Elevate Your Midwest Style: Turning Hoodies and Leggings into Trendy Winter Outfits
Hey, I'm Meg Ann Lee. Recently I saw this girl on TikTok, shout out to Sophie from Madison, who thinks everyone in Wisconsin needs to dress up more because slowly we would catch up to the fashion trends everywhere else and in turn would get better stores here in the midwest. I am not really sure if that's how store planning works but I did dive deep into the comments of her TikTok and as you can imagine… the Wisconsinites teamed up and said we will stick to our leggings, sneakers and hoodies THANK YOU. Now, I personally fall somewhere in the middle here in my personal style but I do agree with what Sophie was saying. I think 2025 is the year we don't save our outfits for a special occasion, we WEAR THEM, that's what they are for!
Winter in the Midwest is all about staying warm, but that doesn't mean sacrificing style! This season, we're seeing cozy essentials like hoodies and leggings elevated into chic, trendy looks on Instagram and Pinterest. With a few key pieces and styling tricks, you can effortlessly upgrade your comfy winter wardrobe into something fresh and fashionable.This weeks blog is all about how to turn basic outfits into ELEVATED outfits without completely changing your Midwest style.
Layer with Luxe Textures
The easiest way to make a hoodie look upscale is to layer it with a statement piece. This year, faux fur is having a major moment. Opt for a faux fur coat or a cropped jacket in neutral tones like cream or camel for an instantly polished vibe. If you're feeling bold, try a rich jewel tone like emerald or plum, which are trending this winter.
Velvet leggings are another must-have. They feel as cozy as your go-to cotton pair but bring a touch of sophistication. Pair black or deep burgundy velvet leggings with an oversized hoodie for a perfect mix of casual and chic.
Step Up Your Footwear Game
Boots are the foundation of any winter outfit, and this season, it's all about chunky soles and knee-high styles. Combat boots with a slight platform add an edgy contrast to soft faux fur and velvet. For a more polished look, pair your leggings with sleek, pointed-toe knee-high boots in faux leather or suede. Both styles are versatile and Instagram-worthy!
Add Trendy Accessories
Accessories make all the difference. Throw on a slouchy knit beanie or a wide-brim fedora for a trendy winter vibe. The fashion girlies on TikTok are saying that Isabel Marant is heavily influencing 2025 trends and my 2015 fringe obsessed self could not be more thrilled! Crossbody bags with braided detail or metallic studs are huge this year and pair perfectly with layered looks. Need to bundle up more? Add a chunky handmade scarf or gloves with faux fur trim for added warmth and style.
Play with Color Palettes
Neutrals like beige, gray, and black remain Midwest staples, but 2025 is ushering in playful pops of color. Lilac, periwinkle, and even bright citrus shades like lime and tangerine are making waves. Incorporate these into your look with a hoodie, a statement bag, or even bold nail polish to stay ahead of the trend. As I always say, if you want to look extra put together in sweats, go monochromatic and match you accessories!
Midwest winters call for practicality, but with these tips, you can stay warm and stylish. By upgrading your hoodie and leggings with luxe textures, trendy boots, and bold accessories, you'll have a wardrobe that's cozy, cute, and Instagram-ready. Whether you're grabbing coffee with your bestie or heading to a holiday work event, these outfits prove that Midwest style can be both functional and fashionable. Now, grab your favorite faux fur jacket, and let's make winter your most stylish season yet! Check out my other style blog posts below <3
