As UW-Madison students, we all understand the dilemma that the winter season poses for dressing fashionably. No matter what we are wearing to combat the cold, we feel oversized and over bundled. While thick, puffy jackets are useful in keeping us Wisconsinites warm, they also have a tendency to hide the fact that there is actually a human under all of those layers. Unfortunately, this fashion choice is often unavoidable.
This is one of my major issues with the treacherous Madison winters: how to dress well without getting frostbite. For those of you who don't want to resort to snow pants, down jackets, snow boots and ski masks, there is hope yet. Here are some tips to stay toasty while looking trendy.
First—and most obviously—find the perfect coat. Whether you are looking for new or getting tired of the old, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Remember: a really great coat does not cover up an outfit; it transforms an outfit. If you want to keep it simple and classic there are a lot of great fitted wool pea coats on the market now. To add your own unique touch, switch up the color; think bright red, emerald green, or jewel tone blue. Another option is the camel fur coat with a slightly more classy and upscale feel, for those of you who don't mind the extra bulk.
Whatever you do, keep two things in mind. First, make sure the coat fits well. There's already too many people wandering around campus in shapeless coats that resemble sleeping bags. Second, make sure your coat doesn't look cheap—even if it is. I'm not in any way suggesting you splurge on a Burberry coat this late in the season, but there are simple tricks to making a cheap coat look new. First, change the buttons. You can go to any Hobby Lobby or jewelry store and purchase a new set, replacing the old plastic and metal ones. Second, get it cleaned—especially if it's black. If you aren't into upkeep, vintage or used coats are also a great option, and scrounging around for sales is always a good way to save too. Stores like Gap and Urban Outfitters are having amazing winter sales on all of their winter wear.
Next, the boot. All of us know how downright awful soaking and freezing feet feel. No matter how much we try to avoid it, UW-Madison students absolutely need a good pair of boots. Skip the giant Eskimo boots and go for something that combines aesthetics and functionality, such as a sturdy high-knee or combat boot. If you are looking into canvas, leather, or suede, spray your boots with water repellant spray so that you can walk through the slush without a problem. Fabric and leather sprays are cheap, easy to use and they keep your boots looking new for a long time. Also, don't forget socks. Possibly more than one pair, and unless you have a death wish for your toes, skip the thin cotton athletic socks for a nice wool pair. Think Smartwool. Layer these over silk socks and your feet will be warm beyond belief. For those really slushy days, Hunter rain boots and leg warmers are also a great option.
One thing that never ceases to surprise me is how many people neglect their winter accessories. What ever happened to hats and scarves? These accessories can amp up both the warmth and look of an outfit. A nice beret or messenger style hat and a cozy circle or knit scarf will have you looking très chic.
Lastly, for those of you who are daring enough to wear dresses, do it intelligently. Wear multiple pairs of tights or sweater tights. And what I was saying earlier about leg warmers, that still holds true even when tights are involved. Having your leg warmers peak out over your boots provides a great cozy, yet fashionable look. A big, wintery cardigan layered over your dress adds even more flash to this look. Throw on a warm scarf, hat, your killer coat and you're good to go!
