Every fashion enthusiast knows that Fifth Avenue is one of the best places to go shopping. But here at The New School, Fifth Avenue is more than that — it’s a runway. From statement bags to standout shoes, Fashion on Fifth is here to give you weekly, front-row access to some of The New School’s chicest looks. This week, we’re focusing on staying comfortable in the cold weather.

As we head into the spring semester and begin to get comfortable with our new schedules, we also need to get comfortable with our fashion choices. It’s no secret that temperatures continue to drop, and with the cold comes the inevitable need to layer up. But bundling up doesn’t mean sacrificing style — it’s all about finding that perfect balance between fashion and function.

This week on Fashion on Fifth, we’re exploring how New School students are staying comfortable despite the cold temperatures. With New York City in the peak of winter, students are finding creative ways to balance their personal style with the need to stay cozy. From oversized scarves and statement coats to chic knitwear and trendy boots, TNS is turning into a runway of cold-weather inspiration. Whether it’s mastering the art of layering or adding pops of color to brighten up gray days, these students prove that winter fashion can be just as bold and expressive as any other season.

Kirti Poreddy she/her — @kirtiprdy 

Fourth-year Parsons School of Design communication design student 

Kirti’s luxurious fur coat was an immediate eye-catcher. With the frigid temperatures, it’s natural to grab the warmest thing in your closet and throw it on over whatever warm layers you can find. That’s just what Kirti did. When asked about her outfit, she said the coat is the hero piece “you can throw it on to anything, and if [what’s underneath] is ugly, it’s fine.” The coat is from her aunt’s closest — and presumably, “Jersey Mall,” the shopping center that her aunt often gets her clothes from. Underneath, she layered two zip-up jackets for extra warmth and then paired them with black Levi’s jeans and sleek black boots. 

While the fur coat kept her upper body warm and stylish, she admitted her legs were cold. She wished jeans from a “top-rated” brand like Levi’s would at least grant her some warmth, but unfortunately, they didn’t. 

Gianna Silva she/her — @giannasilva_ 

First-year Parsons Strategic Design and Management student

If Gianna’s scarf doesn’t scream comfort, I don’t know what does. A gem she purchased off Amazon, the scarf is both warm and stylish. Paired with a black coat, thrifted boots, and black pants from the Spanish retailer Stradivarius, her outfit is the perfect mix of comfort and style. To top it all off, she toted a brown school bag that was actually designed by her mother. When asked about her bag and her mother’s work, she said, “It’s her hobby … she sells them back home [in Peru].” Gianna’s key to staying warm and comfortable in cold weather? Layering.

Terren Ling he/him — @terrenling

Second-year Parsons fashion design student

When I first saw Terren, I was amazed by the way he was able to marry comfort and formality into one outfit. His long black trench coat and his white button-up — both designed by Yohji Yamamoto —  were definitely a happy couple, so to speak. His black pants and Acne Studios scarf were also a great addition to his monochromatic look. When asked what his favorite piece was, he said, “Probably this jacket. I got it when I was in Japan, secondhand.” Although he mentioned his outfit was refined, he confessed, “as the semester goes on, it’s harder to try to dress nicer and [his outfits] end up being just a hoodie.” 

Adinda Chappelo she/her — @dindachap

First-year Parsons illustration student

When Adinda walked into the Kerrey Hall lobby, my eyes were immediately drawn to her fur-lined denim jacket. She got the piece from the thrift shop 2nd STREET and told me she wears it every day, which makes total sense considering how cute and comfortable it looks. The jacket is a perfect addition to her black Harley Davidson tank top, thrifted black jeans, and silver Onitsuka Tiger sneakers. Adinda told me that she got the inspiration for her outfit after watching Sex and The City. While she was watching the show just the night before, she realized,  “I really have to dress up.” She went on to tell me that her go-to comfort look is a pair of cozy pants and a chic top.  

Bella Montiel she/her – @bellaamontiel

First-year Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts prospective screen studies student

Bella’s outfit is the perfect blend of comfort, simplicity, and style. The pink barrettes and matching hoodie definitely tie the outfit together. “Winter is hard to dress for, and I don’t like wearing coats,” she admitted. But this outfit proves that she certainly knows how to dress for the cold occasion.  Her black leather jacket is a purchase from Edikted, her light pink hoodie is from Hollister, and her blue jeans are from H&M. The classic mini Uggs she wore are sure to keep her warm and comfortable while still looking stylish. 

It may be the spring semester, but the weather (sadly) isn’t getting warmer. However, that doesn’t mean you have to save all your cute outfits for the spring. Fashion isn’t just about looking good, it’s also about feeling good. So, if you want to wear that luxurious faux fur coat one day and then a cozy loungewear set the next, do it. Winter may be overstaying its welcome, but that just gives you even more time to perfect your layering game, mix textures, and turn 5th Avenue into your personal runway.