Winter Exercise to keep your fit

Winter can put a chill for the most enthusiastic exerciser's plans. It's hard to get motivated to go jogging when you have to sidestep icy patches. And who wants to go to the gym when you have to scrape the ice off the windshield first?

But sticking to your exercise program throughout winter is beneficial for multiple reasons, experts say. Not only can physical activity lift your spirits during days of limited sunlight, also it can help make sure you're in good shape.

To exercise safely in more challenging conditions, you may need to make some adjustments to your routine, said Tony Breitbach, director of athletic training education at Saint Louis University.

When exercising outdoors, it's important to dress properly. Ideally, the layer closest to your skin should be made of a breathable material and not sweat-absorbing cotton. Then add a layer of fleece or cotton for warmth, finally, a windbreaker or waterproof outer layer.

Make sure you've adequately insulated your extremities. The face, fingers and toes are most likely to get frostbitten. Pain or tingling in your ears, fingers or toes is a sign that it's time to come in from the cold, Breitbach said. And also don't forget a hat.

Though you may feel less thirsty in cold weather, and continue to drink water while exercising. Avoid caffeine and alcohol-based beverages, which can contribute to dehydration. If you run in the dark, wear reflective clothing so that drivers could see you.

Warming up is extra important when it's cold outside. Before leaving home, do some stretching and other exercises to limber up. Once outside, start with some brisk walking before beginning to jog.

Ice skating and cross-country skiing burn lots of calories. And there's nothing like a snowball fight with your kids to get your heart pumping.

How to wear Winter’s tricky trends？

Cold-weather clothing, including fur, leather and thick knits, can make us look bulky and unfashionable. But with so many items on the market, there are also tons of affordable and animal-friendly options that won’t leave you looking like a teenage rock star or serious frump. Stacy London untangles tricky trends and explains how to make them work this season:

Faux fur

You can’t turn a corner this season without seeing an oversized, floor-length, hippie-inspired faux fur vest. Fake fur can quickly look cheap and tacky, but when worn correctly, it’s a great way to freshen up an evening or work outfit. When going for this trend, look for pieces that look and feel real; just because it's fake doesn't mean it should look it! Also, try classic silhouettes from the ’30s and ’40s, like a sophisticated wrap or shrug as opposed to a floor-length vest or long-sleeved jacket. You can pair this with a blouse in satin or silk that fits close to the body and a pencil skirt in a neutral color (black, navy or subtle metallic). Dress it up for evening with jeweled accessories, higher heels and opaque stockings and voila! This look is stylish, contemporary and puts a classic twist on a tricky trend.

Knit

Knitwear is all over the place right now. It’s a great way to look stylish and casual, although many chunky knits can look shapeless and add bulk to your body. It is essential when choosing a thicker, looser-shaped knit to pair it with more fitted pieces. Adding a belt is the ideal way to give more structure to an outfit and create a waistline. When choosing a belt, look for one that sits just above or at your natural waistline — it creates a longer leg line and keeps the body looking longer, leaner and taller. For the most part, knits should be proportional to body height and size. If you’re taller (5'6" and up), go for a longer silhouette. If you are shorter (5'5" and under), go shorter; mid-thigh is a good length for taller women, whereas if you’re petite, sweaters that hit just above your crotch or top of the hip are most flattering. Find pieces that have texture to the knit, like a cable sweater. This adds detail without the bulk. Lastly, layering a fitted piece underneath, like a long-sleeved cotton T-shirt, helps define body shape. Knitwear can be worn appropriately to the office as well; pair a cardigan with a silk blouse, a wide-leg tweed trouser and a high-heel pump for a more professional ensemble.

Faux leather

We used to know it as “pleather,” but now fake leather is looking just as sleek, modern and expensive as the real deal. There are so many styles to this trend, but I love it for an updated work outfit. Look for fake leathers in classic silhouettes and neutral colors that are easy to build from, like a black pencil skirt or cognac tailored blazer that nips in at the waist. Pair it with a woven blouse that has a muted pattern (to add visual interest) or even add a tweed blazer to the pencil skirt for an uber-chic style. Also, when choosing fake leather pieces, remember matte looks more expensive than shiny, and trust me, no one wants to look cheap when attempting this tricky trend in the workplace!

How to Wear a Long Scarf

Long scarves are incredibly versatile and are worn in a multitude of dramatic configurations. Tie, wrap, drape, and wind long scarves, with or without fringes, around your neck or waist. Wear long scarves in your hair as an extra trimming. Create jewelry-like chokers, lariats, and bracelets entirely made with scarves.

Whether you like bold, subtle, classically feminine, hip urban funk, or you are fond of long scarves because of their brilliant array of colors and wonderful textures like silk, cashmere, satin, and wool complement every outfit. A gorgeous long scarf gives you unlimited fashion mileage by adding flair to your look while also accentuating the positive and camouflaging the negative. Choose scarf colors that catch your eyes and skin tone or emphasize your tiny waist.

Long scarves draped about the neck look soft and engaging while hiding marks or wrinkles. Take turns to change short or long hairstyle with gleaming silk scarves. Balance an extra long neck with an artfully placed long scarf.

Spruce up that well-worn business suit and go from boring to fabulously wearing a long scarf in rich vibrant tones around your neck, shawl-like, or as a belt. Daily jeans and denim jackets present a distinctly elegant edge when accessorized with long fringed scarves. In fact, every outfit comes vivid with a long scarf on.

Two Popular and Easy Ways to Wear a Long Scarf

Long scarves are for all seasons, and these two easy and popular looks for wearing a scarf around the neck can effectively keep you warm in winter or to accent a favorite summer ensemble. Whether your scarves are woolly or the finest handcrafted silk, try these styles for instant glamour.

Style A

1. Hold each end of the long scarf in your right and left hand

2. Stretch the scarf out full length in front of you

3. Place the mid point of the scarf on the front of your neck

4. Bring the two ends of the scarf behind your neck and cross over at the nape of your neck

5. Drape the two long ends of the scarf in front

Now, your neck is perfect with the scarf on, and you have the two long ends draped in front. Finally adjust for comfort and choose how far apart you wish to have the two long ends – they can meet mid-way or be separated further apart for a different look.

Style B

1. Holding the ends of the scarf in your right and left hand, stretch out and fold the scarf in half

2. Place the halved scarf at the nape of your neck and wrap around to the front

3. Take the two scarf ends on the one side and place them both through the opening at other end

4. Pull the long ends through

Finish by simply adjust the scarf to be slightly loose or taut at the neck for a double layer look that is the epitome of high style!