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Winter Wardrobe Essentials Every Collegiette Should Have

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

For collegiettes at Illinois, cute outerwear is essential because we end up trudging through the snow for half of the school year. This winter, be sure to have all of these wardrobe essentials to get you through the brutal winter months.

Scarves

Scarves are an essential piece to your wardrobe because they can serve multiple purposes. Not only do they keep you warm, but they can also be used to update a basic outfit. Chunky, knitted scarves are perfect for creating a cozy look, while brightly colored and patterned scarves add trendy touches to your outfit.

Tech-Savvy Gloves

Your hands and fingers are often exposed to the elements, but keep them safe this winter from harsh conditions with a pair of texting gloves. These genius gloves have a special fabric that covers your pointer fingers and thumbs that allows you to use your phone while remaining warm. This way your fingers won’t freeze while you’re texting in frigid temperatures.

Knee High Boots

Keep your feet warm and dry in a pair of knee high boots. As far as colors go, choose one that will suit the majority of your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid of spending a little bit more than usual, since they’re an item you’ll be spending a lot of time wearing. Try a pair of knee-high boots over skinny jeans. It’s is a great way to look casual, yet sexy at the same time. They also make your legs look long and slender.

Thick Socks

A cross between hiking and camp socks, winter’s more textured chunky socks look great bunched up around the ankle with skinnier pants or with a pleated mini-skirt and an ankle boot. These are a definite must-have item for your winter wardrobe.

Cashmere Sweaters

No matter how many are already folded in your sweater drawer, the thrill of acquiring a new cashmere sweater never really gets old. It’s an item that excels in every category a winter piece needs to — comfortable, polished, warm, classic and versatile, making it an essential for the chilled winter months.

Beanies

Beanies and hats are a necessity for keeping your head toasty warm in winter. There are plenty of different styles of beanies available, from fitted to slouchy ones with simple to novelty designs. I find that a basic black or grey beanie that can be folded to sit firmly on the head or worn slouchy is a versatile wardrobe option.

Chelsea Boots

The Chelsea boot is special because it has an incredibly sturdy silhouette, combined with a utilitarian build making it a great item for the winter season. These flat, slip-on boots are ideal for traveling and getting around during the frigid winter season. This essential piece will soothe your fear of getting across that icy sidewalk.

 

Image sources:

http://fashionurge.com/scarf-stylish-look/

http://indulgy.com/post/cv9MDFN32/spell-out-your-techsavvy-style-with-wa…

http://www.gorgeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Celebrities-Knee-…

http://www.realnebraskagirls.com/Portals/0/gifs/pulling_up_socks_gif-796…

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02304/cashmere_2304630b.jpg

http://www.blog.allthatiwant.com/beanie-show/

http://infusionsoftva.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/chelsea-boots.jpg

A senior at the University of Illinois, Elizabeth spends half of her time in denial of her impending graduation and the other half acting as Editor-in-Chief/ President/Campus Correspondent for the site you're on now, Her Campus Illinois. Her favorite color is pink, which makes this position a match made in heaven. Still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up, her passions lie in writing, digital marketing, social media and fashion. Connect with her on Twitter and Instagram @champaigngirl. And if you prefer good, old fashioned email, reach her at elizabethdeuel@hercampus.com.