The Desk Sweater, How to Keep Warm at Work

Are you cold?  Office thermostats are notoriously controlled by men, so most workplaces are freezing.  And being productive when your frozen stiff is basically impossible.

So how do you stay warm when you can’t have a space heater, need to look professional, and don’t want to spend the whole winter whining about the cold?  Here are some tips for keeping warm at work.

One. Buy a Desk Sweater.  A desk sweater is an oversized, chunky cardigan that can be layered over any work outfit.  You want it to be big enough that you can basically wrap yourself in it.

A good desk sweater should come in a neutral color.  Grey and beige work best, but black is also a good option.  The material should be cozy and warm but make sure it’s not going to shed on your work clothes. These six sweaters would all make excellent desk sweaters.

These six sweaters would all make excellent desk sweaters.  You’ll notice they’re all under-$75.  A desk sweater will get spilled on, it will be infrequently cleaned, it shouldn’t be a piece you spend much money on.

Upper Left Chunky Cardigan Vest ($65) //  Fisace Knitted Cardigan ($32) // Old Navy Open Cardi ($38)

Bottom Left Shaker Knit Cardigan ($42) // F21 High-Low Cardi ($58) // ASOS Curve Chunky Cardi ($51)

Two. Use a Heating Pad or Foot Warmer.  Most offices won’t allow space heaters, they’re a power suck and a fire hazard.  But never fear, sitting on a heating pad or using a foot warming pad will have much the same effect.

This oversize heating pad can spread on both the seat and back of an office chair.  This plastic foot warming pad is a nice option.  If you’re lucky enough to have a desk no one else can see underneath, this Dr. Scholl’s slipper-warmer is sublime if you suffer from chilly toes.

Three. Grab a Coffee Cup Warmer.  A hot beverage is a great way to keep warm.  This Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer is a $7 miracle.  It also makes a great white elephant gift.

Four. Move Around as Much as Possible.  Moving around to get the blood flowing is a good way to stay warm.  When I worked at the Capitol, I would do two flights of stairs or walk the halls for a few minutes every hour or so.  If you get really cold, just get up and move.

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