It’s only two months into 2026 and New York City has already received record-breaking snow totals.
Strong weather conditions like these make it tough for the average person to find warm, comfortable and fashionable clothing.
Despite these challenges, both the internet and Johnnies have come up with several ways to keep you warm and trendy this winter.
Layers, Layers, Layers
The most common thing you’ll probably hear when dressing for the winter is how important it is to wear layers. Not only are you guaranteed to stay warm, but in situations where you don’t know how strong the heat is indoors, you can always remove layers once inside.
Sophomore Mekhi Walker mentioned that he always has at least 3 layers on whenever he goes out. “Usually an undershirt, a hoodie/sweater and a coat over everything. Or a button up with a sweater over it. Either keep you comfortable and warm wherever you go.”
In a similar vein, sophomore Olivia Nedrick suggested that “Wearing fleece tights under skirts or even a pair of regular leggings under jeans or sweatpants can keep your legs warm.”
These tips allow you to continue wearing some of your spring and summer pieces even in the dead of winter.
The Importance of Materials
While there are several scientific factors that are used to help determine which is the best material to wear during the winter — like thermal insulation levels and durability — it is generally easier to take note of which materials to avoid.
Suede and leather may look very nice, but can suffer permanent or expensive damage in the rain or snow; therefore, it’s a better idea to keep those types of fabrics indoors.
Instead, you should focus on water resistant materials like nylon for your outer layer, and insulating materials like wool for your inner layers to ensure that you will still be able to express yourself the way you want and that none of your clothing gets damaged.
“Knitted wear and fur are my go-tos when I know I need to stay warm…. Besides materials, knowing how to methodically layer is the key to staying warm without looking bulky,” said junior Raisa Hasan.
Why the Color of Your Clothing Matters
You may have been told to not wear dark colors in the summer because they absorb more UV rays; however, this makes them perfect for the winter.
When asked about the colors he prefers to wear during the winter, Walker spoke about darker clothing and how “they especially pop out when there’s snow.” Besides being able to stand out against a white background, dark clothing can also help conceal the stains and dirt you might encounter this snowy season.
Additionally, the color of your clothing gives you another way to express yourself when your other options are limited.
When asked about her favorite colors to wear throughout the season, Nedrick said “…I love neutral tones for the winter. But also a hint of dark red…as well. Red and brown are two combos that go very well together.”
Similarly, Hasan responded by saying “…when I think winter, navy blues and mahogany or a nice deep magenta come to mind.”
Utilizing Accessories
When asked about what she believes is the key to staying warm this winter, Hasan said “Do not neglect your hands or head. A few minutes with uncovered hands in this type of cold will feel like frostbite. And as someone who honestly doesn’t bundle up enough, I realized in this recent winter storm how much of a difference wrapping a scarf makes; not just around the neck— over the head.”
It’s important to take advantage of winter accessories like gloves, earmuffs, leg warmers, scarves and hats.
While accessories like gloves and mittens can help protect you from frigid temperatures, they can also elevate any winter outfit.
And for those of you who aren’t the biggest fans of hats, there are several tutorials online that show how to wrap a scarf and still cover your head just as Hasan mentioned.
While winter can be a difficult season to get through, looking fashionable while staying warm can make the winter chills more bearable.
