STORY BY FREYA PINEDA, STAFF WRITER
GRAPHIC BY FREYA PINEDA (including photos from @/globalevintage, @/ewenward, @/cheriemadeleine, @/tinttapi, @/irmasvea)
Students at Cypress College find themselves at the crossroads of East Coast chic and West Coast cool when winter descends onto the campus with a chill that’s closer to a cold breeze than an icy snow; the competition for winter style supremacy has begun and on this sun-kissed campus, the clash of coats and scarves is an example of the argument between West Coast and East Coast winter fashion.
Students adopt a carefree attitude toward winter attire since they live on the West Coast, where the season might act more as a mild reminder than a fierce freeze. Cozy knits, hoodies, and denim jackets become the go-to defense against the chilly weather. On the West Coast, it is ideal to transition along with the seasons from streetwear to comfy wear.
Meanwhile, a larger-scale winter fashion drama is playing out on the East Coast. Winter on the East Coast necessitates clothing that not only looks good but also protects against the bitter cold. Students who are good at striking a balance between warmth and grace will find that layers are not only a stylistic option but also a survival tactic.
However, Cypress College turns into a runway where the urban elegance of East Coast and the laid-back charm of the West Coast collide. Some students choose the easy breezy look of a West Coast inspired outfit, mixing chunky boots with soft sweaters. Others adopt East Coast style dressing in fitted coats and accessorizing with fashionable yet functional layers.
“Honestly I feel like the nature of West Coast winter fashion feels more interesting,” said political science major Bianca Alcantara. “ I don’t know if it’s just the vibe or the weather; because we live in California that makes it feel like you can’t layer as much so it feels a little more boring. But I definitely do like the feel of West Coast winter fashion”.
There is more at stake in this fashion argument than just aesthetics. West Coast winter attire is seen as practical since it permits outdoor activities without compromising style. On the contrary, despite the freezing temperatures, East Coast winter fashion is praised for its ability to turn the streets into a runway.
I personally have fallen in love with East Coast fashion all four seasons of the year. Their ability to “overdress” in the winter is my favorite time for fashion because everyone is dressed up, whether they intended to or not.
Sophomore Trenton McCrossin said he prefers East Coast fashion as well. What he likes more about East Coast fashion, other than the East Coast being known for birthing several fashion trends, is that many people there dress for style and self-expression rather than comfort, something McCrossin appreciates.
Students create a style narrative that crosses coasts as the winter at Cypress College develops, bridging the world of fashion from the East and West. Fashion, in general, serves as a medium for self-expression, showcasing that there are no geographical restrictions when it comes to style– whether it is inspired by the urban flare of the East or the breezy ease of the West.
