The temperatures are dropping, we’re counting down the days until Thanksgiving break, and it’s officially red cup season at Starbucks—meaning winter is almost here. For many collegiettes, the colder months can often mean looking cute for class takes a little bit of a hit—after all, who wants to get up early on a dark, cold morning and put on anything other than sweats? What’s a fashionista to do?
It turns out that, when styled correctly, your sweats just might be some of the chicest pieces in your closet. That hoodie you normally reserve for early morning coffee runs and trips to the gym? It can actually look good—and will keep you comfy and cozy all day long. Don’t believe us? These looks just might change your mind.
1. The zip-up
A no-fail way to glam up a hoodie? Lots of layers. While a simple gray zip hoodie may look bland and boring at first, it adds a sporty look when worn over a classic red stripe tee and under a faux leather vest, which gives the outfit a luxe edge. A knit pencil skirt is a fall must-have—it looks polished and pulled together, but only you know that it’s also as comfy as wearing a snuggly blanket all day! Timeless faux suede booties with a slight heel perfectly balance out your skirt’s midi length.
Related: 3 Stylish Ways to Wear Ugg Boots (Yes, We’re Serious!)
2. The pullover
When picking a pullover, a cropped style like this navy pick is best. While an oversize shape can tend to look more like your go-to sweater to snuggle up in for some quality Netflix time, a cropped silhouette looks more put together and allows for layering. Wear a crisp, white button down underneath—it adds polish to a casual piece! Edgy leather pants with zipper details are the cool-girl alternative to plain black jeans and dress up your look just enough. Finish off the look with leopard print flats for a splash of fun color and print. A minimalist gray backpack is the perfect cool and casual carryall!
3. The athleisure statement piece
ICYMI, athleisure has been EVERYTHING lately—and this bright, statement-making Adidas hoodie is the perfect way to try the trend. To style it, keep the rest of your look minimalist and simple to let your sweatshirt shine as the main piece. A wrap style midi skirt is effortlessly chic. Pairing it with sneakers is unexpected and gives off the perfect sporty vibe to match your sweatshirt. To dress up the look, an oversize gunmetal cuff on your wrist and a delicate chain bag add just enough bling.
4. The chic cowl neck
A classy cowl-neck sweatshirt will easily become your new go-to night-out piece—and it’s the perfect way to look chic while staying warm on a chilly night! An on-trend suede button-front skirt and a furry vest on top dress this look up enough for Saturday night. Red croc pointed-toe ankle booties are a cool, it-girl choice for going out but are way more practical than heels. Switch out your typical cross body bag for a bucket bag, a.k.a. the season’s trendiest bag shape.
5. The minimalist graphic
Like your favorite graphic tee, a graphic hoodie has cool, casual vibes but is a much more winter-appropriate choice! Here, a denim-on-denim ensemble looks on point—layer your sweatshirt under a denim jacket and rock a pair of distressed black skinnies on bottom. Make an eye-catching, shiny statement with metallic flats and a sparkly ear cuff!
The bottom line? When you need to strike a balance between cute and comfy, a sweatshirt will become your unexpected new BFF!