Sometimes, I just want to shout, “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?” at the gloomy St. Louis sky. Is it raining, is it 98°, is a tornado about to touch down? Who really knows anymore? With the ever-changing weather, choosing your outfit each morning can be nearly impossible, especially as fall approaches. Instead of accepting the fact that you’ll either be too cold or too hot, remember these tips when you stare blankly at your closet before your 10am class.
1. Bring a layer: Whether it’s a flannel shirt or a knit pullover, be prepared for a sudden drop in temperature. This is especially important for days when it’s supposed to rain. Don’t worry about lugging it from class to class or shoving it in your backpack- just tie it around your waist. I know I know… this kind of brought me back to 5th grade when I tied my LTD TOO sweatshirt around my waist with my zip-off pants. Just take it from MK Olsen… It’s actually a thing now.
Olsensanonymous.blogspot.com
2. Opt for a maxi: For those 67° days where you’re not quite sure if you want to go with shorts or pants, throw on a maxi dress or skirt. This way, you have the airiness of a dress with the cover of a pant. If you get warm throughout the day, tie a knot on either side to shorten the length. Plus, everyone knows maxis are essentially crotch-less pajamas, so you can look trendy but feel like you just hopped out of bed. What could be better?
Kimchi Blue Knit Pleated Maxi Skirt (Urbanoutfitters.com)
3. Sneakers are the move: The halfway point between sandals and boots is a cute, versatile sneaker. Lucky for us, skater flats have made a comeback, and they’re available in a variety of colors, patterns, and materials. If you prefer laces, put on your Converse or Supergas. Pair simple sneakers with patterned ankle socks to spice up a simple shoe.
Keepcalmandchiffon.blogspot.com (TopShop shoes)
4. Invest in a pair of boyfriend jeans: Sometimes, the idea of constricting jeans seems so unpleasant I actually get uncomfortable just thinking about it. Loose-fitting, ripped boyfriend jeans are both effortless and easy to wear, making them the perfect fall essential. They’re also warm enough on a cooler day but breathable, especially if they’re ripped enough for your grandma to say, “Did you pay extra for those holes?”
Wardrobelooks.com (via ashley-ringmybell.blogspot.co.uk)
5. Throw on a scarf: I am always amazed at how warm scarves keep me in the winter. On a breezy day, add a light scarf to your ensemble for added warmth. If you get too hot, you can always take it off. A scarf is also an easy way to add detail to a simple outfit, like boyfriend jeans and a plain tee. I prefer circle scarves because it requires approximately zero effort to make them look cute, and you can also wear it long or wrap it for a shorter length.
Lululemon Vinyasa Scarf (via Phi-style.com)
6. Vests- they’re jackets without sleeves: Sometimes I forget that vests are the perfect extra layer for a chilly day. They are the ideal weight and will keep your torso warm without making you sweat. Pair a Patagonia vest with a more athletic, outdoorsy look, or a denim vest with a feminine maxi.
Crossroadstraining.com
MOST IMPORTANTLY: Always keep an umbrella in your bag!
Freshjess.com, Marc by Marc Jacobs umbrella