Let’s face it — when you have to walk 10 minutes to your 9 a.m. class in the frozen tundra also known as Missouri, the last thing on your mind is how stylish you look. For some people, managing to put on matching gloves and a hat is a fashion feat in and of itself.
The icy sidewalks on campus might not be runways, but the colder weather shouldn’t be an excuse to stop making an effort with your wardrobe. Winter is all about the outerwear, and finding a fashionable coat can be the perfect way to look effortlessly stylish this season. Here are some of this year’s coat trends to help you cozy up your closet.
**Animal print coats**
Skip the fur, but look just as fierce in an animal print coat. From leopard spots to zebra stripes, animal prints work great for a few reasons. Because of their neutral colors, you can wear them with virtually any color of scarves, gloves and other winter accessories. They also stand out from the crowd without being overly flashy.
**Belted coats**
Belted coats are one of the easiest ways to enhance your figure. By cinching at the waistline, they accentuate your curves and give the appearance of a smaller midsection—so much more flattering than those bulky puffer coats! Plenty of coats come with their own matching self-tie belt, but try taking a fashion risk, like pairing a classic camel trench coat with a bright turquoise belt instead.
**Cape coats**
These days it seems like you can’t walk into a store without seeing cape coats. The swing style is making a major comeback this winter, both in longer versions and in shorter caplets. These posh ponchos can be thrown on over anything and offer more comfort than most outerwear. Make sure you take your height and silhouette into account so you don’t end up getting swallowed by the fabric.
**Colorful coats**
In a sea of black and gray North Face jackets, you’re sure to stand out by wearing a brightly colored coat instead. Hues like cobalt blue, mustard yellow and scarlet red are all in this season. Just remember to keep the bottom half of your outfit a more neutral color to avoid looking like a bag of Skittles.
**Military coats**
Military coats never seem to go out of style. And with so many types, it’s easy to see why. From double-breasted, button-front pea coats to nautical toggle coats, the little details will make you look classically chic as you trudge through the snow.