Slope Media Group

Style on the Slope: A Guide to Fashion at Cornell

After relentless days spent trekking across campus clad in a layer of down of astronaut-suit proportions and a clunky pair of snow boots, it’s easy to feel unstylish and dowdy. Welcome to Cornell University in winter, where students move the bright, colorful t-shirts and flip-flops of summer to the back of their closets come January. The temperature hovers around zero, spirits plummet, and fashion seems like a low priority compared to staying protected from the brutal Ithaca cold. Fortunately, dressing well doesn’t always have to come second to staying cozy. Adding a few small touches of style to an ordinary outfit can make all the difference—and you can keep your puffy jacket on while you do it! These easy-to-execute winter trends will bring a little piece of spring to any drab ensemble and brighten up even the dullest of winter days.

Boots with some character:

Ithaca’s combination of snow, rain, and salt can do a number on even the toughest pair of shoes. Many Cornell students mistakenly believe that snow or rain boots are their only winter footwear option: in fact, waterproofing and inexpensive salt-stain remover open up a plethora of other shoe options. While suede can suffer staining and water damage, leather boots can be easily cleaned and come in a variety of new silhouettes and lengths that stand out in a crowd. While plain brown or black leather mid-calf styles remain an old standby, this season witnessed the classic receiving updates in the form of bohemian lace-up ties, fringe and tassels, and a new over-the-knee length. Like their predecessors, these new boots still match with everything and keep your feet far away from pesky snow, but look extra of-the-moment and chic while doing so!

Chunky knits:

These winter staples invaded stores this winter, taking the form of gloves, scarves, earmuffs, and sweaters. Thick knits not only keep cold bodies warm but also add some volume and texture to winterwear looks without the bulk of too many layers. Fiber Science and Apparel Design major (and burgeoning fashionista) Justine Lee (2014) cites oversized sweaters and circle scarves in chunky knits as “some of [her] favorite winter looks,” adding “they’re comfortable, warm, and make for a laid-back yet sophisticated style.” Stick to neutrals like camel, grey, and cream to keep them from looking grandmotherish.

Statement-making tights:

No matter how many choices are out there, it’s easy to get sick of the pants-and-boots combination and start craving the dresses and skirts of warmer days past. Never fear: these knee-barers aren’t off limits if paired with tights. No longer confined to basic black, tights now come in a variety of patterns and textures—like pretty lace—as well as rich hues that offset the typically dark shades of other winter clothing. As Lee comments, “patterned tights in the winter work great [since] they feminize your look, especially when you’re wearing a big winter coat that might not be the most flattering.” Add a pair on under a simple shift for day or a tank dress for night.