This Hidden Layering Hack Is The Secret To Staying Warm This Winter

Up until recently, I’ve been sat writing from my home office in a faux fur throw I had fashioned into a sarong, paired with shearling lined slippers. I have a strict no-heating-before-November rule – even more so in the current climate with heating bills on the rise – so have had to get creative with ways to keep out the cold. However, my latest self-heating hack is a little more chic, infinitely more technical, and less clumpy than wadding myself in fabric – and I’ve got Uniqlo to thank for it.

Uniqlo is a staple in my wardrobe, thanks to its perfectly cut t-shirts, fleecy knits and brilliant quality shirts. But did you know that it also has a Heattech range too? Once upon a time, you might have described these as thermal layers – but we’ve come a long way since the vests your mum might have put you in as a child. Heattech is Uniqlo’s signature tech fabric that can comfortably regulate your body temperature without the need for bulky layers (or blankets). How does it do it? By using fibres that absorb moisture and heat released by the body, and keeping it locked in. It all sounds weird and potentially very sweaty, but trust me when I say it’s anything but – just try it for yourself and you’ll instantly feel the difference on a cold day.

The good news is that the range is massive too. So whether you’re looking for a discrete vest to wear under your favourite midi dress or want to buy a lightweight knit that could keep you warmer than your chunkiest winter coat, there’s something for everyone – and every cold weather occasion. With everyone paying particular attention to their thermostat this year, I think it won’t be long until this secret fabric hits the mainstream – and when it is, you’ll have no chance of getting your hands on it. So stock up while you can with our edit of the best Heattech pieces from Uniqlo below.