Gearing up for colder weather has a tendency to freak people out, at least in terms of fashion. A lot of us end up thinking we have to leave our taste at the door just because we have to throw on an outer layer, but that’s so not the case! Forever 21 has come out with a killer new collection of coats to covet called The Outerwear Edit, and it will have your last year’s jackets running for the hills.
It’s fabulous for so many reasons, the first being that no item is over $65—no, that’s not a typo! You’re probably used to seeing outerwear price tags that are well into three digits, so it’s such a relief that Forever 21 has us budget-friendly and style-savvy collegiettes in mind. We’ve handpicked the cutest items from the collection that will keep you stylish and cozy at the same time!
1. Layer up
Shaggy Faux Fur Vest, $39.80
Before it gets to be full-on jacket weather, vests are by far the go-to item. Great for game day, classes and fun fall dates, they’re the best layering tool of the season and actually add a substantial amount of warmth. A faux fur vest like this Shaggy Faux Fur Vest ($39.80) does wonders! Of course it’s super soft, but more importantly, it’s so trendy! As a statement piece, it’s sure to steal the attention away from the rest of your outfit, so flaunt it while you can. This vest would go perfectly with a charcoal waffle knit sweater and a black mini skirt. Cue style swooning!
2. Experiment with texture
Faux Suede Moto Jacket, $57.80
You know how amazing your feet feel in a pair of fluffy slippers? Well, that’s how your whole body will feel in this faux suede number – except you’ll actually look cute and sophisticated while you wear it! This coat is all about the details: the belted waist, asymmetric zipper and über soft faux-fur lining... how can you possibly go wrong? Plus, the loose fit allows room for a few extra layers if it’s a really chilly day.
Trying out pieces with texture doesn’t mean automatically turning to faux fur, though, if you aren’t a fan. Try out a boucle piece like this Wool-Blend Boucle Coat ($47.80), which has an amazing oversized shape for extra warmth and chicness. In case you were wondering what boucle is, it’s a type of yarn with a curly ply, which is what gives this coat a rich quality. Plus, it’ll help you stay warm without making you look like the Abominable Snowman! This classic cut is a safe option to wear over a dress for a fancier occasion, like a fall formal or dinner out in your college town.
3. Try out different lengths
Textured Knit Coat, $44.90
As far as cold weather goes, the longer the length, the warmer you’ll likely be! With this knit coat, you can be super warm without looking like a slob, which will come in handy especially whenever you’re heading to your internship or job. Besides keeping you toasty, the coat’s length adds an extra level of sophistication.
Nonetheless, you can still get away with cropped jackets in the fall; all it takes is finding one in the right fabric! The collection’s Heathered Moto Jacket ($32.90) makes up for its lack of coverage with its soft and sweatshirt-like material. Pair it with high-waisted skinny jeans, add a beanie and you’re good to go!
4. Go mod
Double-Breasted A-Line Coat, $59.80
The mod look from the 60s is re-emerging this fall, and this double-breasted coat is a great piece you can wear to embrace the trend (and stay warm while you do it)! Seriously though, this jacket looks like it could totally have scored its own scene in Mad Men. The double-breasted front flap offers a sophisticated look that can transition you from day to night, plus it’ll keep your upper torso warm even on the windiest of fall days. All you need is a cute skirt; bold, thick-knit tights and some girly oxfords, and voilà! Instant cozy chic.
5. Embrace an edgy look
Hooded Biker Jacket, $42.80
A moto jacket is a classic item that can easily complete any fall-worthy outfit. This faux leather piece takes the typical moto jacket to a new level with the added hood; what better way to stay chic and cozy at the same time?! If you’re looking for a little extra pop of color, opt instead for the Belted Faux Leather Moto Jacket ($22.90); the bold shades and textured shoulder details make it the perfect item to balance out a girly outfit or even to throw on top of a basic top and jeans.
If you’re not quite ready to embrace an edgy look with a bold pop of color or a hood, we suggest opting for a Zippered Faux Leather Bomber ($42.90), which may be a better choice for your comfort zone. With its asymmetrical zipper and silver hardware, the bomber jacket is a safe yet edgy piece that can easily become an everyday staple! No matter what you’re wearing this fall, adding on an extra layer in the form of an on-trend jacket is sure to up your style cred and your warmth factor.
6. Opt for oversized
Shawl Collar Coat, $39.80
You’re probably used to fitted coats that taper at the waist or come with a belt to frame your waist, but once in a while it’s nice to go with the oversized look. This shawl coat makes us feel cozy just by looking at it! The loose fit gives the coat a laid-back look, yet it can still be trendy and sophisticated thanks to the draping lapels. When you’re headed to class on a chilly morning, you can throw on some booties, a wool snood and a fab oversized coat, and you’ll be ready for anything!
The Outerwear Edit collection also features an Oversized Open-Front Blazer ($32.90) that’s just boxy enough to be incredibly on-trend, but not so boxy that you feel like one of the crooks in Home Alone. It comes in black and camel – both must-have colors for fall! You can play this piece to your advantage, whether you’re going shopping and want to nail the effortless street-style look, or looking to channel an old-school preppy vibe.
Forever 21’s Outerwear Edit Collection has so many options —anyone with any type of style can find something chic to wear that will also keep them snug as the temperatures drop this season. Believe it or not, this collection is actually making us even more excited for the chilly weather to come; forget pumpkin spice lattés and fall foliage, just bring on the fab fall fashions!
Brought to you by Forever 21.
