Fashion is taking a new turn for the winter season.
Warm coats and colorful gloves are replacing frayed shorts and graphic t-shirts. Fashionable expression is everywhere at the University, from the Union to walking down the halls. From boots to headscarves, everyone is making a statement.
“There aren’t really too many college fashion trends, but there have been some new, fresh fabrics and clothing popping up on campus,” said Mariana Mitova, apparel merchandising and product development professor at the University. “Leather trim on everything from jeans to jackets is big for students, along with animal print for the women. Animal print is a staple that can easily be dressed up or down.”
Freshman Lynn Gamblin is more comfortable just sticking to the basics.
“I like to be warm and comfortable in the winter, especially since Bowling Green is essentially Antarctica,” Gamblin said. “Big hoodies are a must for me, and thick sweats are also. I’m not too concerned with the fashion side. I do love accessories, though.”
Accessories are important too, as they can spruce up a bland outfit and make it pop.
“Gold is fairly popular,” Mitova said. “The return of gold comes from the big fashion magazines, such as Vogue, Instyle and the like. I see students with gold chains … gold adds a luxe touch to any outfit and can be expensive or inexpensive.”
Sophomore Gregory Harrison is an avid lover of infinity scarves.
“I love my infinity scarves. Infinity scarves are most definitely the biggest trend on campus,” Harrison said. “Surprisingly, long bubble coats are making a comeback. Rugged boots are in as well.”
When choosing what to wear on a daily basis in winter, Mitova says that being comfortable is students’ number one priority.
“Above anything, students want to be warm and comfortable,” Mitova said. “Fashion is important also, but it has to be packaged in a way that it is comfortable for students. It gets incredibly cold in Bowling Green, so most of my students show their fashion abilities through layers, like track jackets, scarves, blazers over hoodies and also North Face and Columbia.”
Harrison said he thinks it is important to stay fashionable during the cold months.
“My everyday style is college chic. I love my classic skinny jeans, infinity scarves, long thick sweaters and fingerless gloves so I can text. You can be fashionable and still warm,” Harrison said.
Gamblin is a sweater and boots girl who loves different boot styles.
“I do love boots, especially furry ones,” Gamblin said. “I see a lot of girls on campus with Uggs.”
Ugg boots are still going strong on campus due to their warmth, style and comfort.
“Ugg boots have evolved over the years,” Mitova said. “The company has produced so many new styles to choose from, like glitter covered ones and black ones with bows on the back. Ask any girl on campus— they may be expensive, but they are essential.”
Harrison said the fashionable boots will never go out of style.
“Ugg boots still reign supreme,” Harrison said. “Always and forever. I don’t see them ever leaving the fashion scene; they’re a classic.”