The Ultimate Winter Matchday Fit Formula

If it weren’t for football season, I’d have no reason to brave the winter chill. But matchdays get me outside, even on the coldest nights, and I’ll take any excuse to pull a look together. Here’s Girlactico’s guide to staying warm and stylish through the WSL winter.

Layer Like a Pro

When the temperature drops, I never leave the house without a pair of thermals. They’re thin but pack a punch when it comes to keeping you warm, using clever two-ply fabric that traps heat without the bulk.

Thermals are my not-so-secret winter hack. They let you build an outfit that looks intentional while keeping you toasty. I swear by my Uniqlo Heattech set and M&S’s Heatgen range is a great affordable option. If you want something luxe, Mountain Warehouse’s Merino wool thermals are worth the investment.

They make layering feel effortless. You can stay warm without looking like a snowman, ideal for night matches or post-game pub runs.

Marks & Spencer's Heatgen

Mountain Warehouse Merino Womens Top & Pants Set

Uniqlo Heattech

Rep Your Club the Cute Way

We all love a jersey but when your coat covers it up, it’s time to get creative. Enter the football scarf, the easiest way to rep your club and stay cosy.

Scarves don’t have to cost a fortune. You can thrift them on Vinted, Depop or eBay, or crochet your own if you’re feeling crafty. Charity shops near your team’s stadium are full of hidden gems.

If you’re buying new, there are plenty of great designs. I’m obsessed with retro styles and anything from the women’s side like the Arsenal x A-COLD-WALL* Derby Red Scarf or the Spurs Retro Navy and Yellow Crest Scarf.

Coats That Don’t Kill the Vibe

There’s nothing wrong with a classic black football manager-style puffer but if you want something sleeker, try the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket. It’s thin, folds into your bag and layers perfectly under a wool or leather coat.

Straight from the Scandi fashion girlies on TikTok, it’s the secret to looking put together when the temperature drops. Pair it under an oversized coat for that minimalist off-duty vibe, warm enough for pitch-side but polished enough for the pub after. You’ll feel smug knowing you’re freezing-proof without looking like you’re off to climb Everest.

The Easy Matchday Outfit Formula Everyone’s Copying

Start with your thermals; Heattech or Heatgen layers are the real MVPs when you’re standing pitch-side. Then build up with wide-leg trousers, cropped or structured, perfect for hiding secret leggings underneath.

Next comes smart layering, and there are plenty of ways to do it. As seen on @girlswatchgirlsplay (we couldn’t resist featuring our own fits), Sophie wears a discreet thermal with a blue collared shirt under her jersey, while I’ve gone for a cropped vintage Barbour coat, an Arsenal home shirt and a scarf. One of my favourite football fashion creators, Robyn Gunn, nails it with a hoodie and long wool coat, repping her club with a statement scarf.

Finish with accessories that pull everything together. A cap and matching scarf always look considered while a mid-size crossbody keeps things practical. For footwear, you can’t go wrong with Adidas Handball Spezials, Salomon XT-6s or KEEN Jaspers, all influencer-approved favourites that balance comfort and style. The trick is simple: build warmth from the inside out so you stay cosy and look effortlessly cool doing it.

Fashion Is Always About You

The thing with fashion is it’s completely personal. Always dress in a way that feels like you. Reuse, restyle and get inspired by TikTok or Pinterest but don’t feel pressured to buy new. Look at what you already own and think of fresh ways to wear it.

If there’s one winter hack to take from this guide, it’s simple: get some thermals. You’ll thank me later. And maybe I’ll see you pitch-side, looking cute, cosy and completely unbothered by the cold.