Two weeks ago, it was still 67 degrees and sunny outside here in College Park. The weather was nice, the sun was warm and jean shorts were still considered moderately acceptable. Then all of a sudden, almost out of nowhere, winter weather flew in and even some snow hit the ground. We aren’t really sure why this sudden change happened and especially so abruptly, but one thing we do know is that the season of sweaters has officially arrived!

Sweaters are essential for the north because they keep you warm while also allowing you to stay stylish. Different patterns and colors keep sweaters exciting, but something I’ve come to notice recently are sweaters with thick horizontal stripes. The Fashionista here sports a white and brown striped sweater by Aqua, which is great for its incorporation of fall colors.

Fitted cashmere sweaters aren’t seen as often on campus because students want to be comfortable going to class. This is where oversized sweaters come in, and if you look around, you’ll be able to tell that they're becoming much more popular. This knit is great because you can throw a coat over it when you start your trek to class, but as it starts to get warmer you can still wear it without a jacket.

Boots are also key for fall weather and I particular liked how she chose over the knee boots. Leather boots are perfect for cold and sunny days like this and over the knee boots make staying warm easy. Boots come in every different color and style, including short, so finding a style you like is effortless.

Boots have always been fall and winter essentials, but striped sweaters are a new hot commodity. Stripes were popular over the summer with the whole nautical theme hitting the runways, and even though it's not nautical season anymore, that doesn't mean you have to get rid of your stripes. I’ve noticed stripes look best on baggier sweaters, but something to keep in mind is that oversized sweaters don’t always mean they must be unstructured. Finding a sweater with tight sleeves like the Fashionista here is a perfect balance between baggy and fitted. So in the transition from summer to fall and even fall to winter, don’t be afraid to show off your stripes!