Remember when you were a little kid and your mom would stuff you into colorful, marshmallow-like coats, a scarf, a hat, and mittens, and then put your hood up so the only thing visible were your eyes? Then you had to waddle like a penguin out the door, barely able to move at a normal pace, all just to walk to the car. Now that you are in college, you don’t want to stroll around campus dressed like Randy from A Christmas Story, so Her Campus is here to guide you through ways to look cute and still stay warm!
The key to achieving this daunting task is to layer. Most of you are probably very familiar with layering; maybe you’re even a layering pro! But what’s fundamental when it comes to winter layering is mixing and matching thin layers with thick layers.
For the first layer, choose a thin, long-sleeve tee or woven button-up top. This will not only keep you warm, but it can really add to an outfit. Choose a striped or polka-dot design for a mixed pattern look. Next, choose a thick sweater, cardigan or blazer in a complementary solid or pattern as a good establishing piece to keep you warm inside all day. For bottoms, add your favorite skinny jeans, leggings or even fleece-lined tights with a cute mini skirt. Finally add cozy boot socks and your warmest boots.
Now let’s bundle up and brace the chilling winds! Let’s start with a coat- there are a lot of trends that hit the fall runways that made jackets the focal piece of an outfit. One of these trends is a classic pea coat, but with modern updates like a bright color or leather or fur accents and trimmings. Another trend is an olive green parka with a fur hood. A third trend to try is a toggle coat in modern colors and embellishments.
Once you choose a coat that fits your personal style, it’s time to accessorize! You need to keep that pretty little head of yours warm, so add a knit beanie to keep the heat in. To reduce on the bulk of a scarf, choose a warmer fabric like wool, or choose a cable knit infinity scarf. Add leather or knit gloves to keep your hands nice and toasty.
You are now ready to venture out into the cold looking like a cute fashionista instead of a bigger version of your 4-year-old self. Happy winter, collegiettes!