Chaps, winter is the season to ooze sophistication; so now’s the time to make the moment count and prepare for the myriad of social events coming your way.
As all the dapper gents know, the winter balls and society meals are a time for understated masculine elegance. Black tie should be adhered to rigorously, but not without your own little twists. Opt for suede loafers instead of dress shoes to stand out or adopt a sophisticated but eyecatching patent skinny belt to complement the black bow tie.
Velvet is not just the soft playing-field of the fairer gender. Harkening back to the halcyon days of the smoking jackets of dandy gents before us, velvet is making a dignifed foray back to the world of smart gentwear. Not just limited to a the traditional red blazer, try a velvet scarf to smarten up your favourite shirt and add texture to your ensemble; Peter Worth offer the perfect combination of luxury and wearability. Topman have a number of great pieces, including this red blazer and a great purple one. ZARA also has fantastic evening-wear this season, from this deep burgundy jacket to traditional black tie suits for relatively reasonable prices.
Take a more casual approach when sauntering around campus, The Courtyard or further affield. Moving on from their summer cousin – the chino, cords are perfect for effortless cool this cold month. Warmer and just as smart, go for dark red to really stand out or play it safe with a light brown: no male wardrobe should be without a pair.
Finally, cast off last years coat and embrace one of the hot new styles to keep you warm on these bitterly cold mornings. Typically one of the most risky fashion buys you’ll make, your winter coat should be carefully considered. Duffle coats are the perfect nod to masculine naval. Brighten up the winters blue with a striking red, or team an earthy brown with some black skinny jeans to accentuate the vintage vibe.
Now that it’s December, get ready for the party season by preparing your wardrobe girls! If you are heading to a college ball, go for glamour and stand out. Sequins are very fashionable this season, and there are some fabulous glittery cocktail dresses in New Look. An added bonus is that they are currently 25% off – what more encouragement do you need? 
If you’re not interested in sparkles, how about velvet? If you want to splash out, Topshop’s ‘Dress up’ concession has some gorgeous velvet dresses in a great selection of luscious shades and cuts. For a little less money, have a look in Deep Vintage Fashion near the Piccadilly bus stop – there are similar dresses in a few more colours. For another alternative browse H&M’s ‘Conscious*’ collection for a great range of ethical party dresses in all styles for under £12 – well within a student budget.
Warm woolly jumpers are popping up everywhere this season – grab one from Deep or Purple Haze and show them off when you go home – not everywhere has such good vintage shops so take advantage of them while you’re in York. However, you don’t need to dress up for every Christmas occasion. For your end of term trips to the pub, liven up a pair of jeans with a pretty blouse – look in Zara for quirky patterns and Mango for sheer and chiffon.
It’s getting pretty cold outside now, though no one wants to lug a coat around on a night out. Invest in a lightweight blazer which will add extra warmth to the beer jacket and is easy to tie around your handbag strap – H&M brought out a great oversized blazer this season, available in black, navy or beige for only £19.99 – a perfect finishing touch to any outfit. Mango also have a great selection of blazers to see you through the next few party months.