Once you spend a winter on campus at U of I, you quickly realize the bitter coldness of the tundra that is Champaign, Illinois. This past week is proof of that, with temperatures getting as low as one degree and wind chills as low as -15 degrees.
At the same time, you also realize that the parties don’t stop and the bars don’t close just because of a little cold. You can always find people going out no matter what the weather is, which is one of the reasons U of I’s nightlife is so great. But what can a collegiate wear in the dead of winter? Well, these four items will definitely help you get through the frigid winter nights so you can make it to KAM’s without any frost bite.
1. Faux Fur Vest
Faux fur vests have been really popular on campus lately and it’s no mystery why. These vests are both cozy and warm, but they are also really glamorous and chic. Whether you want a puffy faux fur vest or instead want to opt for an A-line shearling one, you really can’t go wrong. You’ll look fierce and be comfortable in either style! Faux fur vests are a fabulous way to keep warm on your night out making them an absolute must-have in your winter wardrobe!
2. Cute Beanie
For those casual nights out, a beanie is the perfect edition to your warm, cozy outfit. A lot of people think hats don’t work for them, but beanies are actually pretty universally flattering. So don’t be afraid to give this hat a try! Pair it with a slouchy sweater, dark wash skinny jeans and leather booties and head to Firehaus for a casual night of beer and good company!
3. Big, Colorful Scarf
An oversized, colorful scarf makes a big statement. We’re not talking your typical “fashion” scarf you can get at places like Charming Charlie’s and those small vendors in the walkways of malls. We’re talking a big, comfy, cozy, blanket-like scarf.
It might not sound like going out attire, but a scarf like this is so versatile. You can wear it as you normally would, drape it over your shoulders like poncho or belt it for a super chic, runway worthy look that also happens to be incredibly warm. Plus, owning this kind of scarf in a fun, bright color is sure to make a statement and have all your friends gawking in jealousy.
4. Leather Jacket
Trust me when I say that not wearing a jacket out in the winter is overrated. We’ve all done it, but it’s just not worth the shivering sprint to the bar or the oncoming cold. A leather jacket might not be the warmest coat, but it’s better than no jacket at all. It also doesn’t hurt that a leather jacket is easy to throw on over virtually anything and it’ll be a lot warmer than any shirt, sweater or dress that you were thinking about wearing without a coat. If you plan on venturing out to Red Lion in the winter months, invest in a leather jacket ASAP!
Unfortunately, the freezing temperatures and snowy conditions are just something us Illini have to accept come wintertime at U of I. However, we all know that’s not going to stop us from going out every night. Instead of avoiding the cold or going out unprepared, add these four items to your closet and your winter nights out will be so much more tolerable!
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