The degrees are going down and the amount of layers is loading up, as Old Man Winter is right around the corner. There are some great women’s fashion surprises in store, as sexy is back along with warm knits, bright colors, and cinched waists.
Unfortunately, as much as most wish they could afford runway chic, a college student’s budget is a little more on the retail side. As much as we would all love to live in our Sex and The City fantasy world, that cute suit from Dolce and Gabana probably wouldn’t be that practical for the bitter winter of Plymouth.
The biggest problem that female students tend to face is that they are stuck in a crossover between the junior and women’s department. College students want to look young and hip, but mature and stylish as well. We want to be seen as adults, but still incorporate a youthful flare, and we want our wardrobe to represent that. Specialty stores such as Express, American Eagle, The Gap and Old Navy have great campus styles that are a step above the juniors department.
The other difficult part is the season. Temperatures in Plymouth can reach the single digits and below during the winter months, and it’s hard to be stylish piled underneath layers of fleece and down.
Many girls find that they need outerwear for everyday and for going out. The jacket tends to take the most out of their clothing budgets, but once acquiring a good one (or two) it will last you for a couple of years. Look for classic styles that compliment your shape instead of heavy looks that hang like a blanket
Looking for the perfect everyday coat to wear for the end of fall/beginning of winter? Try a nice wool pea coat or the navy modern duffle coat from The Gap. This wool coat hits mid-thigh, has a hood, and a concealed zip closure beneath a toggle button front. Both a pea coat and duffle coat will look great with jeans or a skirt and they still look cute with a chunky sweater underneath.
Once the weather starts getting into the teens, it’s time to turn to the puffy jacket or vest. For the ever-changing temperatures, check out Express’s down coat in metallic gold. Not only is it one of the season’s hottest colors, but also the jacket has detachable sleeves, so you can wear as either a jacket or a vest.
Some people may not be into the metallic, so The Gap, Old Navy, and American Eagle all make their own version of the down jacket. The best part is that there are options of different lengths and styles. Some come with faux fur, extra pockets, and different materials.
Along with a jacket, another major style staple are knits and sweaters. This season there is a mix of materials and more feminine style that are great paired with jeans or a skirt is the belted cardigan. American Eagle’s version comes in five different colors, made of cotton (so no itch factor), and is under 50 dollars.
The Gap also has a few versions of this same style, including a longer cable knit car coat. Beware though, this style is more expensive and will not look great on shorter ladies. Not into the sweater coat, but you like the belted-style? The Gap also makes a shorter cable knit cardigan that is double-breasted with a belt closure. It only comes in ivory, but it’s only 40 dollars
When it comes to sweaters, most looks never go out of style, such as cardigans and crewnecks. Crewnecks go great with trousers, jeans, skirts, etc. This season, Old Navy is selling this staple in a variety of colors for only $24.50 dollars Their version of this classic has knit-cables, a flattering scoop neck, rib-knit cuffs and hem to finish the look.
Another trend that has come back into style for this winter is the turtleneck. This is not your Grandma’s turtleneck, though. Express is selling a three-quarter sleeve turtleneck that comes in a variety of colors and The Gap is showing a turtleneck dress. The turtleneck is also being used with sleeveless wool dresses over them. It’s an updated and more mature way of doing the scholarly look.
With all of these tops, one can’t forget about bottoms. Last season, there was an uprising of skinny leg jeans, and although this cut is still fashionable, the new winter look is calling for a wider pant leg. Also, the distressed look is out and jeans are coming in darker washes and with fewer holes.
For those with a lighter purse, check out Old Navy’s large variety of fits and cuts. If it’s the skinny leg style that’s in demand, (they are still great for tucking into boots) then the Women’s Lowest Skinny Jean – ‘The Diva’ Jean is something to look into. They come in two different washes, a variety of sizes, and short and long cuts and are only 25 dollars
Although many try to convince themselves that sandals in December are still okay, they are not the smartest choice. A nice alternative is the ballet flat or the clog. The Gap has a scrunched bow tie flat in black, metallic gold, and bronze metallic.
Unfortunately, Plymouth tends to get many inches and sometimes feet of snow and ice in the winter months. The most popular shoe of late has been the boot. The Ugg boot has inspired many a company to create a warm, weatherproof boot that can be worn throughout the winter.
American Eagle has two versions of this comfy boot, the AE Sherpa Boot and the AE Sweater Boot. Both are meant to be worn with bare feet and both look cute with jeans, tights, and leggings.
As the weather cools down, it’s time to heat up the cars and head to the store or even better- shop online. Shopping at retail stores may not be the same as Versace and Armani, but your wallets will certainly be thanking you. Even on a small budget, there is no reason not to look like you stepped off the runway.