Cold weather can make students want to huddle in the same old hoodie day in and day out, tossing their more presentable summer clothing in the hamper for hibernation. They get used to sweatpants that swallow them whole–fending off the freezing winds. This doesn’t have to be the end for fashion, however.  Don’t let the dreary weather win against style! 

There are plenty of ways to stay warm while kicking that blanket-like outfit to the curb where it belongs. From leg warmers and statement coats to earmuffs and other fashionable headwear, students can win the fight against Jack Frost while still looking ready to walk the catwalk. 

“My favorite winter item is sweaters, but they have to be way thick, too thick,” said senior Lexi Glass. “Layers save me. Most people layer for fashion, but I’ll add long sleeves under short sleeves then add my favorite jacket and it keeps me really warm, while looking pretty cute.”

Leg warmers can seem pretty radical, but in layering them over jeans with a favorite pair of shoes, they can add an extra layer while adding a stylish touch. They are super easy to too. Start by thrifting or reusing a worn out sweater and cut a straight line from the armpit to the deltoid region. The shoulder piece will rest on ones calf, and the cuff will set on the ankle. A perfect way to upgrade the sweater, and if you’re feeling particularly crafty, you can then turn it into a sweater vest that you can layer over a long sleeve. 

Colder weather allows us to layer our typical warmer weather clothing of plain long sleeves for an elevated look, with many different ways to go. 

“My favorite thing about winter fashion is all the possibilities,” freshman Jamison Bartnoff said. 

While it can be scary to put yourself out there in a style that is your own, it’s vital that you remember that you’re doing this for yourself. No other opinions matter. 

“I think it’s important not to shop for what is in style, but for what speaks to your own soul.” said Kristi Shaffer, who works in Student Services. 

Even if the style is unconventional, you’ll still look special and catch a lot of eyes. 

“I get inspiration from the hallways,” said Shaffer. “We have a lot of people with unique fashion sense.”

They get used to sweatpants that swallow them whole–fending off the freezing winds. This doesn’t have to be the end for fashion, however.  Don’t let the dreary weather win against style!