Chunky Scarves Are Back: Six Trends to Expect this Winter

It felt like it would never happen, but winter is just around the corner! After months of warm weather, the temperature in San Luis Obispo has finally dipped below 70 degrees. It is time to put your summer dresses and florals in the back of the closet and practice layering. Although since December 1988, there has been no snow covering the streets of San Luis Obispo, there is still a noticeable chill in the air. As such, I will focus on trends for the moderate winter girls. Please keep in mind that everyone should dress how they please, but these are a few styles that I predict will be in this winter.

1. Chunky Scarves 

Scarves are a winter staple. We have made it a long way from Christian girl autumn infinity scarves to skinny scarves to this year: chunky scarves are in! Red, brown, quilt-patterned: chunky scarves of all colors are being worn by people this winter. These can be styled with a mini-skirt, tights, and a bomber jacket, with a sweater and jeans, or whatever else you can think of. This is perfect for SLO weather on days when you want a little extra warmth with your jacket or sweater. The best part about these scarves is that they don’t even need to match your outfit. No matter how you wear them, a chunky scarf can elevate any outfit by adding a layer and (in some cases) a pop of color. 

2. Oversized Jackets 

The hardest part of winter is keeping myself warm while still wearing a cute outfit. That is where oversized jackets come in. Don’t get me wrong, oversized jackets can be worn all year round, but they are the perfect companion to any winter outfit. Leather jackets, bomber jackets, denim jackets–they are all in this winter! And, keeping with the oversized style of the past few years, you can’t go wrong with going one or two sizes up. These can be styled with basically any outfit, but this winter, I predict to see them paired with sweaters and scarves. If you don’t have any oversized jackets, do not fear: you can find them at any thrift store downtown! Good luck hunting!

3. Fur

Going hand in hand with the oversized jacket trend is fur! Faux or not, a resurgence of fur coats is inevitable. Whether it is inspired by Carrie Bradshaw’s raccoon fur coat or the “Penny Lane” fur-lined coat, the girls are wearing fur this winter. That doesn’t mean you have to run to Target for the viral fur coat, because there are a plethora of options at any thrift right here in SLO. The leopard print trend that was rampant this summer is not dead yet and has evolved to leopard print fur coats for the winter. This might be less versatile than leather or bomber jackets, but a fur coat can be used as the statement piece of your outfit. Pair them with neutral pants and a top, and any boring outfit can be transformed into a high fashion one!

4. Cardigans

Cardigans are timeless, cute, and chic! Unlike the jackets, it seems that fitted cardigans are making a comeback. Button the top, leave the rest undone, and you have created the cool girl look. These can be worn to study at a coffee shop, shop downtown, or go to dinner with your significant other’s parents. You will look put together while keeping your arms cozy. These have been styled with jeans and a white top for an instant moderately cold-weather outfit! The best part is cardigans are versatile, so you can pair them with kitten heels, boots, or sneakers for three completely different vibes.

5. Denim on Denim

Canadian tuxedos are no new concept, but this winter I have seen them more than ever! No one can look bad in a denim jacket and jeans, and it will keep you warm and stylish from head to toe. On especially cold days, a sweater can be paired underneath for extra toastiness. Dark denim seems to be the trend for winter outfits as it pairs perfectly with the dreary weather. And–don’t be afraid of black denim if you want to match the daylight savings’ darkness. 

6. Colorful Tights

For the girls that refuse to give up their skirts and dresses, do not fret! Tights are here to protect your legs from the cold and elevate every single outfit. For this upcoming winter, colorful tights seem to be replacing the classic black sheer look. Speaking of dreary weather and daylight savings, these tights may just be the cure to seasonal depression. Whether you want to match your outfit or make them the focal point, colorful tights never seem to fail. If you walk into any room wearing them, nine out of ten times, a cool girl is going to compliment you and might even ask for a date. Style them with skirts and a sweater or a long sleeve for maximum aura. 

Amidst the constant changing of fashion in our time, comfort is never out. Whether that is showing up to school in sweats or a corset and long skirt, everyone should dress exactly how they feel most secure (physically and emotionally) to take on any challenges they may face. Trends are a fun way to try new styles and pieces, but don’t stress if you don’t align with these six ideas. The biggest trend to hop on this winter is dressing to let your most authentic self shine through!