Fashion Guide: How to stay ‘cool’ as the weather gets cold

By Jenna Munswami

As the fall semester of this school year passes, so too do the seasons. We are well into autumn, with winter not far behind. Although last week’s temperatures fooled Rider students into thinking summer had returned, we must prepare for the cold weather. Here are some trend predictions and recommendations for the winter season.

A staple we all need to survive the New Jersey cold is a coat. Puffer jackets have had their moment for the past couple of years, but there are a number of other options. Parkas are a timeless coat style that is much warmer than a standard puffer jacket. Walking to and from classes while freezing is not a fun experience, especially when it gets dark in the middle of the day. Another option to stay cozy is a simple insulated down jacket. They have a similar style to the puffer jacket but better maintain body heat. 

Black is a timeless color, but why not opt for a coat in your favorite color? Variety in color, or even more neutral colors, would be nice to see. 

The bow trend has taken the fashion community by storm in recent years. A lot of them were pastel and dainty, and, even though that trend died down, I think there will be a resurgence with a different style of bow. Chunky ribbons are the perfect addition to any outfit as the holiday season draws near. Reds, blacks and golds could be fitting since they match fall and winter colors.

Beanies were so popular only a few years ago, but there seems to be less people wearing them around campus now. However, a comeback would be great for winter, as they are the perfect addition to a basic outfit. They are comfortable and compliment anyone’s appearance. More recently, we have seen lined beanies for sale for those with locs, braids and twists. With the way trend cycles seem to repeat faster and faster, I would not be surprised to see a resurgence of the classic beanie.

Corduroy pants could easily become a new trend for the season. The material is comfortable and the right thickness to stay warm while looking fashionable. Corduroys come in warm colors that are perfect for autumn. They can have darker colors, such as black, dark purple and wine red. These pants add an interesting texture to any outfit and can become a statement piece. They can elevate a look more than a normal pair of jeans. 

As for shoes, Ugg slippers and boots have completely dominated our generation, but no matter how comfortable and warm they are, those shoes will not survive the rain and snow without protection. Therefore, students should invest in a pair of Dr. Martens. To label any of these shoes as a mere trend would be doing a disservice. The classic Dr. Martens boots are a timeless, stylish shoe that lasts for years and handles precipitation well. There are also a variety of lined ones that are perfect for extra warmth.

In my time here, I have noticed numerous people with creative outfits and cool senses of style. I asked three students what their favorite colors and outfits are to wear for the upcoming seasons, and if they would like to see any of those be trendy or at least grow in popularity.

Cassie Rudolph, a junior game and interactive media design major who uses she/they pronouns, said, “I love kind of traditional autumnal tones: cranberry, auburn and olive.” They also said that denim is her fall staple. A good pair of denim jeans is perfect for fall and winter, and they look good with anything. 

Denise King, a senior contemporary theater practice and film and television major who uses they/them pronouns, said that they love to wear yellow and orange, flannels and layers and a white or black turtleneck. When asked if they would like to see those pieces become more popular, Denise responded that they wear things that “spark joy for me,” and everyone should feel comfortable wearing what their heart desires. I totally agree.

Junior communication studies major, Kyleigh Carpentieri said, “one of my favorite fall combos is definitely a sweater, a skirt, tights and boots. It’s classic.” She said it is super cute and anyone can wear it well, which is so true. I also love to wear these kinds of outfits. She also mentioned animal print coming back into style, which is fitting for the winter. I definitely agree that it can look really cool when styled right. 

I am so excited to see what other students are styling for the coming months and I hope everyone can create outfits that they feel confident in!

Jenna Munswami is a sophomore communications major