Let’s be real, dressing for winter is difficult, especially when trying to maintain style and creativity. Freezing cold winters are an adjustment for many students in Rochester. As a central New York native, I have grown up in below-freezing temperatures, lake effect snow, and cold winds that feel like they’re piercing your skin. Because of this, I feel I have the credentials to advise on how to adequately dress for the winter. However, I won’t just list the same tips that come up in a Google search. This article will be your guide to Rochester winters, providing tried and true methods that still allow your style to shine brighter than your SAD lamp.
My number one piece of advice would be to invest in quality outerwear:
First things first, you need a coat. Winter newcomers tend to either cheap out or spend way too much on the trendy puffer. Both of those options will very likely not keep you warm enough and will not last four years. When shopping for a winter coat, you need to be asking yourself the following questions:
- What style of jacket will I wear the most? A parka or puffer? A wool trench? Maybe fur?
- What material is the jacket made of?
- (Depends on the style) Is the jacket insulated?
- 10 years from now, will I still wear this coat?
Pictured: Land’s End Women’s Squall Waterproof Insulated Parka
Pictured: Columbia Men’s Landroamer™ Puffer Jacket
Pictured: Quince 100% Merino Wool Shawl Collar Long Coat
When temperatures start going below 30, just wearing a coat isn’t going to cut it. To maintain warmth, layering is key. My biggest advice for this is to be conscious of the materials you are wearing. Cashmere and wool will keep you warmer than cotton, so I always suggest looking for sweaters and cardigans in those materials. You can easily find cashmere and wool layers at thrift stores for cheap. This is a much better alternative to buying new cashmere, which is extremely costly. Buying new also does not guarantee you will be getting 100% cashmere or wool (remember to check clothing tags for washing instructions and material breakdown!). Nowadays, many retailers are switching to polyester blends to save costs. This means you are paying more for lower quality. An authentic wool sweater will keep you warm and toasty and will last for decades.
Sweaters are a winter staple, but if I am being honest, I personally prefer not wearing one every day. In order to maintain warmth and personal style, I opt for creative layering. Thermal long sleeves are perfect for under a sweater, shirt, cardigan, dress, you name it. Two of my favorite thermals are the UNIQLO HEATTECH Cashmere Blend T-Shirt and the Intimissimi Boat Neck Modal Cashmere Ultralight Top. The second option is definitely on the pricier side but in my opinion is worth it. You can also find similar items while thrifting or on Depop.
The UNIQLO HEATTECH Shirt side-by-side with the Intissimi Boat Neck Shirt.
When dressing for winter, people often forget about their lower body. Many of us throw on a pair of jeans and walk out the door. Walking to campus, your arms and chest might be warm, but your legs are freezing. Don’t worry, I’m not going to suggest you wear snow pants every day, but I will show you the power of tights. Any type of tights or stockings makes an easier layer under any kind of pants, skirt, or dress. If it is really cold, you can switch to thicker cotton/wool tights or even a pair of leggings. I prefer regular tights because they aren’t bulky and I can seamlessly put my pants on over them. If you want to wear a skirt or a dress you can invest in some insulated tights. UNIQLO has tights and leggings in their HEATTECH line. For more options, this Harper’s Bazaar article offers a great list of insulated tights.
An image of the HEATTECH leggings.
Accessorizing is the best way to look stylish during the winter. Oftentimes, it is also a necessity for warmth. I see students with exposed hands, ears, and necks too many times during the day. Our head and hands store a lot of body heat, so when left exposed, that heat escapes, causing chills and potentially frostbite. Keeping these areas exposed also increases the chances of getting sick. I know I may sound like your mom, but bundling up can still be cute. You can invest in statement gloves, mittens, and hats; I recommend looking at small businesses on Etsy or at flea markets that hand-knit or crochet items. To keep your head warm without messing up your hair, you can also opt for ear muffs or a headband. I absolutely love the UGG earmuffs, so much so that I have them in every color. Scarves can also be a quintessential piece of any winter outfit. Most of the scarves I have are thrifted or stolen from my dad (but just don’t tell him). They’re also a multipurpose accessory that can warm your neck, face, and head, and bring a pop of color into any outfit.
Winter doesn’t have to be all gray and boring. Maintain your style and warmth by investing in a quality coat, strategically layering, and playing with fun accessories. I hope this guide helps to keep you a tad warmer this winter season!
