<p>I might get one coat here and go thrift shopping once Im in Chicago</p>
<p>or army surplus</p>
<p>I'm on a pretty tight budget when it comes to clothes</p>
<p>don't freak out, you get used to the cold. its not too bad. but you should update your wardrobe. in my experience (i live in evanston), chuck taylors are fine even in the winter, but be sure to bring with you:</p>
<p>snowboots
maybe another pair of more fashionable boots
lots of jeans and long pants
2 winter coats - North face down jackets and wool peacoats are popular
hats, scarves, gloves, etc.
layering pieces: lots of tees, long sleeve shirts, sweaters, and sweatshirts</p>
<p>it sounds like your socal wardrobe should take care of the spring/summer, which to warn you get extremely hot.</p>
<p>basically be prepared for very sporadic and constantly-changing weather. lots of layers will do the trick!</p>
<p>if from cali and looking to stack up on winter staples, you can buy them once you get to northwestern at stores like uncle dan's, which is right by campus. or you can bring them with you.</p>
<p>Here are some sturdy boot-like shoes that will keep your feet insulated and above the snow/slush:</p>
<p>To be honest, most people tolerate a little discomfort during their time outdoors so they are comfy indoors. In other words, if you are going for a 20 minute walk you won't bother with long underwear, you'll just have cold legs. You won't bother with real boots because your feet will roast when you're inside. Many people don't bother with hats, though that's over my line - I need warm ears. I've never owned down, by the way - too much maintenance. Synthetics that you can machine wash are more practical.</p>
<p>You'll have plenty of time to ask fellow classmates about winter wear. You can visit a Lands end outlet or a Kohls department store during their frequent sales for coats, etc. before it gets nasty.</p>