As soon as the cold weather sets in, it can be all-too-easy for style to go out the window. When the freezing temperatures and slushy snow beg you to stay inside and snuggle up in sweats, resist the fashion faux pas temptation! You can still look effortlessly chic while keeping warm and toasty, and it only takes a few basic wardrobe pieces to pull it off. The best part? You can mix and match these staples to create stylish and fresh outfits that’ll last you through the winter months!
Cool Cardi
Cold weather is the prime time to have fun with layering, and incorporating a neutral cardigan into the mix is simple and stylish. Choose one that hits right below the hips, because this is the most flattering cut. You’ll also get more wear out of a neutral color; navy is a great option, because the hue looks great on all skin tones. The key to rocking a cardigan is to be creative; pair yours with a simple white t-shirt for a casual, laidback look, or slip it over a sleek button-down for a classically preppy style!
Mossimo Ultrasoft Cocoon Cardigan Sweater in Heather Navy: Target, $21
Cute Boot
A classic pair of riding boots is always a safe choice for winter essentials, but it’s time to switch things up this winter. These rustic yet stylish Zorrba boots are all the rage this season because they’re versatile, comfortable, and fun! Any lace-up or combat-inspired pair will look effortlessly trendy when paired with your jeggings or skinny jeans, so be bold with your boots and embrace this trend!
Madden Girl Zorrba Boot: DSW, $60
Sharp Scarf
Scarves are easily the most versatile accessory in our wardrobes; from different patterns and textures to varying fabrics and styles, they always add just the right amount of chic to any cold weather ensemble. The winter months are dreary enough, so we love bold scarves that add a little brightness to our outfits. Choose one that keeps you toasty, too, so you’ll be sporting a posh and practical piece!
The Unisex Circle Scarf in Raspberry: American Apparel, $28
Snuggly Sweater
Chunky sweaters are the ultimate go-to for dreary, winter days; they’re as comfortable as sweats, but they still illuminate your fashion-savvy selves. What could be better? Go for a cut that hits a little below the hips so your top half doesn’t look too bulky, and scope out a classic style like this purl knit version. Your chunky sweater is one winter wardrobe staple that’ll be worn over and over for years to come!
Braided Purl Knit Sweater: Forever 21, $25
Dark Jean Queen
Dark wash jeans are timeless; they can be dressed up or down and are the most flattering of all jean washes. We love dark wash jeggings, because they strike the perfect balance between polished and comfortable—the ideal winter clothing combo. They can also be easily tucked into your boots without any excess bunching at the knees or ankles. Rock them this winter, and you’ll show off your sleek silhouette in a chic and trendy way.
Olivia Ink Rinse Low-Rise Jegging: Delia’s, $20
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Classic Coat
Having a good-quality winter coat might be obvious, but choosing the right one can be tricky. This winter wardrobe staple will probably be on the expensive side, but trust us–it’s worth it. If you choose the right coat, you’ll not only be cozy and comfy, but also fashionably fabulous! Stick to a waterproof one in a neutral color like black or navy so that you can stay warm and show off your feminine silhouette for years to come. Puffer coats are particularly trendy this season, and the big collars we’re seeing simply say snuggly.
Apt. 9 Down Puffer Jacket: Kohl’s, $80
Bold Blazer
Blazers are undoubtedly feminine, and they’re here to stay for us collegiettes™. They are a wardrobe staple that can be worn year-round, but this winter, don this piece to instantly pull together an outfit and create a sharply chic silhouette. Choose a tailored cut that subtly shows off your feminine shape, and have fun with variety! From sequins to satin, blazer details are exactly what make this must-have uniquely yours.
Sequined Collar Blazer: Forever 21, $38
Boyfriend Button-up
Nothing says cozy more than throwing on your guy’s oversized shirt. That’s why we love the idea of boyfriend-cut flannels for snuggling up this winter. Plaid versions are particularly adorable, because they’re a classic staple we’ve seen season after season. Pair with skinny jeans or leggings to balance out the loose-fitting top so you look effortlessly casual while still showing off those feminine curves on the bottom.
Urban Renewal Plaid Flannel Boyfriend Shirt: Urban Outfitters, $39
Statement Socks
High socks are all-too-often the forgotten accessory of any collegiette’s™ closet. Like scarves, they can be found in a variety of styles, textures, and fabrics, so there’s bound to be a pair of high socks for you! Not sure if you can pull them off? They are actually a necessity in the layering game. Slip them on over your jeggings or leggings, and keep them at knee’s length or scrunch them down so they peek out of your boots; either way, you’ll be warming up those legs while looking simply adorable.
A Leg Up Socks in Stone: ModCloth, $18
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Now that you have your winter wardrobe basics, it’s time to mix and match!
Weekend Cozy
Plus: SO Leggings: Kohl’s, $9
After a long week of classes, the last thing we want to do on a Saturday or Sunday morning is think about what to wear. Luckily, it’s easier than ever to look pulled together while feeling like you’re still sporting your PJs! The boyfriend-cut flannel is the perfect amount of cozy when paired with leggings and an oversized scarf. The textured socks scrunched down to your rustically chic boots will add a little bit of warmth and a lot of style to those feet!
Cute for Class
In an ideal world, we could roll out of bed 10 minutes before class and still look cute. Unfortunately, that’s nearly impossible for most of us to pull off. That’s where this ensemble comes into play. Your soft cardigan over a perfect white T is one of the most simple and adorable looks for class. Slip on a pair of hip-hugging jeggings with those high socks folded down to your boots, and you’re class-ready in minutes. Throw on that warm and cozy puffer coat on your way out, and you’ll look like a casual style sensation strutting across campus.
Ultimate Easy
This basic, yet trendy ensemble is the perfect alternative to sporting your sweats to class. Your adorably chunky sweater will keep you warm and comfy when matched with the bright scarf that adds the perfect pop of color to your outfit. Pair your top with black leggings and those chic Zorrba boots, and you’ve got yourself a fabulously comfortable ensemble that will carry you through late-night study sessions.
Study in Style
In between the stresses of school, there’s little room to think about studying in style, but this outfit is a no-brainer. Simply pair your chunky sweater with black leggings, and play with layers by slipping on your high socks, folding them down to your boots. It’ll look like you put a lot of effort into your outfit, but that’ll be your little secret. Don’t be surprised if you’re the envy of all library-goers!
December Date
Merona Ultimate Pocket V-Neck Tee: Target, $13
Wanted Glitter Skimmer: Delia’s, $15
Winter glam is all about sparkle. That’s why we love putting a classic, feminine-cut blazer with sequin detail over a simple, yet sophisticated t-shirt. Rock those jeggings to show off even more of your curves, and slip on a pair of nude, sparkly flats. Incorporating casual and flattering staples with just the right amount of shimmer will definitely have your guy giving you double takes!
What are your favorite winter wardrobe staples? Share with us below!