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Cold Weather Party Outfits

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Caroline Szachnowski Student Contributor, University of Wisconsin - Madison
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wisconsin chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

There is nothing more satisfyingly simple than dressing oneself for a night out in the spring or summer.  Layering does not exist.  Keeping warm is not a factor in the decision, because the balmy temperatures have that taken care of.  But let’s be realistic.  As painful as it is at times, we live in Wisconsin- a state where, at bare minimum, half of the year is comparable to frozen tundra.  Because of this, staying both fashionable and weather-conscious for a night out can be the ultimate challenge.  Let this guide of cold weather fashion staples be the inspiration you need to dress both stylishly and warmly for a night out in WisCOLDsin. 

Leather Jacket

Leather jackets are the lifesavers of jacket variations during the winter months.  They go with essentially everything and automatically add an edge to one’s look.   G Eazy knew what he was talking about in his “Leather Jacket Killer” rap, seeing as a leather jacket ensemble can make even the most wan of girls both feel and look undeniably fierce.  Try pairing a black leather jacket with a flowy tank top, neutral-colored or print tee, and skinny jeans (or jeggings) and either converse high-tops, flats, or dress boots.  If you prefer, leather jackets also look effortlessly cool over body-con dress or with leggings. 

Trench coat

There is something incredibly chic about a trench coat outfit ensemble.  Images of strutting through the streets of New York with a takeaway coffee and a designer bag instantly come to mind.  This image can very easily be made into a reality.  Its versatility allows a trench coat to be worn both during the day and night.  This factor drastically lessens the amount of time needed to change from everyday wear into “going out” clothes.  The length of a trench coat permits you to get away with wearing a dress or skirt underneath without the awkward effect doing so with a short pea coat would have on the look.  A standard trench coat outfit combination for a night out could easily consist of either leggings or black jeans, riding boots, and either a lace top or even a more festive-looking sweater underneath.  They are formfitting and one can opt to wear them either buttoned or unbuttoned.  Add in an infinity scarf and/or a fashionable purse and you’re good to go. 

Military Jacket

Conveniently on trend this season, a military jacket is a staple piece for both everyday wear, as well as an ideal layering essential for a college party.  An edgy piece, the military jacket can easily be incorporated with a V-neck, graphic tee, or a tunic.  For pants, opt for a distressed or faded pair of jeans.  Accessorize the look with either lace-up or combat boots and a necklace or dynamic pair of earrings. 

Sweater dress

 If you are torn between wearing a dress and a sweater, you can essentially wear both at once.  A sweater dress is the ideal clothing choice for staying cute and casual, as well as chic and party-ready.  To prevent pneumonia and hypothermia, I highly recommend wearing black tights underneath and choosing a knee-length boot.  To further accessorize the look, put on a statement necklace and snuggle into any one of the jackets above. 

Though going out can be a fashion hassle and certainly requires more work throughout the colder months, looking both trendy while not freezing is very much possible.  Allow this list to serve as a baseline for cold weather outfit combinations.  

My name is Caroline Szachnowski and I am a writer for the Her Campus University of Wisconsin chapter. I am a junior majoring in creative writing and international studies with the aspiration to be a professional writer and/or editor post graduation. My hobbies other than writing include learning and speaking foreign languages, traveling, reading, frequent shopping binges, going to the beach whenever possible, volunteering, and drinking way too much coffee.