Perhaps you’ve heard the idea that if you put on a sweater you can turn down your thermostat a few degrees. Well, it’s true. And we’re here to tell you that if you put on four sweaters you can turn the thermostat down a good 15 degrees. Isn’t that neat? The best part is that with our unseasonably warm weather (40-60°F) we’re been able to leave the heater off all together!

Now, I’m sure you’re all asking how you, too, can get in on this fun. So let’s talk layering.

Step 1. On top of your necessary underwear add long socks and a long sleeve shirt. Thermal works great here. You want these layers to fit tightly against your skin, so you have room for plenty more. You might be able to sneak in a tshirt or camisole here too if you’ve got a nice tight one. Don’t, like, cut off your circulation or anything. Tight but stretchy is good.

Step 2. Pull on long underwear and some nice, thick, wooly socks. Fleece pants work instead of or in addition to long underwear. And let’s be clear here about long underwear. Waffle weave stuff is all right, but if you can afford nicer technical gear, it will be worth the investment. On your top, you want layering sweaters. Pick something thin and stretchy for the first layer, maybe with a turtleneck. Then add a thick, preferably wool, sweater on top. Casual sweaters tend to be a little looser than a dressy sweater, so one of each works well.

Step 3. Time for regular pants and your first outer sweater. Now, I’m a big fan of khakis because I find jeans a little constraining over the top of my thick fleece pants, but whatever works for you. As to that outer sweater, the world is your oyster. Fleece jackets, hooded sweatshirts, those trenchcoat-like sweaters that were popular in the 90′s, we’ve tried them all. You’ll probably be moving into you’re baggy and oversized clothes at this layer, but make sure you’re not maxing out yet. You may find that you simply don’t own this quantity of clothes that all match. No worries! You’ll notice that only the outer layers are visible. Top it off with a cute stocking cap and no one will be the wiser.

Step 4. Just a few finishing touches needed. Slippers are a must. Shoes are a fine substitute, if you have a pair that fits over all those socks. A scarf will really help you feel cozy. And a nice final outer jacket, preferably with a hood. Vests are fine if you’re feeling sporty, or if you’ve already reached the stage at which you can’t bend your arm enough to touch your shoulder. Although, really, how often do you need to touch your shoulder during the day? If you’ve still got the shivers a few jumping jacks can really help. Or hand grinding a few pounds of corn to feed the chickens!

And, if all else fails, there is always the sleeping bag trick.