Elizabeth Dodman '22 ~ October 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a variety of challenges to people across the world. Here at school, we can take a minor challenge head on: staying warm in school with the windows open 24/7.
Is anyone else already tired of freezing out of every class this year? I certainly am. Of course, there is always the option of wearing a winter coat or hat around school to keep warm, but who wants to walk around in a bulky parka all day while also having to juggle books and bags? Especially with the snow coming, I would not want to be sitting at my desk in a soaking wet coat just waiting for some water to drop on my test and smear the ink. In addition, if you like fashion, wouldn’t wearing a coat all day defeat the purpose of wearing a cute outfit because no one would see it anyway?
The solution is simpler than you may think. Here are eight easy ways to stay warm this winter, while also upholding a fashionable look.
Layers
Layers will be your best friend in the winter, and they are an easy way to keep warm. Try wearing a long-sleeved shirt under a sweatshirt or sweater, or a long-sleeved tee with a cardigan as opposed to short sleeves. Remember, tight clothes trap in the warmth so make sure whatever you decide to wear underneath a thick layer is something form-fitting.
Blanket Wraps / Scarves
Another fun way to keep yourself warm is wearing a fashion scarf or blanket scarf around school. You can style scarves in different ways, so often if you wear a larger blanket scarf with a long-sleeved top or sweater and you get cold, you can easily take the scarf off and wrap it around yourself. Try styling a scarf or wrap as part of your outfit!
Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks provide extra warmth by covering your neck from the cold. Try swapping out a regular long-sleeved shirt for a turtleneck top, or replace a regular sweater with an oversized turtleneck. Remember, not all turtlenecks are itchy and annoying-- wool is one of the warmest, but ribbed cotton and chenille are other cozy options out there.
Jackets
As opposed to a winter coat, try out a fashion jacket. A sherpa, faux-fur, suede, fleece-lined, corduroy, or down jacket can provide an extra layer of warmth over a thick sweater, or on a warmer day, a long-sleeved tee. Plus, jackets can be a great accent to any outfit!
Sweater and Sweatshirt Dresses
Consider wearing a sweater or sweatshirt dress as a quick and easy way to stay warm. These will keep you warmer than a cotton t-shirt dress, and you can pair them with a jacket and/or tights to keep you extra comfortable.
Knee-High Boots
A super easy way to cover your legs while wearing a skirt or dress is to don a pair of tall boots. Not feeling the dress pants? Try out a pair of riding or fashion boots! You might even be able to find a pair with fur inside to keep your legs and feet extra toasty.
Tights
Don’t love wearing leggings under skirts? Try out some tights! Tights can make any outfit look cute and fashionable while also keeping your legs warm. They come in all different materials and colors, and some are thermal or fleece-lined for a warm and put-together look. You could even wear a thinner pair under dress pants if necessary.
High Socks
Getting cold feet? Try a pair of high socks! They can be knee highs, crew socks, or any other sock style that covers your ankles. Remember, fleece and cashmere are the warmest, but there are a variety of other materials out there, too. They come in a variety of patterns, and they are easy to find.
That’s it-- eight easy fixes to ditch the winter coat, look fashionable, and keep warm at school this winter! You can try styling new looks with any of these strategies from things you already have in your closet. If you are looking for some new pieces, places such as Target, Forever 21, Shein, Nordstrom Rack, and more offer a variety of affordable options. All it takes is a little extra step to look cute and combat the cold!
Title Photo: Ava Steiner
Article Photos: Elizabeth Dodman