With temperatures below 20 degrees, many people struggle to stay warm and fashion forward. Looking stylish in the winter is definitely more difficult than the fall, spring and summer seasons because people need to wear practical clothing that can actually function in cold weather. But cold weather means more layers of clothing, so every piece, from the hat to the gloves and down to the boots, can make the tiniest difference in your everyday wardrobe.

“I like wearing sweaters and hats in the winter season. My number one accessory is my snow hat and wool socks,” Lesia Fedorak, junior, said. “People should buy more wool socks and knit gloves that you can use for your iPhone or Samsung.”

Fedorak wore a Detroit Red Wings 2014 Winter Classic red and white snow hat, showing her hometown pride and go-to accessory. Hats are one way that both men and women can make a fashion forward statement. The black top hat is a staple, dated all the way back to the 1960s, when only detectives were seen wearing it. Women can find the iconic woven fedora in tan with a black ribbon around the base.

If the top hat doesn’t fit your style, the beanie might just do the trick. The beanie, known for being worn by “hipsters,” is now a hat many people wear throughout the year. In high-wind-speed conditions, a beanie is a necessity.

“Scarves and bags are big. Pops of colors; I love doing bright pinks and maroons. Don’t be afraid to play around with color,” Jacqueline Martinez, sophomore, said.

Martinez carries a newspaper-print, tote leather bag used for school supplies on her way to and from DePaul’s Loop campus. Every student has his or her own preference for a schoolbag – some people stick with the traditional North Face backpack, some prefer a leather or canvas bag, and others choose the typical black messenger bag.

Similar to the hat piece, a school bag signifies a special quality in a person’s character and adding color to any accessory can change the mood in this gloomy weather. The Deena and Ozzy Montrose vegan leather backpack for women is spacious and original for anyone who is bored with their Longchamp tote. The Urban Outfitters backpack contains three zipper pockets and is featured in black or brown.

“Timberland boots are a really fashionable statement that are casual enough for everyday use. It’s straight chic; not hipster,” Michelle Perkovic, junior, said. “All you really need is a camouflage jacket, jeans and some Timberlands. They’re unisex and ‘top-trending,’ but also really practical in Chicago winters.”

In order to survive walking in 10 inches of snow, boots are a priority for the typical Chicago native who relies on public transportation to get around. With high quality boots, higher prices are expected, but investing in a pair of winter boots like Timberlands will prevent water from reaching one’s socks.

In the winter, most people focus on staying warm, comfortable and practical, but that doesn’t mean the weather must infringe on style.