If the weather in Wisconsin could be described in one word it would be unpredictable. I swear, one day it’s snowing, and the next it’s 65 and sunny. There’s no way of knowing which way the wind will blow, and the everyday struggle of deciding what coat is appropriate for the weather is not always easy. Here’s a foolproof guide to every coat you should consider having in your closet to help combat the uncertainty that is Wisconsin weather.
1. The Parka
There is nothing worse than negative temperatures, but there’s also nothing better than wearing a parka on these frigid days. The feeling of wearing a parka can be compared to putting on a big fuzzy blanket and works perfectly on days you have to run a quick errand and don’t feel like changing out of your pajamas! Let’s be honest: the parka is the best security blanket you could own.
Suggested Weather: -55 degrees – 32 degrees, snowing & windy
2. The Winter Jacket
Not to be confused with a parka. These usually are much shorter than the parka, not offering the full coverage that the parka does, it’s more suitable for those winter days that don’t seem that cold. Typically, not as warm as a parka, this is best worn on those sunny winter days when it doesn’t really feel that bad out.
Suggested Weather: 32 degrees-45 degrees, sunny & minimal wind
3. The Rain Jacket
This goes without saying, it rains A LOT in Madison. Not only does it rain a lot in Madison, it’s also incredibly windy in Madison. That being said, there’s nothing more annoying than using your umbrella and have it turn inside out on you. The solution is easy; rain jacket! Rain jackets are nice too because they usually aren’t that warm, which prevents you from sweating when it’s rainy and humid.
Suggested Weather: 55-65 degrees, rainy & low humidity
4. The Vest
Vests are my favorite thing, even though they really don’t make that much sense. My arms get a lot colder than my torso, but somehow wearing the vest makes me feel a lot warmer than I actually am. Vests can be worn so many different ways. You can pair with either a super cute scarf, cute sweatshirt, etc. The possibilities are endless when it comes to wearing a vest, making it an easy staple in any college student’s closet! Suggested Weather: 35-65 degrees, depending on what you are wearing under the vest!
5. The Trench Coat
Nothing is more trendy than this coat. It isn’t always the warmest coat, but that’s okay–you’re not wearing it for warmth anyway. This jacket is made to be worn over cuter outfits, usually when it’s not quite warm enough to not be wearing a jacket. Suggested Weather: 50-60 degrees
6. The Fleece
Fleeces are really nice. They’re a nice cover up for pretty much anything and everything. A common wear is a sweatshirt underneath with a fleece over for that little layer of extra warmth. These are perfect for the spring time season, especially when it gets a little cooler at night.
Suggested Weather: 45-60 degrees
7. The Jean Jacket
The Jean Jacket is by far the most versatile. You can wear it in any weather, really. You can even wear it as a piece of clothing under your winter jacket. The jean jacket is timeless, and will be in style for years to come. I would suggest picking up one now, and can guarantee you will have it in your wardrobe for years to come.
Suggested Weather: 60-70 degrees, sunny & early spring days
8. The Army Jacket
Typically used in spring and fall, this jacket is a go-to jacket when you don’t feel like taking off your jacket when you arrive to your destination. This jacket is becoming increasing popular and looks great with almost any neutral color under it. Suggested Weather: 50-65, early fall & spring
The weather will always be unpredictable, but never worry as long as you easily have these coats on hand!