The holiday season is as multifaceted as you are, giving you plenty of opportunities to display your personality through a variety of outfits. From November to January, there are all sorts of festivities that require an extra sparkle to your ensemble, but there are also ways to add a touch of holiday cheer to the everyday outfit. This time of year gives us an excuse to deck out even the most mundane wardrobe.
Icy winter weather may not allow for the sort of fun little outfits summer does, but that does not mean the season is not conducive for fashion. Think of the cold air as an excuse to have fun with layers. A scarf in a bright color or an interesting pattern adds a pop of style and protects from the wind. Hats also have the same effect, particularly the beret, a classic wardrobe staple that is currently making a comeback. Add a nice soft pair of gloves, a warm coat, and a cute pair of boots, and you will conquer both fashion and the elements.
Unfortunately, the holiday season does not slow down the college workload. The closer the holidays are, the closer we are to finals, and the workload piles up like a mound of snow. But there’s an easy solution to fashion troubles as the happiest time of the year turns into the most stressful. On the days you would normally just run out the door in jeans and a sweatshirt, simply replace the sweatshirt with a colorful, festive sweater. And if you have enough time, add a twist to your look by tying a ribbon in your hair, which won’t take long and will also keep your hair out of your face during those long, studious hours. These are elegant ways to trick people into thinking you put a lot of effort into your outfit while also adding some cheer to the day.
When classes start to wind down and holiday parties start to replace homework, it becomes time for a more thought-out, fancy look. For those who love to wear dresses and skirts but are worried about the cold weather, it is possible to retain a cute sense of style and avoid being cold at the same time. By wearing tights, either in subtle, classy black or a bold color, you can elevate your outfit and stay warm. Tights can add a splash of personality to any outfit. Over a given dress or skirt ensemble, there is an additional chance to layer, namely through cardigans and the like. But dresses are not always practical, and in that case, a pair of trousers will do nicely, whether they are a plain color or a subtle print. And while we’re being fancy, go for the full bling and wear all the jewelry you like. Maybe even add string lights to your look, depending on the occasion. After all, the holiday season is basically an excuse to dress and behave as dramatically and over-the-top as possible.
Holiday fashion is incredibly versatile, after all, the season itself calls for a great many occasions, whether these occasions are religious holidays or generic celebrations of winter and the delights of snowy weather. May this year’s holidays be merry and bright and may everyone find a holiday outfit that suits their needs and sensibilities.
*Photos Courtesy of Audra Nemirow