It’s that time again at Syracuse – the brief, gone-before-you-realized-it-was-here season of fall. Fifty-degree temperatures, mild winds (so far), and an awkward wardrobe will prevail for the next couple of weeks. If you’re lost on what to wear, try these four tips to look cool and feel warm.
1. Layering is a must. It may be a little chilly outside, but make sure to wear enough layers so you can be in control of your body temperature. It’s hard to stay cool when you’re running from class to class despite the breezy day outside. Sweaters are your friend. Once you get inside and you find yourself sweating (it’s bound to happen), you’ll be glad you wore a cardigan over your tank top so you can take it off and cool off.
2. Always check the weather. It may look nice outside when you peek out your window, but everyone knows that the wind chill in Syracuse can turn what should be warm and sunny into freezing and unbearable (or suddenly downpouring). Always have a sweatshirt or a jacket in your bag just in case the weather catches you off guard. No one wants to be the one using her Longchamp to cover her hair as she runs through the quad in the rain!
3. Wear the right shoes. Girls, hold off on the Uggs for now. Chances are, it’s not THAT cold outside yet, and sometimes wearing them can be detrimental to your otherwise cute outfit choice. Try to stay away from them until they’re really necessary. Similarly, put away the sandals and flip flops until May. Just because they are both made of rubber, doesn’t mean flip-flops can double as rain boots. If it’s too cold for flats, an alternative is to throw on a pair of ankle boots (if you’re looking for a cheap pair, Target has some great options). This way, you’ll be in the right season and still manage to retain your style.
4. Make your own trends. Fall is the easiest time to play around with your outfits and dress outside your comfort zone. It’s a transition time, so if you want to try out some different styles, go for it. You can rock white after Labor Day and mess around with the “boyfriend” look. Do it all while you still have the effort, because once winter rolls around you know you’ll just want to keep it casual. Just don’t get too extreme with your trend-making. Shorts and a Northface trench are never flattering.