Following a series of recent cold spells putting a damper on the University of Maryland, winter's reign has officially declared its rule on College Park. With the temperature seemingly diving lower each day, it can be difficult to find that motivation you once had to formulate an outfit that reflects seasonal fashion and keeps you warm.
As the air grows crisp and the days lessens in length, the grueling winter becomes a deterrent of fashion. Suddenly, walking to class and getting out of bed seem like unruly tasks. While sweatshirts and sweatpants are undeniably calling our names, there is one clothing item that can make this year different: jackets! Explore the possibilities of this adaptable outerwear item and transform your winter wardrobe while embracing winter's chill in fashion.
The Puffer A more recent trend, the puffer is undeniably an essential. Warm. Stylish. Devised for comfort. The puffer jacket comes in an array of styles, each varying in look, warmth and design. Aritzia has been a trailblazer in the emergence of puffers and, although on the pricier side, with the average jacket ranging anywhere from around 200$ to 400$, their products remain unbeatable. A social media sensation, featured in countless TikToks and shown off by several prominent names in the fashion industry, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Lopez are just a few of the long list of celebrities showing off this iconic jacket. The Super Puff comes in a whopping 58 colors and is available in a mid, short, long and bomber design. Besides being absolutely adorable, the Super Puff doesn’t lack functionality. Engineered to withstand harsh conditions, this puffer is water repellent and wind resistant with its goose down filling makes it guaranteed to keep you protected on wintry days.
Need a more affordable option? Zara’s got you. At just 89.90$, the Faux Leather Puffer Jacket is almost a third of the price as the Super Puff and is close to identical in appearance. Available in a chic ecru and black leather, this jacket can spice up any outfit and is sure to turn heads this winter season.
Holliday Woodward, a freshman journalism major, said, “If you want tons of compliments on campus, and a way to stay warm throughout the winter, the puffer jacket is perfect for you.” Take Woodward's advice and make the puffer jacket the next addition to your closet.
The Parka While at times tempting, we can all admit that sometimes the puffer jacket doesn’t provide the warmth we need. If you're in search of a jacket to use as your cold weather armor this winter, the parka is the jacket for you. This jacket, although known for being heavy duty and specifically engineered for snow, has proven otherwise over the last decade. Arianna Karalis, a freshman chemistry major, will definitely be hopping on the growing parka trend.
“I love parkas because they are cute and keep you war” Karalis said. Lululemon has been a trailblazer in the recreation of the parka, it in seven different designs. The Sleet Street Long Jacket is designed for those on the move and taking winter on by storm. Its flexible, light material makes for a bulk free appearance and its syncable waste is flattering to the figure. This parka allows you to confidently enter winter's fury without fear.
With the emergence of their new FP Movement line, Free People has entered the jacket market. Unlike the sleek Lululemon design, FP Movement offers a relaxed, oversized look allowing for layering with ease. Grab Hot Tamale, one of the 4 offered colors, and show your University of Maryland pride! Whether you're headed out on a walk around campus or suiting up for a game day, this fashionable fleece-lined parka is perfect for any winter occasion.
The Trench Coat
Timeless. Classy. Versatile.The trench coat is that jacket that does it all, coming in an array of different looks from leather or patterned to silk and sustainable. The trench coat instantly transforms a winter outfit, giving a sleek, well kept look to anyone bold enough to try it out. Ciao Bella, a common boutique on the east coast has seen quite the rise in trendy coats.
In terms of the trench coat, Janice Brigugulio, co-owner of Ciao Bella, states that, “Honestly in the past, the trench was more of a spring coat and some would come with a thicker lining to be worn in the winter.”
That being said, this winter this jacket has seen quite the transformation. London Fog, known for their outerwear collection that brings together affordable prices and high quality, is certainly not lacking in their trench coat selection. With the goal of providing warmth and comfort while maintaining an effortless stylish appearance, the Women's Double-Breasted Trench Coat seems to do it all. For just under $170, grab your next favorite jacket equipped with a convenient removable hood, matching tie belt, and adorable cuffed sleeves. Leveling up your outfit or adding a stylish touch to a casual look, this item is what we all need in our closets this winter.
Looking to tone down the trench look? Perfect for throwing on before a chilly walk to class, ALO Yoga provides the perfect combination between fashionable, practical and undeniably cozy. Their Oversized Sherpa Trench is designed with an open front and a stylish full-length trench silhouette. Manufactured with plush Sherpa fabric and convenient pockets this jacket is designed for girls on the go, looking for a layer of warmth to trudge through that cold winter day. Available for purchase in Black, Camel, Ivory and the limited edition Dusty Pink, find the perfect color for you and instantly upgrade that winter wardrobe.
This winter, don't let the intimidating temperatures put a damper on your sense of style. Jackets are the key to winter fashion and the cherry on top to an outfit for each occasion. Top off your going-out outfit with a stylish cropped puffer, pull on that parka to bundle up for the next chilly game day and bring a new level of sophistication with a trendy trench coat. Within each of these three hot jacket trends are an array of options to explore and take control of your wardrobe.