Article by Lily Park
Fall is arguably the most confusing time for fashion lovers and especially in Maryland with the weather being all over the place. Half of the time you’re sweating by the time you get to class and the other half it’s windy and freezing. Taking advantage of the short window between shorts and a t-shirt weather and before you break out the puffer jackets is a yearly struggle. Here is a guide on how to dress appropriately for the fall weather while still looking fashionable as a college student. All links and recommendations below!
Layering
Layering is ESSENTIAL for dressing for the fall weather. If you’re layering you’re always going to be dressed correctly. One of the best ways to layer in the fall is a skirt and tights. When it comes to this look, playing with different textures is definitely your friend. Go for leather, knit or even a lace combo. This look screams elegance and looks put-together, while still being warm. If this look feels too overdressed to wear during the school week, another great option to wear to class is the classic jeans and a tank top or tee shirt layered with an open sweater. The open sweater style looks effortlessly chic and is perfect for when the weather is unpredictable. However you chose to layer, remember that functionality is fashionable.
Shoes
Although boots may seem like the obvious choice to look fashionable in the fall season, don’t sleep on them. Some of my personal favorites are the Dr. Martens lace up boots or Chelsea boots, Mini or Ultra Mini Uggs, Steve Madden Booties and Timberlands. These are just a few of the millions of options available for functional and stylish boots for the fall. Pairing a boot with some loose-fitting denim jeans and a big chunky knit sweater is the ultimate recipe for the perfect fall outfit. Boots aside, some of the other great shoe options that scream fall are a nice black loafer, Ugg Slippers, Birkenstock Boston slip-on shoes and a nice neutral sneaker. Whichever type of shoes you wear in the fall, the most important factors are that they are fitting with a warm color palette and actually provide warmth to your feet.
Shacket
If you don’t already know what a shacket is, let me just say it is life changing. A shacket is essentially a crossover between a shirt and a jacket. Shacket’s provide just the right amount of warmth during pre-puffer jacket season. They are great to layer with, and can be easily tossed aside when the sun comes out. Lots of shackets come in fall festive patterns and textures such as plaid, stripes, wool, cashmere, and leather. Wearing a shacket instantly makes an outfit look cooler for the fall time, while still providing the same use as the classic zip-up sweatshirt. Some great places to purchase shackets, of all price points, are Abercrombie, Free People, and Forever 21.
Thrifting
Thrift stores are often overflowing with sweaters, sweatshirts, sweatpants, long sleeve shirts, winter jackets, bomber jackets, leather jackets and everything that you could need for the cold weather. I recommend going to your local thrift store and finding some vintage sweaters for a retro look. I also recommend shopping in the mens section to find outerwear, for an oversized and baggy look. Thrifting is also a great way to not only be environmentally friendly, but also wallet friendly. As college students it can be hard to find ways to spice up your wardrobe depending on the season, but thrifting is a great way to get quality clothing that keeps you warm, for a fraction of the price.