When the wind blows in from Siberia it’s easy to throw style out the window and bundle yourself up like some latter-day babushka. But is it possible to look cool and keep warm when the temperature drops below freezing? Consider the following advice from our friends in the (very far) north.

“Only in Russia can you see women casually strolling on the ice-covered streets wearing a pair of stiletto heels,” says Moscow-based designer Ulyana Sergeenko. “Even on the coldest days women here strive to look beautiful and glamorous. I love that Russian women always want to look their best. I believe a woman should look beautiful and graceful, no matter what.”

Sergeenko’s hard-line approach to sub-zero style is something she applies to her own winter wardrobe. “It’s not only about fur. There’s a whole range of amazing and beautiful things you can only wear in winter – muffs, angora shawls, funny woollen mittens and gaiters, beautifully embroidered coats, heavy capes, bright puffer jackets and valenkí – really warm, comfortable boots made from dense felted wool. It’s a very traditional Russian thing. When it’s freezing cold for months and keeping yourself warm is your highest priority, you really have to be creative to avoid being stuck with the same combination of clothes every day.”