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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois State chapter.

Although winter can bring snow, cold, dreary days and unavoidable tiredness that makes you want to stay in your pajamas all day, it doesn’t mean you can’t still dress to impress in a more casual way during these gruesome months. Winter fashion has evolved over the past couple of years thanks to apps like TikTok and Instagram. It seems like now more than ever, influencers are focusing on a more casual but accessorized winter wardrobe that allows you to stay cozy while still looking cute. 

layering

Frigid temperatures mean you can’t simply run out of the house in just one layer (sadly), but thankfully there’s an array of ways to amp up your outfit while staying warm too. Vests have been a huge trend this year to layer over sweaters or sweatshirts, which is a super simple way to add some warmth to your outfit. Another huge winter trend is leather, which you can combine with the vest trend, like this Zara faux leather puffer vest. Although the traditional winter parka will always be a winter essential especially in extremely cold climates, puffer coats and jackets have taken over as the new hot trend because they add to your outfit instead of covering it up. Stores like H&M offer a cropped puffer coat and Forever 21 has this super cute green puffer for a subtle pop of color, both being on the affordable side too! Adding a mock neck underneath a crewneck sweatshirt also adds a cute touch plus added warmth.

Accessorizing

The easiest way to instantly play up your outfit is by adding some of your favorite accessories. Gold layered necklaces are especially popular as of late because they add a simplistic yet stylish touch to any outfit. Stacked earrings, are also a great choice because it gives you a wide variety of styles to change up your look on a day-to-day basis, Amazon has a range of different sets including this gold dangle set. Beanies have been a huge trend for years now, not only are they practical but they also are a winter essential. Carhartt has transitioned into a much more gender-inclusive brand now and they make a ton of cute colors in their infamous beanies, like this light pink Carhartt women’s beanie available at Dick’s Sporting Goods. On those days you don’t feel like doing your hair, claw clips are a super easy way to throw your hair up and keep that effortlessly cute look.

LOUNGEWEAR AND MATCHING SWEATSUITS

Winter fashion doesn’t mean you have to wear jeans and a sweater every day, in fact, loungewear has definitely been elevated to new levels in recent recently, so you’re able to look effortlessly put together throughout the whole season. Flared leggings or yoga pants have made a comeback and they’re an easy way to upgrade from just a plain pair of leggings. Aerie’s viral crossover flare legging comes in an array of different colors and features a super flattering waistline. Sweatpants are a personal favorite of mine, especially when it’s super cold outside, a simple way to make them look a bit more put-together is by pairing them with a matching hoodie or crew neck so you have a matching set. These sweatpants and oversized sweatshirts from White Fox Boutique are a great example of how you don’t have to give up the stylish aspect to stay comfy!

Trendy shoes

In my opinion, a solid pair of shoes instantly makes your outfit cuter. You can never go wrong with a simple pair of leather sneakers in the winter, like Nike Air Force 1’s, Blazers, or leather platform Converse, not only are these a staple but because they’re leather they’ll also be relatively easy to clean off snow or salt from outside. A big trend as seen on TikTok recently has been Ultra Mini Uggs, which can be paired with your matching sweatsuit or flared leggings for a laid-back look that will also keep your feet warm. If you’re looking for something a little edgier to pair with jeans, platform Doc Marten’s are a staple for dressing up an otherwise simple outfit.

Winter fashion doesn’t have to be boring! Playing up your simple outfits is the easiest way to look stylish all year round. TikTok and Instagram have tons of creators displaying their winter style favorites, which is a great place to get more inspiration for yourself. You never have to compromise a cute outfit just because it’s cold outside, find ways to make it work by layering up and accessorizing for the perfect, yet practical winter wardrobe.

Carley Stone

Illinois State '22

Hi! My name is Carley and I'm a senior at Illinois State majoring in Journalism with a minor in Sociology. In my free time I love working out, hanging out with friends and family and shopping! I also love writing and I am so excited to be a part of Her Campus :) follow my ig! @carleystone_