December is here, and we are ready to dress for the cold whether the calendar officially calls it winter or not. Snow or not, the chill of the wind and lack of sunlight hours mean that it’s time to layer clothes to keep warm. There are of course some staples like jackets that are a go-to winter layer, but there’s lots of ways to add extra accessories to add extra warmth and dress up an outfit.
The past few years, puffer jackets seemed to be everywhere and this year is no different. These black puffy jackets seem to be what’s keeping everyone warm and a staple in their everyday attire. Most students opt for a shorter jacket rather than a full length one, which may be for fashion or the convenience of carrying a smaller jacket.
“Some hallways in school get pretty cold while other classes feel hot, so I like to carry around my jacket in case I want to take it on or off,” said senior Luna Romero.
On days that students want an extra layer under their jackets to keep them warm or a lighter jacket to wear outside, sherpa fleeces seem to be one of the more popular options. They are super versatile, and can act as a midlayer or jacket, and also can be worn all day whether you are inside or outside. There is also an array of options when it comes to these fleeces, not only because there are multiple color options, but also the numerous zipper options, including full length or quarter zip versions.
Having layers is helpful and important because of the range in temperature throughout the building in different classrooms.
“I love wearing more neutral colors in winter since it helps me create outfits that match more easily for school,” said senior Tori Kaufman.
When the temperature drops we see UGG shoes reemerge. UGGs have emerged as staple winter footwear due to their warm, fuzzy insides. There are, of course, always the classic UGG slippers, but lots of other popular styles have emerged, adding variety to winter shoe fashion. Students have started wearing tazmen, boot, and even sneaker versions of UGG shoes as well. The UGG trend demonstrates how we often see a shift or a new fashionable winter item emerge after the holidays. Students often go online or see gifts other students received after break and get inspired by a fashion item. This can mark the beginning of a trend including shoe trends like we saw with mini UGG boots a few years ago.
“I love the UGGs I have currently and wear them all the time, which is why I asked for new UGG boots this year for the holidays,” said senior Haley Hyman.
Other winter essentials we can’t forget are accessories, including hats, gloves, and scarfs. These are all ways to add extra warmth and style to your outfits. Students often opt for sets of accessories that match or complement each other, especially in neutral tones like beige, gray, and black, which are easy to pair with any jacket. Accessories continue to follow the pattern of being bought in neutral colors, except for scarfs which can also be seen in more fun patterns, adding some color to a more neutral outfit.
As winter fashion continues to evolve each year, students find ways to make practical pieces stylish by layering smart, choosing colors they can mix and match, and watching how new trends emerge throughout the season. Whether it’s a favorite pair of UGGs, a neutral sherpa fleece, or a statement scarf, winter style is a mix of comfort, creativity, and keeping warm in the unpredictable cold.