soft and subtle ways to glow up this winter
The days are getting cold now and it’s suuuuper easy to slip into hermit mode. Trust me, I have had many hermit girl winters and there is no shame in getting cosy in your baggy hoodie and hair in a bun. But, if you want to step into the new year feeling like you’re already on your way to reaching those juicy goals then let’s use this winter to glow up (the slow n’ soft version).
It’s not about huge, dramatic changes — it’s all about those small shifts that make you feel confident and cosy all at the same time. These subtle glow up hacks are absolutely perfect for winter as they require little effort, just a lil’ consistency is all that is needed. Note: these aren’t all physical glow up tips either, we’re looking at the glowing up on the inside too.
And lemme just reiterate, if you have a duvet day while watching Gilmore Girls and day three hair – enjoy it. There is absolutely zero space for toxic glow up culture here but if you’re looking to get a head start before you step into that dreamy 2026 version of you then stick with me.
hydrate both inside and outside.
Usually when we think hydration we think the hot, summer months but it is juuust as vital for these cold months. During winter the air is so dry and that cold wind on your face is just sucking up any moisture that was there. One thing that is going to save you from dry skin is a nice thick moisturiser (something with ceramides preferably). Lather this on before you leave the house in the morning and your skin will thank you later!
Another thing we need to keep hydrated is the lips. I literally have nightmares about chapped lips. Get yourself a few lip balms and put them everywhere. Your fave coat pocket, your car, your work bag, everywhere. Make a mini ritual to apply these throughout the day and keep the chap away. Here are some of my fave vanilla scented ones.
romanticise your mornings.
Dark, cold mornings can be a bit of a vibe killer but this winter we are putting a spin on it. Make your morning routine something you can look forward to by making it cosier. Light a candle, play some soft piano music as you get ready, get yourself some fluffy slippers you can slip into when you wake up. One of the easiest ways you can start enjoying these mornings is by making them something you can’t wait to wake up to. Get yourself cosy into bed and remind yourself of how cosy and chill your morning will be.
put together some cute winter outfits.
I could be sat on a beach in 30 degree heat planning my winter outfits. Personally, it’s my favourite season to style for. We’re talking a chunky knit cardis, cosy scarfs, dreamy layers. Have a gander at what you already have from last winter and add some staples so you can put together a winter outfit that would make Rory Gilmore herself jealous.
make time for cosy hobbies.
Winter is the perfect time to try that hobby you’ve been putting off for the last few months. I’ve been dabbling in colouring and it is the perfect way to unwind after a day at work. I love to light a few candles, make myself a hot chocolate and enjoy some Twilight in the background while I colour away. If that’s not your cuppa tea you could try baking something new, reading those books on your tbr (I see you) or journaling ready for the new year.
And these are just a few ideas for how you can start your winter arc in a slow and soulful way. I hope these help angel and I will see you in the next one.
Love ya, Cait xo
