I’m always reminded of the words of my great-grandmother when thinking about what to wear; her words still echo in my head as clear as though it was yesterday. “Nivir cast a cloot, till da munt o’ May is oot” were the words she – and many before her – said. And it’s true; we still experience cool weather in May. This is just a short – but hopefully useful – blog post. I’ve been inspired to write it by the weather, the month of June usually brings warmer weather, but not this month, we seem to have been plagued with cold and windy days, reminiscent of October. So, for those who are planning their Shetland wardrobe, here are a few pointers. Layers Shetlanders will often comment that we experience ‘four seasons in one day’, and anyone who has lived in (or visited) Shetland will appreciate this. So my advice is to layer up. You can always remove extra layers if necessary, but you can’t add them if you don’t have them. Our average summer temperature is 15°C and in winter this drops to 5°C (although it usually feels much cooler). And don’t let the indicated temperature on weather forecasts fool you, the wind chill is menacing. Even I’m caught out by this on occasion. It reminded me of one bright sunny day last year. I was standing on the pier waiting for my bus and passengers, and I was fooled by the bright, cheerful sky that had greeted me as I pulled open the blinds in the morning – It masked a bitter north wind that gets right to the bone. In my jaw-chattering coldness, I was forced to dash to the LHD shop (across the road) to buy a hat, scarf, and I sent for my husband to fetch my long-janes (thermals). A quick change in the back of the bus and layers added I was good to go. Wool There’s a reason Shetland knitwear has been so popular here for hundreds of years – it’s bloomin’ cosy! Shetland jumpers were worn to conquer Everest in 1953, they have been to the Arctic, the Antarctic and we traded them for gin and tobacco with the Dutch fishermen. Get into one of the local knitwear shops and buy something woolly – it will keep you warm. A rough guide of what to wear:
As for umbrellas – don’t bother, they just blow out. A visitor can always be spotted as they brandish (and battle the wind with) this foreign accessory! And for heaven’s sake, remember to bring your camera, we have just been voted in the top 10 destinations for Best in Europe by Lonely Planet after all! But most importantly; enjoy your Shetland adventure. With love,
10 Comments
Nancy Snell
18/6/2019 03:20:47 am
Coming next June from Florida! Love your packing suggestions and look forward to reading more of your blog. Amazing photos!!
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17/6/2020 08:07:49 am
Great guide! I really like this article so much and found very helpful. Thanks for the great ideas.
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Laurie
17/6/2020 12:38:43 pm
Glad you found it useful! Thanks for the feedback :)
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Jeannie Clark
13/7/2020 04:59:19 am
I love your blo . Thank for all the wonderful tips.
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laurie
14/7/2020 11:12:32 am
Thanks for taking the time to read through it and give me feedback :)
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Kristen Mclean
29/8/2020 03:45:38 pm
Loved your article. We will be coming next may.it was so useful.
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Emma
26/9/2020 08:33:43 am
Great as ever Laurie 👏
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Laurie Goodlad
29/9/2020 11:01:02 am
Thanks Emma!
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Linda Martin
30/4/2022 10:19:11 pm
I've been streaming Shetland and love The series. ❤️ I've been thinking that the weather you speak of and the proper way to dress for it is very similar to my Home here on the Olympic peninsula of Washington State. Our windchill factors Have taught us to prepare for all 4 seasons in one day. A major difference here is that we have trees, So the gales frequently bring trees down on our power lines.. Many residents have generators so we can keep our homes warm Year round. I love your blog and wish I could visit the Shetlands But at age 82 with many health problems, it's not likely so I'll have to continue loving Shetland With your blog And TV series. Thank you for sharing.
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Hello from LaurieHello, and welcome to my blog. I hope that you find what you're looking for - whether you're planning that perfect holiday or maybe you're from Shetland and looking for some 'home' inspiration. Hopefully, there is something here for everyone. Archives
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