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Fashion and Function: 7 Essentials for Your Winter Closet

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

Fall is almost coming to an end and as the leaves are falling to the ground, so is our motivation for this semester. In the midst of deadlines and submissions, the only solace one can find is through fashion. A great outfit can really make your day so much better, in my opinion. These staple items will give you the confidence to brace the cold, harsh weather that is eminent. Apparently this winter is going to be way colder than last year!

It’s an ongoing struggle to choose to make an effort every morning (especially when you have an 8:30 class) with your outfit. But, from personal experience, the days I have tried to be more presentable, I’ve felt a lot better about myself.

Minimalism is the new trend nowadays, and it’s actually very dynamic as it allows you to be creative with your outfits, rather than rocking the same old style. To achieve this look, it’s important to have versatile items that can facilitate your transition from Fall to Winter fashion.

Here is my list of the 7 items that you absolutely need to kill it this winter (or at least attempt to):

1. Statement Coat

A coat is your best friend during these cold, grey months. Whether you feel like it or not (we are in Montreal), you literally have to wear it every day, and it can really affect the rest of your style. I suggest choosing a versatile, yet comfortable coat; preferably something colourful. It’s very easy to always pick a black coat that seems neutral, but when the world outside is gloomy, it will help to have a coat that adds a pop of colour to your outfit, instead of making you disappear in the crowd.

Current popular styles include: pea coats, faux fur coats, military style coats and chesterfield coats.

 

2. Blanket Scarf

As you all know, if you don’t want to die from hypothermia, a warm scarf is an essential part of your everyday style. Finding the perfect scarf can be a struggle, but in my opinion, the only style of scarf you need this winter is a huge blanket scarf preferably in plaid or any other pattern. The scarf will keep you warm, but a nice pattern can also complete your look. Fashion and function is the key.

3. Ankle Boots

We all know how harsh a Montreal winter can be; the slush is everywhere and our bulky Sorels or Uggs can be so annoying to wear at times. Thus for days when there isn’t a slab of ice on the pavements, I suggest you invest in some durable and waterproof ankle boots like the Chelsea boots. These boots will be way more stylish than snow boots and will add that extra “oomph” to your outfit.

4. Any Kind of Sweater

Sweaters are the perfect layering item. You can dress them up or down. It’s essential to have a nice cashmere, turtleneck or knitwear that’s super thick. They will keep you cozy and provide a ton of room to explore outfit ideas. Turtlenecks are my favourite as there is just so much you can do with them!

5. Over-the-Knee Boots

These items are more fashion over function, but they’ll make your outfit the talk of the town. They’re perfect for those mildly cold days where you can get away with wearing a more fun outfit. They come in different styles and textures, but suede is one of the trendiest textures for knee high boots at the moment. They can really help you to dress up a simple outfit. You can take them from day to night in the blink of an eye.

6. Ponchos 

I love this trend! Ponchos have made a comeback and rightly so! They are super easy to work with and are the perfect union of fashion and function. You can layer so many items with ponchos, while keeping yourself looking warm and put together.

7. Leather Jacket

A classic leather jacket is a must. You can layer it with other items for maximum warmth and style. You can give a simple outfit that extra edge and make it super chic! You don’t have to wear your winter coat every single day, just layer a ton and wear your favourite leather jacket to keep your outfit super fashionable, yet warm.

 

Just because the weather outside is cold and grey doesn’t mean your outfit needs to be as well. Experiment with layering and use your items from fall to create new looks for winter that will keep you warm and make you stand out! 

 

Images and Information obtained from:

http://www.brightontheday.com/10353/you-can-never-be-overdressed-or-over…

http://nymag.com/thecut/2015/10/cozy-coats-in-every-color-of-the-rainbow…

https://www.thetrendspotter.net/2015/06/10-winter-wardrobes-essentials-y…

http://blog.kipling-usa.com/fashion/seasonal-fashion-transition-from-fal…

https://www.thetrendspotter.net/2016/07/stylish-winter-coats-to-update-y…