This morning I walked outside in boots, jeans, a baggy sweater and a fleece. By the time I had walked to my 9:30 a.m. political science class, I could feel the heat waves building up inside my coat. My hair was stuck to the back of my neck. I felt gross and sticky. For a second there, I truly forgot it was January.
It’s just a little bit too warm outside for cashmere. The sky is an ever-present shade of Carolina blue and thermometers are still not sinking below 45 degrees … even though it’s the dead of winter. What’s a girl to do? Our favorite knits and down coats are collecting dust in the back of our closets. Even though we are just a couple weeks past Christmas and New Year’s, for some reason Mother Nature forgot to change seasons. It is way too warm to dress in full-on winter clothing. But, wearing sundresses and Lilly Pulitzer won’t do either.
I’m still seriously upset about not being able to pull out my toboggan. But, there are still many great winter options. Below is a comprehensive list of winter staple items that can be mixed and matched, and added to almost any wardrobe. Basically, you can keep that winter feel without sweating through your sweater on the way to class.
Circle scarves
Here’s my theory about circle scarves – I don’t think the person who invented them made them to withstand the cold. Which is why they’re perfect for a winter where the temperature does not drop below 50 degrees. In general, I’m obsessed with any accessory that can make a t-shirt look mod, which is the precisely the beauty of the circle scarf. They come in all different colors and patterns. Pair them with a button up, cardigan or knit; these scarves will winterize any look in a heartbeat. Check out this one from Urban Outfitters.
Vests
Whether you are trying to wear the rocker chic, city girl or outdoorsy look, vests are a great accessory. There are fur vests, fleece vests, blazer vests and sweater vests (not the dorky kind). Vests are good for a warm winter, because they give the illusion of trying to dress warm – but without sleeves, you are guaranteed to be dressed appropriately for the lack of snow.
Patterned tights/high socks
Adding patterned tights or wearing high socks that peek out over top of your boots are easy ways to make any look elegantly glam. The best part of patterned tights or high socks is that they add a little something extra, without taking away from an outfit. You can still wear a patterned sweater with a skirt and patterned tights.
A long staple necklace
It seems that everywhere this winter you see a girls wearing a thin, long necklace to make every look just a little bit trendier. Although these necklaces, do not winterize a look – they easily make a sweater, fleece or vest a little more dressed up. My personal favorites are a long pendant with a feather or a big stone, but the end charm can be simply anything.
Bright Colored Flats
So owning bright colored flats aren’t specifically a staple of winter. In fact, me suggesting that you buy a pair of flashy, bright shoes may go against everything we are usually taught about winter fashion. But, it never hurts to add a bit of color to brighten up the drudgery of grays and blacks that comprise your wardrobe during these months. It will brighten up your mood, too! Shoes have an inexplicable power to raise one’s spirits and to elevate a dark outfit. I know Imelda Marcos would agree. And don’t worry about clashing colors. Since there will be a separation of color between your shirt and your pants, you can buy just one pair and place them with anything. I want the pink ones! The best part is they will be a great addition to your spring wardrobe as well.
Sources:
Pink ballet flats (photo): jcrew.com; http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shoes/ballets/PRDOVR~36243/36243.jsp
Diamond-patterned tights (photo): forever21.com; http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_legwear_tights&ProductID=2087533251&VariantID=
Circle scarf (photo): urbanoutfitters.com; http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=23423437&color=065&itemdescription=true&navAction=jump&search=true&isProduct=true&parentid=W_ACC_SCARVES
Birds of a Feather necklace (photo): forever21.com; http://www.forever21.com/images/more/76807139-01.jpg
Collection B Faux Fur Arctic vest (photo): Nordstrom.com; http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/collection-b-faux-arctic-fur-vest-juniors/3239365?origin=keywordsearch&resultback=0
Patagonia Women’s Classic Retro-X vest (photo): patagonia.com; http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/womens-classic-retro-x-fleece-vest?p=23080-0-700