How To Wear Shorts in the Winter

I just returned from my study abroad trip recently (which is the reason for my lack of posts these past few months - sorry!) and I cannot believe how cold it is in Illinois! I pretty much have avoided going outside as much as possible and I have to sprint outside to take out the garbage and get the mail. As I unpacked my suitcase, I got really sad looking at my shorts from the summer.

So I was inspired to do a guide on how to wear shorts in the winter. Thanks to the fashionable girls in Beijing who made miniskirts and cutoffs work in the cold weather, here are some outfit ideas on how you can recycle your summer shorts.

Old Navy Womens Lightweight Roll-Sleeve Boyfriend Shirts, $20 AE Classic Cardigan - American Eagle Outfitters, $30 AE Women's Wool Peacoat (Black), $90 Tweed Cuffed Short, $16 Cable Knit Wool Tights - Tights & Socks - Clothing - Topshop USA, $24 Tamiko High Heel Oxford, $98 Ecote Surplus Messenger Bag, $50 Classic Winter Scarf, $30

This all-American look is perfect for wearing around campus in the cold weather. When looking for shorts to wear in the winter, you can never go wrong with tweed or wool shorts - preferably in a looser fit. They are much more weather-appropriate than denim or cotton shorts. Pair the shorts with a classic white button-up shirt, some warm cable knit wool tights, oxford clogs, plaid scarf, and a preppy navy jacket for a chic yet effortless look.

Throw in a cardigan if it's extra chilly outside - just make sure it's fitted so the outfit doesn't look frumpy. If you're afraid of slipping on ice, opt for a pair of regular oxfords instead of the heeled ones shown above.

Rose Pink Dobby Blouse, 35 GBP Charlotte Fur Vest, $50 Floral Jacquard Shorts, $18 Tights for Every Occasion in Business Trip, $15 Amazon.com: N.Y.L.A. Women's Numi Oxford: Shoes, $75 Glitter Clip Frame Purse, $12 Womens's JEWELRY - necklaces - Cloak & Chain Necklace - Madewell, $42 Oatmeal chunky armwarmers, 10 GBP

This outfit may not be suited for going to class in the snow, but it's a great going-out look. Begin with a pair of formal black shorts and a ruffly blouse (any feminine blouse works for this outfit). Build on it with a fur vest - which is super trendy this winter (and of course, faux fur works just as well) - and sheer gray tights. Accessorize with some classy booties and a sequin clutch for some extra sparkle. You can even throw on a pair of chunky armwarmers (another winter must-have) for some extra warmth.

Lace Insert Loose Tank by ALLMYLOVE, 28 GBP Miss Sixty black faux leather studded bomber jacket with fleece hood..., $78 Military Lace Vest - Teen Clothing by Wet Seal, $10 Bailey, $12 Liquid Leggings, $25
GUESS Women's Owens Ankle Boot, $83 studded hobo - Handbags & Wallets - at debshops.com, $25 Chain and feather necklace, 25 GBP

This look is perfect for the edgy, fashion-forward girl. I mentioned earlier that tweed and wool shorts work best for winter, but this outfit shows how your favorite pair of denim cutoffs from the summer can also be recycled for the cold weather. The essentials here are a lacy tank, a white vest, and a rocker-chic must-have - a fitted leather jacket.

To take the edginess to another level, accessorize with some liquid leggings, a fabulous fringe necklace (another huge trend this season), and an oversized studded hobo. Select your favorite pair of boots or booties - this military-inspired ankle bootie adds just a touch of color to the whole look.

ASOS Tie Neck Military Blouse, $48 Aryn K. Chain Detailed Blazer, $99 Kimchi Blue Ruffle Tap Short, $15 Tights for Every Occasion in Business Trip, $15 Very Volatile "Marlena" oxfords, $59 brown leather laptop bag, 60 GBP

Okay, so shorts are generally frowned upon in the workplace, but this outfit makes the whole shorts look work. Start with a pair of feminine tap shorts in chiffon or silk (these are also great materials for winter wear) and wear tights underneath in a basic color like gray or black. Then add a work-friendly blouse like the chic forest green one above. Top it all off with school-girl oxfords and a clean-cut blazer. A worn-in laptop bag is the perfect accessory.

*Note - If your boss or workplace is very strict about the dress code, this outfit might not work so well. Don't take the risk and stick to the basics. Keeping your job is more important than being fashionable.