After what felt like a never-ending summer, winter is finally coming to Louisiana. Here are a few recommended items that pair perfectly with the changing seasons, if you’re looking to blow a bit of that holiday budget over Fall Break.
See You Maroon Jacket
$67.99 at ModCloth
Channel your inner Tyler Durden with this wine-red faux leather jacket. This alternative to an authentic leather jacket saves you some cash as well as being cruelty-free, so its a win-win. With a sleek appearance and ability to layer easily with other clothing this jacket is a closet necessity for winter.
Chelsea’s Café grilled cheese on foccacia and tomato soup
$9.95
Although this sandwich is delicious any time of year, windy days are best suited for Chelsea’s signature dish. The filling portion of fluffy focaccia bread and six types of melty cheese helps satisfy those pre-hibernation food cravings. The spiciness of the soup is sure to help keep you warm during the upcoming months.
Gumbalaya
$5.75 at The Jambalaya Shoppe
The weather gets slightly cool, and everyone in Louisiana is ready to break out the gumbo pot. Some college students, though, may not cook quite like their mothers do. Avoid the boxed gumbo, and head to the Jambalaya Shoppe on Old Hammond. Their “gumbalaya” puts a twist on typical gumbo by subbing their delicious jambalaya for the basic rice, and, yes, it is as amazing as it sounds.
“Hot Hands” pocket hand warmers
$1.97 for two
It’s well understood down here that we do not sacrifice tailgating because of some silly cold weather. That said, if you’re going to sit in Tiger Stadium for a freezing night game, you will need a couple of things. Hot Hands’ pocket warmers are considered game day heroes in my book. Stick them in boots, pockets or wherever you want, and they’re your little personal heater.
Swiss Miss hot chocolate packets with marshmallows
$7.57 for a box
Coffee can be enjoyed any day, but hot chocolate is a special little something that’s meant only for chilly weather. Swiss Miss instant hot chocolate packets — the marshmallows included one, of course — mixed with milk in the microwave puts anyone in the winter mood. It’s best served extra hot in a mug on the couch with a blanket and preferably a puppy.
Herman Koch, “The Dinner”
$7.99 for Kindle
One of the most unlikable narrators of all time tells the story of two couples navigating the most difficult decision of their lives, over the course of one extremely pretentious dinner. Their teenage sons have together committed a heinous crime, which brings forth the issues of classicism, ambition, dishonesty and how far a parent will go to protect their child. Fans of “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” and “Gone Girl” will love this.
Horse Feathers, “House With No Home”
$9.99 on iTunes
Portland’s Horse Feathers have mastered the art of atmospheric winter music with soft strings, mournful vocals and warm melodies. This album is ideal for walking to class on a cold and rainy morning or curling up with a good book. If you’re burnt-out by the end of the year, “Working Poor” knows exactly how you feel.
Spiked Out Faux Suede Loafers
$29.80 at Forever 21
Tights and flats are a staple of winter wear, and something about freezing temperatures and prickly shoes seems to fit. Kick back at the biting cold with these sharp, studded loafers, paired with leggings and a sweater or tights and a circle skirt. Get out of that jeans and boots rut.
