Everyone knows that New Jersey doesn’t know how to pick a season for the weather, and it seems like this year we ran headfirst into winter after skipping over fall. If you’re looking for a new winter wardrobe to match your style as a college student, here are some pieces to keep you comfortable, cozy, and cute!
- peacoat
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Similar to a blazer, a peacoat will elevate any outfit while still keeping you warm. They come in a multitude of styles and colors – and if you need to look professional, these are exactly what you need! Peacoats can also masquerade by the name “longline wool coat” at some retailers, so keep an eye out for those.
If you need styling inspiration for your peacoat, I suggest a pair of jeans, a nice sweater, loafers, and a thick scarf (very Christian Girl Autumn, but it works!)
- puffer vest
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While I used to think vests were a useless article of clothing, I’ve finally understood the error of my ways. Vests add some ‘oomph’ to your everyday look, and extra freedom of movement. If your arms are pretty warm, but your sweater doesn’t have pockets – your vest will! On top of that, they’re perfect for the oscillating temperatures of Rutgers classrooms, where you never know what you’ll have to adapt to.
Some style inspiration for your vest: Your coziest hoodie, a thick pair of sweatpants, and sneakers or UGGs.
- button-down top
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While not necessarily a “winter” piece, a good button down top can be used for your semi-formal needs as well as a layering piece. They are probably the most versatile item on this list, with more ways to style them than you can count. If your button-down is good quality, it can easily last you multiple years, and I encourage buying a solid investment piece for this.
Winter style inspiration for your button down: Under a Rutgers-branded pullover sweatshirt, with a nice pair of slacks, and boots for the ultimate cozy-professional look.
- Cable-knit sweater
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Possibly the most winter item on this list, a cable-knit sweater is the ultimate essential. They’re cozy, comfortable, and a great layering piece to keep warm. In addition, the specific cable-knitting makes the texture stand out and maintain the uniqueness of your outfit. With more and more retailers turning to polyester these days, I suggest searching for natural fibers like cotton or wool in order to have a piece that lasts you as long as possible. Another important knitwear tip – dry them flat, and fold them instead of putting them away on a hanger!
Styling inspo: Wear your cable knit sweater with a cute skirt, tights to stay warm, and tall boots.
- Convertible mittens
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This might sound like a weird one, but trust me when I say that these are the best. There’s nothing worse than the pain of not being able to use your phone because you need gloves to keep your hands warm, and convertible mittens solve that problem. With default fingerless gloves and a pull-over mitten that you can button in place, convertible mittens are the perfect functional and fashionable option for keeping your hands warm.
Whether you choose to knit these yourself, like the featured post, or find them at Target, your mittens will go great with whatever outfit you’re wearing – no need for styling tips from me!
While I get that most of this list is layering pieces – that’s exactly what winter essentials are. It’s so important to stay warm up here in the NJ/NY area and layering is the best way to stay warm while looking wonderful. With these staples, you’ll be the coziest and cutest person on campus even when we hit freezing temperatures!