Between relentless snowstorms this winter and spring break comin up next week, it’s easy to say most of us are craving for sweet summer. Although big, cozy sweaters and your favorite pair of boots are always fun to pull out of the closet in the fall, most of us are ready to pack them away and pull out our shorts and tanks. I am longing for the day to be able throw on a flowy dress in the morning and walk to class without trying to keep warm through heavy layers.
But these dresses are still a crucial part to my cold weather attire. My favorite and most effortless-looking outfit to wear is a slip or tank dress over a sheer pair of black stockings with knee-high socks. A chunky cardigan or sweater thrown over is a perfect addition to this look in the winter. You can pair this with high boots or combat boots and also switch up the stockings to a color or print, depending on your dress. This outfit gives you a bright, girly feel during this dreary weather and is really comfy, yet stylish. Although pricey, Free People sells some of my favorite slips, which can be found in store on Walnut Street.
Add some brightness to your day by mixing some of your summer floral prints with a contrasting material, such as leather. A loose, bright floral blouse with tight leather pants or a leather skater skirt is both edgy and flirty. Although most tend to lean towards black in the winter, don’t be afraid to put on a pop of color under a leather jacket. Not a big fan of floral or leather? Try a pastel tank under a dark blazer. Mixing heavier fabrics like leather with a summer color or print is an easy way to make a fashion statement without actually having to do much.
During the winter, I usually store all of my light denim items away. My boyfriend jeans and my denim button-up shirt are only pulled out when the weather warms up. However, this winter my view completely changed after being inspired by all of the bloggers who incorporate light denim into their everyday winter outfits. Blogger Danielle Bernstein of WeWoreWhat.com during New York Fashion Week does exactly this in her wardrobe. Now I truly believe this color can be worn year round. Stay warm by layering a light sweater over a denim button up or throw it over top of a comfy thermal.
Even without the warm weather, you can start to unpack those summer essentials. Try new ways to incorporate your favorite pieces into your wardrobe and bring a little more sunshine into these cold, winter days.
Photos: Neiman Marcus, StyleBlog.ca, New York Times