How to Dress Bright and Stylish in Kenya's Cold Weather

As the chill sets in across Kenya this August and September, dressing for the cold weather can feel like a bit of a fashion rut. Many of us reach for neutral tones and bulky layers, but cold weather doesn't mean your style has to go dark or dull.

This season, I’m embracing bold color, cozy textures, and functional fashion—and I want to show you how you can do the same! I recently shot some spring-inspired outfits in Carouge, Switzerland, and they couldn’t be more perfect for Nairobi’s gloomy, chilly days.

Add Color to Beat the Grey

One of the easiest ways to uplift your mood during cold, grey weather is with bright outerwear. In my look, I’m wearing a bubblegum pink coat—a cheerful contrast to the overcast skies. Pink isn’t just playful, it’s also empowering and feminine, and it pairs beautifully with other bold tones like mustard yellow or even cobalt blue.

To complement the coat, I layered it over a sunny yellow sweater. Yellow brings warmth to your outfit visually, even if it’s cold outside. Whether you're headed to brunch in Westlands or strolling through Karura Forest, color layering like this ensures you turn heads and stay warm.

Keep the Base Simple and Functional

When playing with color on top, it’s smart to keep the base simple. I styled the bright coat and sweater with classic black jeans—a staple in any cold-weather wardrobe. They’re flattering, easy to move in, and a great neutral foundation.

For footwear, black tall boots are both practical and sleek. Whether it’s drizzling in Limuru or breezy in Kileleshwa, they keep your feet warm and dry while adding a polished finish to your outfit.

Don't Forget the Accessories

To tie the look together and add a bit of winter glam, I wore a black faux fur hat. This accessory not only protects against the cold but also elevates the whole outfit with a chic touch. It’s an easy way to stay fashionable while keeping cozy—something we all need during Kenya’s cooler months.

Bright Looks for a Brighter Mood

Even though these pictures were taken in Carouge, Switzerland, this outfit is tailor-made for Kenya’s cold season. From Nairobi’s morning fog to Naivasha’s chilly evenings, these pieces work across the country.

Cold weather fashion in Kenya doesn’t have to be boring. Don’t shy away from color—embrace it. Pair your brights with neutrals, invest in bold outerwear, and play with textures like faux fur and knits.