For an evening walk past light art, warm layers, comfortable shoes and a coat for the weather forecast are important. Combine, for example, a warm knit with trousers or jeans and add gloves, scarf and hat in the cold. If you are going for a drink afterwards, choose a layer you also like to wear indoors. Below you can read how to approach it.
Why a light walk calls for its own outfit
In the dark months, several cities organise light festivals and light routes, with artworks along canals, in parks and on squares. A walk past those installations is an atmospheric outing in the first weeks of the year. You usually walk one to three hours, in the dark, often along the water where the wind has free rein. You regularly stand still to look or take a photo, and that is exactly when you get cold. Because you stand still a lot, it can feel colder than during a short walk.
Layer by layer
Base layer: a thin layer that wicks away moisture. Walking and standing still alternate. Choose a base layer that stays pleasant during alternating walking and standing.
Middle layer: a warm knit. For women, a knitted polo with V-neck such as the Josephine in cream is a lovely, light base that you can combine with a warmer layer on top. If you want more warmth and structure, choose a cable-knit polo such as the Liorah in navy. For men, a fine-knit polo with quarter zip such as the Edmund in olive green melange, made of lyocell, is ideal: zip closed against the wind, open as soon as you are indoors.
Outer layer: a coat that falls past the hips and is windproof. Along the water the perceived temperature can be lower because of the wind. A hood or a collar you can turn up is a plus.
The trousers: warmer than you think
Your legs get the most wind. Trousers with a brushed inside, such as the Frederick in coffee brown, feel soft and warm on the inside and look like classic pleated trousers on the outside. For women, ultra high-waist pleated trousers, such as the Philippa in brown, work with thermal leggings underneath. The high waist gives room for an extra layer underneath if it fits comfortably.
Shoes for hours of walking
Choose shoes with a sturdy, grippy sole. Wet paving and bridges can be slippery. Leather ankle boots or lined sneakers are a good choice. Wear socks that suit the temperature and choose shoes you have already walked longer distances in comfortably.
Accessories that make the difference
- Gloves thin enough to operate your phone, or gloves you can easily take off for a photo.
- A warm scarf that protects your throat and neck from the wind.
- A hat, especially if you are outside for a long time.
- A small crossbody bag, so your hands are free and your belongings are kept safely close to your body in the crowds.
- A thermos with tea or hot chocolate, if the route is long.
Outfits for a light walk
| Women | Men | |
|---|---|---|
| Layer under the coat | Cream V-neck polo, possibly a cable-knit polo over it | Olive green polo with quarter zip |
| Trousers | Brown ultra high-waist trousers with thermal leggings | Coffee brown trousers with brushed inside |
| Coat | Long, windproof wool coat | Quilted coat or wool overcoat |
| Shoes | Lined leather ankle boots | Leather boots or lined sneakers |
Colour in the dark
At a light festival it is dark, and the artworks are the stars. Still, your clothes are visible in photos, often lit by coloured light. Lighter colours are often more visible in photos in the dark than fully black. If you want to be more visible in traffic, choose reflective elements or lighting meant for that.
From the route to a table
Many light walks end in a café or restaurant. Take off your coat and you sit at the table in a polished knit and smart trousers, without having to change. That is exactly why you choose your middle layer for its look, not only for warmth. Choose a middle layer you also like to wear indoors.
What do you take in your bag?
A small bag with the right things makes the evening more comfortable. Think of a power bank, because taking photos in the cold drains your battery quickly. Also think of tissues and possibly an extra pair of thin gloves. Check beforehand how you can pay along the way.
With children or a group
If you go with children, you walk more slowly and stand still more often. Because you often walk more slowly and stand still more with children, an extra layer can be handy. With a group, agree on a recognisable meeting point, in case you lose each other in the crowds.
Inspiration for the wintry city
For warm knitwear that also looks polished indoors, take a look at our knitwear for women and knitwear for men. You will find complete city looks in the Boulevard and City Life collections.
Shop the look
Josephine: knitted polo with V-neck, cream
Liorah: cable-knit polo, navy
Edmund: polo with quarter zip in lyocell, olive green melange
Frederick: trousers with brushed inside, coffee brown
Philippa: ultra high-waist pleated trousers, brown
Frequently asked questions
How warm should you dress for a light festival?
That depends on temperature, wind and the length of the route. Work with layers and take gloves, scarf and hat for the cold.
Which shoes are best for an evening walk in the city?
Shoes with a sturdy, grippy sole that you have already walked in for a long time, such as lined leather ankle boots or sneakers. Cobblestones and bridges can be slippery.
Which colours come out well in photos in the dark?
Light and warm colours such as cream, camel and brown can react differently to coloured light in photos than black. Above all, choose what suits your outfit.
