As we embrace prime cozy weather, layering becomes essential for staying warm. Like most do, I’ve succumbed to pajama pants and hoodies, replacing proper outfits with comfortable loungewear. However, from knit scarves to oversized sweaters, students can experiment with various quirky, cozy styles. Below, I lay out my favorite trends of the season.
Dark winter shades have gained attention across social media and I’m ecstatic. Navy blue, forest green, and wine red are the perfect winter trifecta. When paired with neutrals such as grey, white, and of course black, the colors pop and elevate any basic outfit. A deep-toned top partnered with a greyscale bottom radiates elegance and minimalism. On the flip side, a neutral shirt with brighter pants gives an edgier vibe and just a little something extra.
Other fashion lovers have been enjoying lighter styles: “I love light colors and pastels for wintertime, such as baby pink and cream,” senior Gemma Kim Fernandez said. Light pink is definitely a winter color along with baby blue, especially when used as an accent to a big winter coat.
Browns have also been trending and are extremely versatile. From khaki to mushroom, there’s a huge variety of tones to play around with. A touch of brown in a belt, boots, or bag transitions fall styles into winter ones gracefully. A controversial combo I am obsessed with is black and brown. When done correctly, the combination exemplifies the epitome of fall and winter fashion.
I absolutely adore chunky bracelets and watch stacks. They add a bold statement to any outfit while keeping it classy, making them perfect for an evening out or a casual brunch. This flexibility allows you to mix and match different pieces to create a unique look every time. The Oxbow Cerrillos stackable rings are my personal favorites for their elegance and simplicity. The mixed metal option can transition seamlessly from day to night and is a great addition to any jewelry collection.
Watches and bracelets have also been trending for a while, particularly during the holiday season and for fancier occasions. The blend of metals, textures, and styles allows for endless combinations that can be tailored to any event. The polished design of a skinny watch complements thinner bracelets without overwhelming the wrist, creating a delicate and sophisticated look. On the other hand, pairing it with chunky bracelets can provide an eye-catching contrast, adding depth and texture to your ensemble.
This season, bag trends are seeing a mix of functionality and style. Tiny yet mighty, mini bags have taken the fashion world by storm. They’re perfect for carrying essentials and add a cute, playful touch to any outfit. For those who need to carry more, oversized totes are making a comeback. They’re ideal for daily use and travel, combining practicality with a chic, relaxed look. Clean lines and structured shapes are all the rage, adding a polished and professional vibe to your wardrobe. These bags are great for work or any occasion where you want to look put-together.
The Coach Brooklyn and Lana shoulder bags are at the top of my Christmas list this year. The Brooklyn bag is perfect for everyday endeavors, offering enough space to carry all your essentials while looking effortless and chic. The Lana bag, on the other hand, is a go-to for more formal occasions. Its sleek design and quality leather add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Both bags are well crafted and their timeless designs ensure they’ll be worth the cost.
No winter wardrobe is complete without a pair of black leather boots, and the Steve Madden Smith ones are simply perfection. I’ve been seeing them all over my Instagram feed and they add a little edge to an outfit while maintaining the classic appeal of leather. Fashion magazines and websites such as Vogue and Glamour have reported that suede is especially popular this winter, but this isn’t practical. Suede is not waterproof and with how much rain we get in the Bay, there’s no point in risking such a purchase. Leather is a much more suitable material: “My favorite winter trend right now is leather jackets,” junior Olivia Park said.
Winter brings the best opportunities for blending comfort with style. From rich dark shades and playful pastels to the timeless appeal of black leather boots and brown tones, this season offers something for every fashionable individual. Statement jewelry adds the perfect finishing touch while stylish bags such as Coach’s provide functionality and flair. If trendy styles are out of your price range, thrift stores offer a variety of sustainable and vintage looks that cater to every budget. Embrace the layers, mix and match, and let your style shine through this cold winter. Stay warm!
