5 Winter Outfits for 5 Occasions
As the air turns cold and the leaves fall from the trees, we begin the annual wardrobe rotation, packing away the lighter layers of autumn and hoping, as we zip up our coats, that our personal style won’t disappear from underneath. Winter in St Andrews may be windy, rainy, and frosty, but its streets are still a runway. To keep you looking chic without sacrificing warmth, here are five winter outfits for five different occasions.
1. A casual day out
This might be the easiest outfit to style, yet it’s often the one we neglect most. Whether you are darting to the post office before the rain sets in, picking up a book from Toppings, or studying in your flat between lectures, looking put-together helps you feel ready for anything.
Opt for slouchy straight-leg jeans paired with a thick ribbed turtleneck in a neutral tone. Add a quilted or a puffer jacket for insulation, and finish with chunky-soled Chelsea boots built to handle both cobblestones and puddles. A bold patterned or colourful scarf tops everything off with personality.
2. The Coffee Edit
St Andrews is practically stitched together with cafes - from the cozy corners of Northpoint to the warm windows of Spoiled or The Cottage Kitchen, your winter coffee-run outfit deserves its own category.
Start with tailored trousers (maybe even add tights underneath to make sure you're never too cold). On top, layer a tank top, a long-sleeve tee, and a soft cashmere crewneck beneath a classic knee-length wool trench coat. The result? A sleek silhouette that still feels cozy and bundled up. For footwear, choose loafers with thermal socks or heeled ankle boots for a polished finish. Add a structured tote for the perfect blend of academic and chic.
3. The Workday Fit
By now, we all know it: the St Andrews Library is not just any library. Students rarely arrive in sweatpants and a sweatshirt because everyday, every place, and every cubicle is met with a fashion forward student.
Pair a neutral trench coat with a cashmere sweater and some flattering bootcut jeans. Wear a heeled boot for an elevated look that polishes and lengthens your silhouette. Complete the outfit with chunky jewelry or a softly draped scarf wrapped around your neck to ensure that you look refined while typing away at your final essays.
4. A Winter Date Night
With the weather changing and the restaurants glowing under Christmas lights, it's natural to want your outfit to match the magic. Whether you’re heading to the Central for cheeky drinks or The Bothy for a sophisticated dinner, this look suits every kind of winter date.
Start with a sheer black top featuring lace detailing for subtle drama. Pair it with black silk trousers and cinch the waist with a chunky belt to accentuate your shape. It’s sultry, sophisticated, and effortlessly festive.
5. The Holiday Party
Festivities in St Andrews don’t pause for winter weather—from society formals to cozy flat parties, your holiday outfit should capture the magic of the season.
Lean into rich textures like lace, velvet, silk, or sparkles with a structured, sophisticated mini dress. Add sheer black tights, elegant heels, and a statement clutch to bring the look to life. On your way to the event, throw on a tailored black coat to keep warm from pre-drinks to the venue while still looking perfectly polished.
Photography by Chiyo Li
