As students board their flights back to Eugene after the peaceful holiday season, some may be searching for some winter term outfit ideas. As the days get lighter for longer (finally!) and the rainy season continues, students might be looking for some essentials as the first days of classes begin. No matter your preferred style, we’ve got you covered with a few tips and tricks.
Long coats
Long coats are big this year. What’s more convenient than a coat that keeps you warm, head to toe, during a brutally cold Eugene winter? They’ve been a big trend this year, with people sporting them with soft sweaters and classic denim underneath. For these, opt for a warm neutral like brown or black to match pretty much anything. Bonus points if you can find one that’s waterproof, for the rain of course.
Fleece tights
When it comes time to put away your favorite miniskirts and trade them for long pants on a night out, you might be hesitant. Some of your favorite pieces are probably intended for warm weather, but that doesn’t mean you can’t extend their lifespan well into the winter.
Fleece-lined tights are a great hack for this. They look like sheer, black tights (which go with pretty much anything), but are warm and cozy on the inside, perfect for heading to classes in the freezing weather. Additionally, if your heating isn’t great or you’re just a bit too cold, these serve as a perfect bottom layer underneath pants.
Chunky scarves
As 2025 came to a close on campus, I noticed an accessory that was quite popular: chunky long scarves. Styled either regularly or as a hood, a scarf like these ones can provide a nice pop of color to an otherwise neutral winter outfit. Pair these with a unique pair of gloves or earmuffs that you love, and you’ve got a stylish way to spice up your fit. I don’t expect these to be going away anytime soon.
Boots
The buzz around Frye boots and other brands alike has been going since the start of the school year, and I think it should continue well into 2026. You
can never go wrong with a good pair of brown or black leather boots, especially for the colder, rainy days on campus. Having staple items like these in your closet is always a win, especially for those of us trying to consume and shop less in the new year. Pair these with high socks and/or legwarmers for a bit of extra flair.
Crochet accessories
What’s better than making your own clothes and accessories? If you’re looking to prioritize sustainability and pick up a new hobby, consider trying out crochet. With practice, you can learn to make your own scarves, hats, fingerless gloves and even sweaters.
There’s been a trend recently where people pick up old sweaters from thrift stores and deconstruct them. Using this method to recycle something old into something new is both good for the planet and fun.
At the end of the day, wearing what you love and trying to be environmentally conscious about your fashion picks is my biggest tip for dressing this winter. Fast fashion gets faster and faster every year, and you can never go wrong with picking some staple pieces that express your individuality. Bundle up, ducks!
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