The holidays are vastly approaching, which means it's time to break out the winter coats, gloves, hats, and of course, the obvious UGG boots.  It's also about that time to figure out how you're going to stay fashionable while also trying to stay warm.  There is a way to look stylish when its ice cold outside and it doesn't take much time to do, if you know what you're doing, and what trends to follow.

Fashion has always been about accessories and when it comes to this winter's fashion, it really doesn't matter what you wear, as long as you have the right accessories to back it up.  Even the every day, casual, and slightly ruggish sweat suit can look fashionable if decorated with a scarf and a hat. 

For a mixture of both dark, and bright colored scarves and hats, try Express.com, where there is an assortment for just under $20.  Solid colored scarves are usually your safe bet; however, patterned scarves mixed with a pattern top can have that "so wrong it's right" kind of image.  Either way, Express has it all.

Christina Durfey, a senior at Central Michigan University who is majoring in accounting, says that scarves are "for sure" the most important fashion accessory during the winter. 

"I wear them everywhere, outside, at work, class..."

Just because winter is such a dreary, and blah season doesn't mean you have to dress that way.  Instead of the black ensemble that seems to take over every girl's closet during the winter, try dressing in brighter colors in an effort to make yourself stand out, and perhaps lighten your mood.  Even a fashion risk like bright orange or hot pink nail polish could keep you from falling into the background this season. 

The Mark Jacob's winter fashion show, presented during New York Fashion week, represents the perfect bright winter jackets that scream bold and unforgettable.  Chicstories.com shows the psychedelic colors, which range from bright orange to crazy purple. 

Although it's important to lighten up your wardrobe during this colorless season, make sure you don't overdo it.  Balance your every day outfits to make sure you don't resemble a colorful clown (unless, of course, you want to). 

A trend that seems to be taking over Central's campus lately is an Indian theme.  Boots with shredded fringed details have become increasingly popular by the day.  Hollister's Sunset Cliffs tan vest, along with the beaded beach belt, recognizes Native American culture in a fun and fabulous way.

A look that doesn't seem to be dying anytime soon is the plaid pattern.  Jackets, shirts, hats and vests are all in plaid design these days, giving that farmer-look a whole new recognition. 

Leather coats are also making a major comeback, and leather leggings seem to be coming around to the idea.  Without feeling like Fonzie from Happy Days, try pairing your leather jacket with a high wasted mini skirt instead of the usual blue jean.  Who wants to go to the bar or the club with a jacket on? The leather jacket can actually make your bar outfit look even more chic. 

Not everyone is a fan of the leather jacket, however.  Shukria Shawqi, a sophomore at Central who is majoring in Special Education could never picture herself wearing one.

"I think it's tacky for the most part, but some people can pull it off well", says Shawqi.  "I would personally never wear one though."

To browse more of the Indian-style clothes that Hollister offers, you can visit their website at Hollisterco.com.

Also, to look at the printed and solid-colored scarves, you can go to Express.com.

Photo by kpwerker

By Jenna Bishop

Major: Journalism

Minor: Communications

Hometown: Adrian

Year of Graduation: 2011