Completed first semester of college? Check.
Passed final exams? Check.
Prepared for brutal winter weather? Well...almost.
Okay, so choosing weather-appropriate outfits over the past few months has been a little difficult. As a college student, my schedule typically consists of attending class, reading books, and writing papers—not hitching a ride to the mall and shopping to my heart’s content. Sure, over break I managed to buy a few winter essentials and found time to rummage through my closet for some of last year’s sweaters. But as soon as I got back to school, the temperature plummeted, and I realized I had done a terrible job transitioning my wardrobe from a warm autumn to a bitter cold winter. I eventually resorted to online shopping (which I rarely do, since I’m the type of person that really needs to try things on), but storing the few things I bought proved difficult due to the fact that I share a dorm with two roommates. After all, how much can I really fit in half a closet and 3 drawers of a dresser? It soon became apparent that I needed to improvise...or else I would probably freeze to death.
Luckily, I discovered some really awesome tricks that helped me stay warm—and fashionable—throughout the cold winter months I’m spending at college.
1. Layering Tights/Leggings: So you really want to wear that cute tweed skirt, but you check the weather and it’s a frigid 15 degrees out. I’ve encountered this problem countless times. I’ll be heading out for that party across campus and remember that: A. I have to walk, and B. It’s freezing. I don’t have any thermal tights or fleece-lined leggings, but I’m definitely too stubborn to change my whole outfit. Solution? I throw on two layers of tights or leggings instead of just one. You’d be surprised at how much warmth the second layer provides. There’s only one problem: if you want to show off a pair of sheer or patterned tights, the second layer makes the tights pretty opaque and the pattern isn’t as visible—so plan accordingly!
Control-Top Tights, jcrew.com, $24.50
2. Tights & Shorts Combo: This is definitely one of my favorite looks, and it really made use of all those shorts I forgot to bring home over break! I love wearing twill, tweed, corduroy, or even vintage denim shorts with a pair of eye-catching patterned tights and cute short boots.
Pleated Shorts, H&M, $17.95
Retro Dot 1937 Tights, Madewell, $15 (sale)
3. Cardigans, Cardigans, and More Cardigans: Yes, these simple sweaters are probably the most important staple in my college wardrobe. I can’t even begin to describe all the times I layered a cardigan over a spring or summer top to make it more winter-appropriate. The key is to make sure the cardigan isn’t too lightweight; you should opt for a nice thick knit with long sleeves that will actually keep you warm! And don’t hesitate to explore different patterns or lengths. I love ones with sequins, ruffles, and unique embellishments to make my outfit a little dressier when I’m feeling lazy. Though a simple navy blue or black one is a great option too, since you can re-wear it a few times throughout the week without anyone noticing—perfect for a college student who hates doing laundry.
Lace Front Zip Cardigan, Banana Republic, $39.99 (sale)
Striped Knit Cardigan, Forever 21, $22.80
BDG Classic Solid Cardigan, Urban Outfitters, $39
4. Scarves: So, you’ve probably heard this one before. Whether it’s plain or patterned, thick or thin, simple or fancy, a scarf instantly makes any outfit more appropriate for cold-weather months. I luckily brought a few thick knit scarves with me to school, and I definitely made good use of them throughout November and December. Though, there were also days where I opted for a more lightweight floral scarf, which proved to be not only warm but also a nice feminine accent.
Snowshoeing Symposium Scarf, Modcloth, $32.99
Pieces Florissa Floral Scarf, ASOS, $21.82
5. Ditch the Up-Do: That’s right; unleash the ponytail and let those long tresses cover your ears. I didn’t have any earmuffs at school, but just leaving my hair down really helped keep me warm. Plus, it looks super feminine and effortless. Just take a look at Blake Lively; her hair down always looks polished yet totally natural.
Courtesy: PR Photos
Posted by Jaime on January 14, 2012 at 09:13 PM EST #
Posted by Jaz on January 16, 2012 at 11:01 AM EST #