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

If you are anything like me, the minute your alarm goes off in the morning, you peer out your window to get a read on the day’s weather. If it’s sunny, you roll over with a smile—granting yourself a few extra minutes to snooze. If it’s cloudy, you quickly throw off your comforter and scramble over to your closet. More likely than not, the very first question you ask yourself is, “What do I wear today?” Often times, fall weather can be baffling. The weather app shows it will be sunny, but with the inconsistency of Evanston’s weather this fall, you can never really be too sure about your outfit choice. 

Fall weather in Evanston is fickle, which makes for tricky fall fashion decisions. Here are five go-to looks for any fashionista concerned with being both trendy and climate-appropriate. 

 

When the weather app reads “70’s and sunny” (cue “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang)

A patterned skirt with a knit, cropped sweater is an easy go-to. It is perfect for beautiful day because one can feel comfortable leaving home without an additional jacket. Pair the combo with some brown leather boots (leg coverage in case of a breeze) and you’re good to go. You can even hike up the skirt if you are trying to tan while studying by the Lakefill. 

When the weather app reads “Mid-60s” 

A long and loose top paired with a hip pair of ripped boyfriend jeans is a classic comfortable look for class. Add a pair of high top converse for a pop of color. Even pack a fun scarf in case temperatures drop to low-mid 60’s (we’ve all been surprised before). Easy. 

 

When the weather app reads “Mid-50s” and you want to be lazy-cute (yes, it’s a thing). 

You literally woke up like this. Throw on a pair of jogger sweats,a key element in every college student’s wardrobe, and a graphic t-shirt. Grab an oversized thick flannel for warmth. Complete the “I-didn’t-try-I-swear” look with pair of sneakers. Can anyone say messy bun? 

When the weather app reads windy and high 40’s 

 

With cold and dreary fall days, it is important to have a little bit of color in you rlife. Try a pair of colored pants paired with a more neutral, wool top. A knit hat adds another pop of color and some extra warmth. Throw in a black vest if the wool top isn’t cutting it. Duck boots are not only “in” but can come in handy if you encounter puddles on the way to class. 

When the weather app is all over the place 

Layering is key in Evanston. Start with a collared shirt and throw your favorite sweater on top. Pair your preppy, layered look with a pair of skinny blue jeans and short black boots. To finish the put-together look, grab a brown leather jacket. That’s three layers, all of which can be peeled off and on throughout the day. Polished and practical. 

 

Michelle is freshman in the Medill School of Journalism, Media, and IMC at Northwestern University. Michelle is originally from Menlo Park, CA--about forty minutes away from San Francisco and forty seconds away from Facebook HQ. When she is not writing for HerCampus, she can be found dancing. In fact, she's always dancing.