Author: Maggie V.
While it may be the end of January, for many of us there are still three long months of winter left. Yes, the days of gloomy skies, freak snow storms, and pasty skin are not over yet, but there is some good news. This gloomy time of year happens to be the perfect for some bargain shopping. Always ahead of schedule, our favorite designers and stores are slowly beginning to mark down their winter items to make room for spring arrivals. As twenty somethings, it’s our duty to pounce upon these marked down items and stock up on winter clothing—hey, we’re just helping clean house.
In an effort to guide your shopping rampage trip, we’ve put together a collection of winter wardrobe essentials. These clothing items and accessories are classic pieces that can be worn for the remainder of this winter and then tucked away for many winters to come. So put down the bottle of sunless tanner (we’re all pale, give it up), get yourself a cup of hot chocolate, and keep reading.
Green Cords | Skinny Jeans | Yellow Denim | Dark Wash Skinnies | Red Cords
You can’t go wrong with skinny jeans. Stuff ‘em in boots for a simple everyday look, or wear them with a pair of heels for a night-out. They’re my go-to pant, and now is the perfect time to snatch high-quality “skinnies” without the designer price tag.
Colored corduroy and denim are another emerging trend this year and if you stick to earthy hues like rust, forest green, faded blue, or muted violet, you’ll be able to wear them again next year.
V Neck Sweater | Black Blouse | Oversized Sweater | Flowy Blouse | Boat Neck Sweater
I love sweaters. There I said it. I have a gross amount of sweater-age and fully intend to continue growing my collection this year. They are the simplest solution to a morning spent staring into the depths of your closet pondering what to wear. Since cashmere and really fine knits are usually out of my entry-level-job-budget, now is a great time to buy those pieces.
Sheer blouses became uber popular this winter and I think the functionality of the top will make them popular for years to come. Pair a sheer blouse with a camisole for work or dinner with the parents, then ditch the cami for a slightly sexy going-out top. Simple.
Loop Scarf | Pea Coat | Leather Gloves | Trench Coat | Wool Scarf
News flash: It’s cold outside. You can’t get away with a light jacket anymore so treat yourself to a nice wool pea coat or classic trench coat. For this staple piece, basic black or timeless colors like red, military green, or camel is best.
Accessorize with printed scarves and rich pashminas to add color and variety to your outfit. There’s nothing like a good pair of leather gloves to take your ensemble to a whole new level of classiness. Plus, they keep your hands warm—it’s a win-win.
Long Sleeved LBD | Leather Jacket | Fringe LBD | Blazer
Black never goes out of style so don’t for a second think that you can have too much. Every girl needs (yes, I said “needs”) a little black dress, or two. Look for a versatile LBD that can be transitioned from work appropriate to bar crawl-able with the help of accessories. I like form fitting numbers that can be dressed up with tights or worn out with boots or heels.
If you’ve ever gotten all dressed up and then realized you didn’t have the right jacket or sweater, this next wardrobe tip is for you. Get your hands on a black leather jacket and a black blazer. Throw on either piece over almost any outfit and you’re good to go. Save yourself hours of “I have nothing to wear” stress and just trust me on this one.
Shoulder Bag | Aviators | Round Sunglasses | Yellow Cat Eyes | Animal Print Clutch | Orange Bag | Wayfarers | Oversized Aviators | Cat Eye Sunglasses | Envelope Clutch
Complete your look with the perfect accessories. Color blocking was all over the runways this year so add a few bright hues to your closet in the form of fun colored bags. Print is in! Add some to your wardrobe with snakeskin clutches. A great handbag or clutch can become the main attraction when paired with a neutral colored outfit or all-black ensemble.
Finally, sunglasses are necessary—I typically have at least one pair with me at all times. Got a cold? Had too much fun watching football on Sunday night? Throw on a pair of sunglasses. Retro styles are oh-so-popular right now so get a pair of cat eye shades, round sunnies, or classic aviators.
Now, get a good night’s sleep, hydrate, and don’t forget to stretch before you sprint to the sale rack. Happy bargain shopping!
