Switching it up

Nick+Lee%2C+junior+digital+technology+and+culture+major%2C+models+a+winter+vest+on+Colorado+Street%2C+Wednesday%2C+Nov.+20.

Nick Lee, junior digital technology and culture major, models a winter vest on Colorado Street, Wednesday, Nov. 20.

Lance Lijewski Evergreen Fashion columnist

 

North Face vests and their knock-off counterparts have taken over college campuses across the nation. Like the Black Death that overwhelmed Europe in the 16th century, the black vest is creating a fashion apocalypse that can be salvaged only through style.

The black vest isn’t really the issue. Its mainstream appeal and commonality is. Every vest is nearly identical in design. The cut, the fabric and the color are the same.

Everyone wears it in the same fashion. Women wear it with a pair of Ugg boots and a hoodie. Men wear it with some sneakers and a sweatshirt.

If your goal is to get lost in the crowd and drown in a sea of North Face vests, then by all means, do what everyone else is doing.

However, if your goal is to stand out and rise above the rest, here is what you need to do to resurrect your style.

1. Change the color

Black is far too common. Pick something lighter, brighter or more appealing to the eye. You don’t need to be flamboyant with bright purples and burning oranges, but trading up for a gray or crimson vest would add zest to your appearance and earn you brownie points for school spirit.

2.Layer and accessorize

You’re probably already doing this. A sweatshirt or hoodie sitting beneath the vest definitely qualifies. Try changing things up with a form-fitting, low-cut thermal or graphic T-shirt under a zip-up sweatshirt with the vest on top.

Woman, toss on an infinity scarf and a beanie. Guys, drape some sunglasses from your collar or toss on a standard scarf yourself.

3. Add class to footwear

Knee-high boots and dress shoes need to replace the sneakers and the Uggs. The knee-high boots add a stylish sense of class and composure while dress shoes elevate the outfit from casual to semi-casual.

4. Wear jeans

At some point, you need to come to terms with the fact that comfort isn’t always an option. If everyone else and their roommate is wearing elastic pants or sweats with their vest, maybe it’s time you pulled out those skinny or boot-cut jeans. Making this change alone can add flavor to your outfit.

Vests are awesome when they’re not worn in a boring fashion. Individual style is key to staying warm, sexy and trendy this winter.