The weather that Mother Nature has been gracing us with seems to be the only thing more unpredictable than scoring a prime parking spot in the zoo, better known as the commuter lot.
Scarves, hats, gloves, and heavy puffer coats are considered typical winter fashion; however, the recent indecisive weather pattern has made wearing a t-shirt to class in February the norm on campus.
The Washington Post reported that many parts of the central and eastern United States have been experiencing temperatures 20 to 30 degrees warmer than average. The unusually warm weather has transformed winter fashion, causing students and faculty to adapt to the random changes to the best of their ability.
“I’ve noticed my students coming to class dressed in layers,” said communication professor Shannon Hokanson. Hokanson, who takes an interest in fashion, sees the relatively warmer weather as a positive opportunity.
“Ponchos are also very popular among my students,” explained Hokanson. Entering the world of high fashion this fall season, ponchos have made a smooth transition into the winter season considering the current weather pattern.
Ponchos are available in knits, sweaters, or coats. These three styles can be seen often on campus, particularly due to the often changing weather. The ability to incorporate layering without sacrificing personal style makes this fashion style ideal.
“I’m going to have to get myself one of those,” said Hokanson.
Unfortunately for men, ponchos are not available in their size. However, a comparable male option is sticking with a classic zip-up and t-shirt look. Though nothing new, this style is ideal in order to keep up with cold mornings and beautiful, warm afternoon weather.
Another way, according to Hokanson, to take advantage of the warmer weather is being able to expand one’s daily shoe selection.
“Wearing open-toe high heels with stockings are perfect for this weather,” said Hokanson enthusiastically. Hokanson has also noticed the shoe trend spreading among faculty on campus.
Though the abnormally warm weather during the winter season has spoiled us and seemed to get a majority of people more impatient for the upcoming spring season, do not be too naïve. Just as you thought it was safe to put away the winter essentials and store them away in the attic until next year, think again.
On February 2, Groundhog Phil revealed that we will be experiencing an additional six weeks of winter as he crawled out of his hole and showed his shadow in Punxsutawney, PA. It is ironic to say “another six weeks of winter,” when in reality Mother Nature has barely graced us with any true sense of winter at all.
Angela Rosa, President of Monmouth University Snowriders club, is ecstatic for an additional six weeks of winter. “I hope the prediction is accurate,” said Rosa.
“I’ve been trying to plan another trip to Vermont, but the constant changing of the weather is making it impossible. The rapidly changing weather makes any trip to the mountains a complete waste of money and time riding on snow that is not worth it,” explained the 22-year-old senior.
“Speaking on behalf of all winter sport enthusiasts, there is nothing better than waking up to snow, the feeling is indescribable,” explained Rosa. “I just want to grab my gear and go.”
Whether Phil the groundhog’s prediction will be accurate or not, time will only tell. However, there is one accessory in particular that both men and women can have in order to face nearly any type of weather.
“One fashion accessory I always have on me no matter what the temperature,” said Rosa reaching for her black Oakley Frogskins. “My shades.”
PHOTO COURTESY of bagsandshoes.tk
