Being a college student in the winter means we are constantly walking outside to get to our classes or club meetings. We can’t get away with not layering up to stay warm in this weather of frequent snow, rain, wind, and cloudiness. It can be tough to keep up with fashion trends since we’re often tempted to just throw on a sweatshirt and sweatpants to combat the unpleasant weather. To avoid falling into this habit for the next few months, there is a simple four step process to get the perfect winter outfit that shields you from the cold and keeps you looking cute!
Step One: Basics
Basics are essential to anyone’s fashion sense, and they can be as simple as plain or graphic tees, sweaters, jeans, leggings, and joggers. These garments don’t have to stand out, they just need to act as functional pieces that work well with any outfit. Versatility is the key to finding good basics. They are typically neutral colors that can work with a variety of styles and outfits, and therefore never go out of style.
Step Two: Layering
Layering is important in the cold weather. Lately, layering tees and sweaters on top of a simple turtleneck or long sleeve has been trending. It looks fashionable and provides the extra warmth you’ll certainly need during the winter months. Outerwear is also an easy way to add warmth. Denim jackets or teddy coats are cute and simple ways to add color, texture, and variety to a basic outfit of a tee shirt and jeans.
Step Three: Statement Piece
Statement pieces have many different shapes and patterns. This consists of something that has a louder, bolder color or print, such as plaid, cheetah print, stripes, and more. A statement piece can be found as pants, a jacket, or shoes that can upgrade your basic winter outfit to a new level. Usually, these items are fairly unique because they add your own personal style to an otherwise basic outfit. This step will help you stand out from everyone else on campus. My personal favorite statement pieces are my cheetah print jacket and my denim jeans with white vertical stripes.
Step Four: Accessorize
Finally, accessorizing is an easy way to add the illusion of effort to an outfit. Adding a scarf, a headband, or some jewelry can make your outfit come together cohesively. This simple addition makes a huge difference, even if it is just a pair of gold hoop earrings or a pair of cute socks that adds more individuality. Some popular trends I have seen lately are layering dainty necklaces and tying a silk scarf around your hair, which can transform a simple outfit into something more eye-catching. And a beanie is a classic staple that is also highly functional in winter weather.
Once each of these steps are completed each day, the desire to lazily throw on sweats and a sweatshirt will become less frequent. The lack of warm weather does not mean we will be forced to dress down all the time. Staying warm can be fashionable too!