The first warm day

Short answer: The first day above twenty degrees feels warmer than a similar day in August. Your body has not adjusted, and your wardrobe is still set for winter, so wear one thin layer and keep your socks on.

Your body has not adjusted

After a winter, twenty degrees feels like twenty five. Your body has been used to cold for months and has not yet noticed that spring has arrived. That is why you warm up quickly on the first day, even though the temperature is only moderate. It is normal and fades as more warm days come.

The wardrobe is still set for winter

When the first warm day arrives, the thin clothes are often at the bottom of the wardrobe. It is easy to grab the same thick clothes as the day before and then feel too warm all day. Bring out a few thin pieces once the forecast starts showing higher temperatures.

A soft layer you can take off

A sweatshirt is a good choice on the first mild days, because it is easy to take off and tie around your waist when the sun comes out. Mornings and evenings are still cool, and that is when you will want it on. Choose a soft model that is not too thick. See bamboo sweatshirt for women.

Do not pack away winter clothes

The first warm day is almost always followed by a cold week. It is tempting to clear the wardrobe and put winter clothes in boxes, but it is too early. Leave the warm clothes hanging for a few more weeks, and move them only after several warm days in a row.

One thin layer is enough

In the middle of the day, one thin layer is often all you need. A top with short or long sleeves keeps you cool in the sun without leaving you cold if clouds roll in. Pair it with a sweatshirt for the morning and evening. See bamboo tops for women.

Your feet still need socks

The ground is cold, whatever the air says on the first warm day. After a long winter, the ground has not had time to warm up, and the cold comes up through the sole. Keep your socks on a while longer, even in sunshine. See bamboo socks in a thinner version for spring.

The shade is still cold

On the first warm day, it is mostly the sun that warms you. As soon as you step into the shade or into a house that has not warmed up, it feels cool again. Keep that in mind when planning the day, and bring a layer if you will be sitting still indoors.

Adjusting takes a little time

After a few weeks with more warm days, your body gets used to the new temperature. Twenty degrees then no longer feels so warm, and you can switch your wardrobe over at your own pace. Use the first warm days to see which thin clothes you are missing.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the first warm day feel so warm

Because your body is still set for winter. The same twenty degrees feel cool in August, once the body has adjusted to a whole summer of warmth.

Should you pack away winter clothes

No, not yet. The first warm day is almost always followed by a cold week, so leave the warm clothes hanging for a few more weeks.

What should you wear

One thin layer and still socks. The ground and the shade are cold whatever the thermometer says, so bring an extra layer for the evening too.