Mix Classic with Bold, Warm with Cold

By Guest Blogger, Dorothy Munholland

While the weather tries to make up it’s mind this season, I’ve decided to put my foot down and get serious about spring. The winter boots have officially been put away and even though snow and sleet have both been on the menu in the past few weeks, I am no longer willing to wear a hat or gloves to class. Still, the inconsistent weather makes being prepared for all temperatures a must. Too often I’ve found myself wandering campus wishing I had just one more or just one less piece of clothing to battle the elements. With that in mind, it has become necessary to get creative with layering. I’ve been keeping my eye out for students who manage to stay practical while looking chic.

I recently spotted this fashionista on a day of fluctuating temperatures. She avoided the cool lake effect breezes with a springy floral scarf and classic denim jacket. A wardrobe staple that again made an appearance on the Spring 2011 runways, denim and jean fabrics are popular every year, making this denim jacket an excellent piece to keep season after season. The look can be softened with a feminine scarf like this one from Urban Outfitters.

In case she found herself heating up in the sun, this stylish student wore a fun but not-too-revealing black tube dress under her jacket—a look that could easily be taken from day to night with a pair of funky wedges or a brightly colored clutch. That being said, our fashionista hit the nail on the head with a pair of $7 neon orange flats from vintage store ReThreads, my favorite piece in this outfit. Check out MadiScott’s lookbook for a glimpse at just how popular orange hues are this season. If you aren’t ready to make such a bold statement with your shoes, consider picking polish like OPI’s new “Y’all Come Back Ya Hear” shade from the Texas Collection.

Whether you’re headed to study with your Longchamp Le Pliage and notebooks in tow or meeting friends for after class drinks, try to remember that unpredictable weather doesn’t mean reverting back to your winter sweats. With a classic denim jacket and carefully placed accents, it’s possible to stay comfortable while stepping out in style this spring.