playdates, or family outings.


The outer layer touch


Now, let’s draw our attention to every amateur stylist’s worst nightmare – outer layers.

Imagine planning the perfect outfit, months in preparation, for the weather to drop below zero. All of a sudden, you have to throw on this chunky coat that covers the whole outfit. 

But sometimes, we have to make sacrifices. And with a bit of extra effort and creativity, winter styling has the potential to overrule summer (yep, we said it). 

Here are our top picks for outer layers:

UNIQLO Double Face Long Coat (Women)
Crafted with attention to detail, this coat features a double-faced construction that showcases two complementary colors for versatile styling options. Its long length provides ample coverage and warmth, while the sleek silhouette adds a touch of flattery to any outfit. Ultimately, it’s a timeless addition to your winter wardrobe, perfect for most occasions – a purchase you won’t regret!

UNIQLO Seamless Down Parka (3D Cut) (Men)
This UNIQLO parka is the only way to go this winter. Constructed with seamless stitching and a 3D cut for enhanced mobility and insulation, it offers a sleek and streamlined silhouette without compromising on performance. The water-repellent finish and adjustable hood offer added protection against the elements, making it the only choice, right?

UNIQLO KIDS PUFFTECH Warm Padded Washable Parka (Warm Padded) (Kids)
And now – a parka for the kids! This one’s made to withstand the daily life of a kid – keeping them dry and comfortable in chilly and wet conditions (as they probably splash through puddles *insert eye-roll*) The washable design – perfect for their beautiful (reckless) spirit, and adventurous (senseless) nature – ensures you don’t have to dispose of clothes after every wear.

Add some accessories


We’re talking hats, gloves, and scarves – they truly are the unsung heroes of winter warmth. They may seem like small details, but trust me, they make all the difference. We suggest opting for materials like wool or fleece when it comes to choosing those final elements. 

Here are our top accessory picks:

UNIQLO HEATTECH Knitted Gloves (UNISEX)
These HEATTECH gloves will protect your hands from the cold this winter. The conductive fingertips allow you to use touchscreen devices without having to remove the gloves. It’s a power move from UNIQLO, cause removing your gloves to go on your phone is something no one enjoys doing. The knitted construction provides flexibility and dexterity for easy movement, while. 

UNIQLO HEATTECH Scarf (UNISEX) & UNIQLO HEATTECH Ribbed Beanie (UNISEX)
If you are already sold on the gloves, it’d be criminal not to buy the matching scarf and beanie – so, I’ll just go ahead and leave the links to them here!

BEST & LESS Kids Chenille Beanie (Kids) & BEST & LESS Kids Knit Touch Screen Gloves (Kids)
Made from soft and plush fabric, these items offer gentle warmth and comfort for kids. The classic beanie style is accented with a playful pom-pom detail, adding a touch of fun to their winter wardrobe, while the touchscreen-compatible material of the gloves allows the kids to use smartphones and tablets functionally. So, say goodbye to arguments to keep their beanies and gloves on, because with these high-quality, cozy winter essentials from BEST & LESS, they won’t want to take them off.

Wrapping it up


Now that I’ve looped you in on all the skills of layering, you have no excuses for staying in this winter.  

With the right combination of base layers, mid layers, outer layers, and accessories, you’ll be able to withstand chilly Saturday sports mornings, school drop-offs, and taking your kids to the park in case of cabin fever. 

There’s nothing like parenting in winter, hey?

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