by Sara Fabian | photos by Blaine Ewig
Drink coffee. Put on another layer of dry clothes. Repeat. This is the formula to warm inside and out. When the temperature starts to reach “winter hibernation” phase, it’s most common for citizens of Olympia to drink excessive amounts of coffee, turn all the lights down and watch every movie and show Netflix has to offer. After all those beautiful summer and fall days it can be a difficult to transition into the eerie cold months ahead of us, but as the last gold leaf falls, we buck up and accept that it may be seven months before we see the sun again.
The phrase “c’est la vie” is French but its meaning in English, “that’s life”, “fuck it” or “oh well, shit happens” is something Pacific Northwesterners know too well. Olympia may be chilly and damp for months on end, but that’s no reason to go into fashion hibernation. People, we have the holidays, hot cocoa, and the greatest beacon of warmth; cozy sweaters. Have a sweater party paired with your favorite warm drinks! Make gingerbread houses and wear funny holiday sweaters!
Here are some tips on how to stay warm, chic, and take that c’est la vie to a whole new level:
1. Oversized Coats
The most practical winter accessory: the coat. This year, look for oversized, boxy coats that make a statement. Oversized coats can be casually paired with skinny jeans or tights and ankle boots, and can also add a great touch of drama to any outfit.
2. Gothic Dress
The gothic-inspired way of dress is a great way to add an edge to your wardrobe. Counter the Middle Ages (or junior high school “emo”) throwback with cozy accessories like a beanie or a chunky scarf. Make a statement in all black or pair the dress with neutral sweaters and jackets to streamline this theatrical look.
3. Velvet
Don’t let its sophistication intimidate you. This winter, velvet is an everyday must-have fabric. Everything is fair game when it comes to the season’s softest trend—skirts, dresses, jackets, shirts, scarves, you name it. Even velvet leisure suits have made appearances on the runway. On shirts and dresses, velvet can be cut to look uber-sexy or uber-tasteful—a low v-neck will vamp up the romantic look, while a high neckline will keep the fabric looking classic and mature.
4.Chambray (a.k.a. Jean) Button-ups
Chambray all day, everyday! PNW’ers love to wear denim on denim (on denim) so you need at least a few chambray shirts in your closet!
5. Oversized Sweaters
One of the most comfortable trends of the season is the oversized sweater. Whether it’s a large cable knit from Forever21 or one with a 1980s pattern from Value Village or Goodwill, these are a winter wardrobe staple. Try layering sweaters with collared shirts, or pair them with a pair of jeans or corduroy pants.
A Case For Sweaters.
Now I know what you’re thinking (or maybe I don’t, I’m not really making the argument that I’m clairvoyant here): “I like sweaters already!” But sweaters, like the other things we may take for granted in life, deserve more. And you know what? If you love your blazer, great news! You can still wear a sweater underneath your blazer, and you will still look cooler than you would otherwise. The next time you’re in a social setting, someone will most likely compliment your sweater, because they have nothing else to do, and be like, “Hey! That’s a really nice sweater!” or “Hey, you, nice sweater!” (Honestly, people say the weirdest things in social situations when they have nothing else to talk about. It is estimated that 73 percent of all cocktail party conversation is sweater-related.)
So, now that you’re into sweaters, go mix it up a little! This is a whole new world for you! Get excited! Maybe something with a nice pattern? Go crazy! C’est la vie and sweater up, everyone. It will make all the difference in the world. When it’s cold and gray outside, there’s nothing better than lazing around in a soft, warm sweater.
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