November has hit the Notre Dame campus, which can mean only one thing: winter is coming. As reluctant as we are to leave fall behind, the transition into much colder weather is a chance for the skilled Fashionista or Fashionisto to show off artful versatility and creativity with layers. I found this Fashionisto in between his classes and marching band practice in a relaxed, colorful outfit that keeps him comfortable in all situations.
Name: Michael Prough
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Biochemistry
College Fashionista: What are you wearing?
Michael Prough: I am wearing grey dENiZEN skinny jeans and an orange Mossimo v-neck with a grey and black striped jacket from Urban Outfitters. To stay warm, I am also wearing a Sonoma leather jacket/hoodie combo. The shoes are blue Converse All-Star, and the orange slap-watch is from RumbaTime.
CF: On a rainy or snowy day at Notre Dame, what are your go-to wardrobe items?
MP: To stay warm, I try to incorporate layers. I usually stick with neutral colors such as blue, grey, black or tan for the lower half and add some color with a bright shirt. I then add a layer of either an open button down or a light jacket and finish with a heavier jacket on top. For more color, I wear bright shoes and watches. On especially snowy or rainy days, I always make sure to carry some warm black gloves and a small umbrella in my backpack. Having these basics makes it extremely easy to throw an outfit together that is still fashionable and warm enough for the Notre Dame weather.
CF: What challenges do guys face to be stylish, and how do you approach those challenges?
MP: One of the biggest challenges that guys seem to face when it comes to dressing fashionably is thinking that it will take too much time and effort. What I have come to realize is that dressing well is not difficult if you gradually add some basics to your wardrobe and learn how to mix and match those with the clothing you already have. After a while, it becomes very simple to put together outfits with little effort or time.
CF: Do you have any advice for gentlemen who want to step up their fashion game?
MP: I would advise guys to start simple. Work with what you already have and add some new items to your wardrobe. Don't be afraid to mix it up every once in a while and find a new use for old clothing you may have overlooked. Also, don't forget to add some personality to your style: a colorful watch, some fun shoes, whatever you feel represents your style.
How To: Michael’s orange base layer is just bright enough to catch your eye, and his bold blue sneakers enhance the warm hue of his shirt and watch. To create the same effect, start with one featured color and then complement your choice with the shade directly across it on the color wheel. So if your focus point is a Fighting Irish shade of green like this Brooks Brothers sweater, pair it with a shirt ranging from pastel pink to dark rose or even red. A simple sweater like this one from Urban Outfitters also creates a fantastic layered look like Michael recommends for fall Fashionistos. The stripes of Michael’s hoodie and the leather of his jacket add texture to his look, which any Fashionista or Fashionisto can repeat by choosing varied patterns and materials. To complete an outfit, don’t forget to add a dynamic watch, scarf, or socks to ensure no detail goes overlooked.
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