By: Urja Vasani
As the vibrant fall trees on The Oval shed their leaves and winter approaches, many students—especially those from out of state—may find themselves wondering how to upgrade their wardrobe for the colder months. Whether it’s on or off campus, balancing warmth and fashion can be a challenge, but it’s possible, especially when we draw inspiration from shows like “Gossip Girl.”
Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen both have many iconic winter looks throughout the show, but their most notable ensembles always have some variation of trench coats, tights, and scarves as the main focus. Factoring in current trendiness, affordability, and practicality, these looks seem to be the most attainable for college students.
Harper’s Bazaar has named this outfit one of Serena’s “72 Best Looks.” For students seeking inspiration on what to wear to off-campus events in Columbus—like The Nutcracker or other holiday celebrations—this look provides essential wardrobe staples that can be mixed and matched with other pieces. The black leather boots, knit scarf, and trench coat are versatile items that can elevate a casual winter outfit while keeping you warm.
Stores like Target, Walmart, and Macy’s offer a variety of options at student-friendly prices, making it easy to replicate this look on a budget. For those who don’t have access to transportation, small businesses and boutiques near campus often offer the option to use BuckID debit to purchase their items. Flower Child, Pitaya, Artisan De Luxe, Ladybird, and Vamp Official are all within walking distance from campus but may not be as affordable as major retailers.
Similarly, Blair Waldorf’s winter wardrobe carries many of the same key components but with an added touch of her signature preppy elegance. Tights, a staple in Blair’s outfits, have made a significant comeback in fall and winter fashion over the past few years. Colored and lace-patterned tights in particular have gained popularity currently, offering a fun and fashionable way to add personality to your outfit.
One concern with tights, however, is staying warm as they are often thin. The solution to this is fleece-lined tights. They provide an extra layer of insulation without compromising style. Amazon has affordable options, such as this pair from Tyusatu, while other retailers offer similar alternatives. Tights can be styled under dresses, skirts, or layered beneath colored or lace-patterned options for extra warmth, as seen in the photo above. These small additions bring a polished yet practical touch to your winter wardrobe.
While some of these outfits may seem over the top, many of the pieces mentioned are versatile investments when broken down. Fleece-lined tights and trench coats can double as business professional attire for interviews or career fairs, offering both warmth and sophistication. Similarly, scarves are a timeless accessory that can be styled with anything, from casual class outfits to elevating a more formal look.
The next time you head off campus for coffee or explore shops and restaurants in the Short North, use Gossip Girl as your style guide!