Below is a list of items that we believe are vital to surviving the harsh winters away at school. In the coming weeks, each item will get its own article devoted to specific information about it (i.e., where to buy, cost, effectiveness, etc.); so check back every week to find out where you can get the gear to stay warm and dry every year!
Heavy coat Something to keep in mind is that it’s best to buy the coat in the area where your school is – especially if that area is New England. Also, I see winter coats as investments: the more money you pay (to a reasonable degree, anyway), the more wear and warmth you’re going to get out of it. Wouldn’t you rather pay more at one time and have that item for at least the four winters you have to bear at school, than pay for a new coat every year? By the time you graduate, you might as well have paid for the more expensive coat.
Fleece-Lined tights/leggings Fleece-lined bottoms are a lifesaver! They’re perfect for layering under any pair of pants – I’d recommend wearing the tights under pants though, because they’re thinner than leggings, so it’s easier to slip a pair of pants of over them (as opposed to the leggings, which, if personally preferable, you can wear as bottoms without having to put anything over them).
Wool socks Wool socks are amazing. You can buy them made with thick wool or thin wool – depending on what shoes you’re planning to wear – and they’ll keep your feet warm and cozy all day long.
All-weather boots All-weather boots are essential for wintery-mix climates. It’s very important to find a pair that has traction because you want to do everything you can to prevent injury from the consequences of the cold weather (i.e., black ice).
Hat, gloves, scarf It’s really important to keep your head, hands, and neck protected during the winter. As a person who wear glasses 90% of the time (as opposed to contacts), I have a bit of trouble finding a hat that will stay on my head while I’m wearing my glasses (so I’m currently on the hunt for that, and when the details article of this item is published, hopefully I’ll have found something for all my glasses-wearing friends to wear). If it’s snowing, you’ll probably want waterproof/water resistant gloves. Scarves are a great way to keep your neck warm and you can also find some really cute ones that go with everything (I think the coloring is key for that, though); they’re also a great way to show off your personal style – the other items on this list serve as practical items, so they might not be the cutest clothing pieces you’ve ever worn, but they serve to keep you warm.
Remember to check back in the coming weeks for details on each of the items above! Happy winter, collegiettes! Stay warm!