In the past I thought that the more layers I wore and the bulkier the fleece, the warmer I would be. It did not turn out that way. I did wear a thick fleece and it did feel cozy when I first put it on, but then quickly I would overheat and getting even colder with the damp layer.
Living on the west coast where it is rainy, chilly and dark, it is essential to have a stylish looking fleece that will keep me warm, breath when I am active outdoors and also take me around town.
Recently I spoke with Renata Mannino, the Product Line Manager for Arc'teryx. Renata shared with me the current trends for fall fleece and how fleece materials have improved.
What colours are on trend for fall fleece jackets?
Try not to follow trends. We have an in house colour team that works to set the trends. Even on fleece, our designs are complex and we work to create classic and sophisticated colours with refined monochromatic or tonal details, calling out design function with colour pops.
What are the best materials for a fleece jacket?
Fleece comes in a wide variety of insulation levels and air permeability/wind resistance. One of the key foundations is to find and use the best fabric for the products intended design use.
For instance, an ideal option for around town is a soft shell jacket with a fleece liner and is ideal for urban and everyday life.
More classic fleece styles have been redesigned (men's and women's) and are ideal for cool weather outdoor activities, light hiking and around town.
Durable materials that are comfortable next to skin and stand up to everyday use and outdoor activities are ideal for fleece. For example, casual fleece styling, heavier weight for cold mountain/ski days. Try a more technical fabric with a reinforced outer face and soft inside. A DWR finish to the surface of the fabric (water repellent treatment) and is meant for more technical adventures, while still having great crossover appeal to everyday life.
For the winter time runners and XC skiers, having a warmer layer that is highly air permeable is the key and the new Thetis and Thaleia fit that criteria. They are technical smooth faced fleece with a grid backer for loft and warmth.
What are the latest innovations in fleece?
Fleece knitting and construction techniques have been getting increasingly sophisticated. Recent seasons have seen significant gains in warmth to weight ratios, stretch and durability. Fleece continues to have excellent air permeability and next to skin comfort which allow it to be comfortable across a broad range of environmental conditions.
How to care for your fleece jacket?
Machine wash in lukewarm water and tumble dry at a low temperature. Do not bleach; avoid use of fabric softeners, do not iron or dry clean. For best results, launder garment with like-colours.
For the optimal performance, throw your fleece garment in the washing machine when you wash your GORE-TEX® jacket using Grangers® Performance Wash, Fibertec Pro Wash or ReviveX® Synthetic Fabric Cleaner. It removes all of the dirt, prevents odor from building up in the fabric and leaves no residue.
I know this winter is going to be fantastic and I am excited about using these tips to keep warm and look great! Stay tuned to my blog and share your comments below. Your tips and suggestions are always welcome, as I continue on my journey to find pretty, stylish and comfortable fashion.
MORE ON HUFFPOST:
