When you think of hoodies, you probably picture casual, stay-at-home outfits or something you throw on just to run errands. But what if I told you that a hoodie can be just as stylish as a trench coat or a tailored jacket—if styled right?
During Kenya’s chilly August–September weather, layering up is a must—but looking good while staying warm is the ultimate win. On a recent trip to Lyon, France, I styled a look that’s perfect for cold weather in Kenya, especially for those early Nairobi mornings or breezy evenings in Limuru.
Here’s how I made a simple green hoodie look polished and chic—and how you can do the same!
1. Choose a Bold-Colored Hoodie
First things first: ditch the dull. I wore a predominantly green hoodie—a rich, bold shade that feels earthy and grounding, yet still brings a pop of color to a grey day. Kenya’s cold season tends to feel muted, so wearing jewel-toned or vibrant hoodies can help inject energy into your wardrobe.
Whether it’s forest green, deep burgundy, navy blue, or even burnt orange, opt for hoodies in colors that make a statement. They work beautifully against the backdrop of Kenya’s cold but naturally beautiful landscapes.
2. Go Baggy, But Balance It Out
I paired my green hoodie with black baggy jeans, creating a relaxed but on-trend silhouette. Baggy jeans give you that effortlessly cool vibe, plus they leave room for thermal leggings underneath if you're braving extra-chilly mornings.
The trick with baggy bottoms is balance. Since hoodies already have volume, make sure the rest of your outfit doesn’t overwhelm your frame. A slightly cropped hoodie or tucking in just the front can help define your shape while still keeping that streetwear edge.
3. Keep It Fresh with Clean Sneakers
To keep the outfit crisp, I wore classic white sneakers. They add a touch of minimalism and brighten up the darker tones in the outfit. Clean sneakers are a must-have for transitional weather—not just in Lyon or Paris, but right here in Nairobi too.
White sneakers are the ultimate versatile shoe. They work with just about anything and help balance more rugged pieces like oversized jeans or heavy outerwear. Plus, they’re comfortable enough to wear all day—whether you’re walking downtown or heading to your campus or office.
4. Accessorize with Texture
To add a little flair and warmth, I topped off the look with a black faux fur hat—the same one from my pink coat look. Faux fur accessories are such a win for Kenya’s cold weather. They add texture, warmth, and a touch of luxe to even the most casual outfits.
Accessories like a fur hat, chunky scarves, or even a bold pair of sunnies can instantly elevate a hoodie outfit, transforming it from “I just rolled out of bed” to intentional street style.
5. Make It Yours
What I love about this look is how adaptable it is. I originally wore this when I went to pick up my residence permit in Lyon, but it’s so wearable for a chilly morning in Kenya too. Whether you're heading to the immigration offices in Nairobi, meeting friends for coffee in Lavington, or traveling upcountry—this kind of outfit works across different cold settings.
The key to styling a hoodie in colder weather is to treat it like a hero piece, not just an afterthought. Build your outfit around it, add thoughtful accessories, and play with proportions.
Cold Weather Style in Kenya: Final Thoughts
This August and September, don’t sleep on hoodies. They’re cozy, comfortable, and when styled right, incredibly fashionable. Instead of defaulting to shapeless layers or uninspired knits, try building your cold-weather outfit around a hoodie.
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Choose a bold or rich color
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Pair with baggy jeans or straight-leg trousers
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Keep your sneakers clean and simple
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Add textured accessories like faux fur or knitwear
Whether you're in Nairobi, Nakuru, Eldoret, or even the hills of Tigoni, this look will keep you warm, comfortable, and stylish. Trust me—a hoodie can be the star of your outfit, not just a layering afterthought.
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