Every year, girls look forward to the upcoming cool weather. This winter, cropped sweaters seem to be making their presence known through many different styles. Whether your Instagram pictures have the basic “sweater weather” caption or you’re someone who prefers a “trendy” location picture, there is probably a 75% chance you’re sporting this new fad. They seem to be the solution to the constant problems thrown at us by Florida’s inconsistent winter habits.   

Problem one: You live on the beach, but it’s too cold to tan. 

Solution: cropped sweater & jean shorts 

The sweater will keep you nice and cozy while you enjoy your feet in the water and sand.   

Problem two: It is 37 degrees, but you still want to go out. 

Solution: cropped sweater & high wasted jeans

Wearing this allows you to avoid “looking like a mom” (every college girl’s fear) by showing off your midriff. The sweater keeps your upper body warm, while jeans protect your legs. 

Extra Tip: wear thermal leggings under your jeans. The leggings will compliment the feeling of the sweater nicely and distract from a cool midriff.   

Problem three: It is now 48 degrees, but you still want to go out. 

Solution: cropped sweater & high wasted skirt 

This may seem repetitive, but I think we can all agree that wearing jeans out is not fun. Take advantage of the extra “warmth” and try wearing a skirt. Typically your midriff won’t show, so the only thing revealed will be your legs. If you are trying to up your “trendy” game, wear over-the-knee socks with  lace-up booties. For those not as daring, the pair looks great with socks and riding boots as well.

Problem four: You don’t have any skirts to solve problem 3… 

Solution: cropped sweater & flowing dress 

Faking a skirt is easy with a cropped sweater. Simply put the sweater on over your dress and no one will know the difference. This not only creates an awesome look, but also adds an extra layer of warmth to your upper body.     

Problem five: You were brave and bought a pair of patterned pants and have no idea what to do. 

Solution: Add a cropped sweater. 

Aztec and tribal patterned pants have become increasingly popular, but most basic girls, like myself, are clueless when it comes to wearing them. A cropped sweater is the perfect match because it will calm down the vibrant pants and keep you comfortable in the cool weather.   

Now the only problem is how to afford so many sweaters as a college student. Solution: Every store has them! 

As cropped sweaters have grown in popularity, almost all retailers have started carrying them.Below are the stores carrying the sweater styles I have featured. 

Problem one: Sabo Skirt / $36.00 

Problem two: Forever 21 / $14.90 

Problem three: Tobi / $52.00 

Problem four: PacSun / $34.95 

Problem five: Tobi / $18.00