Profile on Style is a weekly post that explores the motivations behind GW’s fashion trends. We’ll show you the most interesting aspects of GW style, and then try to make some sense of it all. Keep your eyes open for a reporter and photographer walking around because you might become the latest trendsetter.

This post was written by Hatchet reporter Talia Weisner.

Name: Erica Schwed
Year: 2015
Major: Communications
Hometown: Jupiter, Fla.
Inspiration: Rachel Zoe
Outfit: Shirt, James Perse; pants, Nordstrom; jacket, H&M; scarf, Nordstrom; boots, Hunter; glasses, Rayban

On cold fall days like these, most people throw on leggings and a sweatshirt and head out the door. But next time, take a note from Erica Schwed and trade that sweatshirt for a jersey tee and a light jacket. Top it off with a cozy scarf and some tall boots and you have the perfect fall outfit – chic, warm and comfortable. Erica’s effortless yet stylish ensemble is the perfect reminder that looking good doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort.

Name: Alexandra Hecker
Year: 2012
Major: Economics
Hometown: Cologne, Germany
Inspiration: Kate Moss
Outfit: Boots, Rag & Bone; sweater, Helmut Lange; leggings, H&M; jacket, Improvd; scarf, Scoop; bag, YSL

The key to staying warm in this weather is layers but they can be hard to pull off without looking sloppy. Alexandra Hecker manages to achieve the look while still remaining polished and fashionable. She pairs her baggy heather grey sweater with a T-shirt underneath – always a smart move when possible – and her leather jacket serves as the perfect compliment to the already chic look.

Name: Ayanna Alleyne
Year: 2014
Major: Journalism
Hometown: Bergen County, N.J.
Inspiration: Iman
Outfit: Sweater, Kitson; pants, J Brand; jacket, Nordstrom; boots, Boutique 9; scarf, Wilfred; bracelet, LF

If the often drab grays and browns of fall fashion prove too boring for your taste, then take a note from Ayanna Alleyne and don’t be afraid to spice it up a little. While it can certainly be difficult to pull off color during the colder months, she manages to make it work. She pairs her otherwise neutral outfit with a bright yet subdued scarf and a classy turquoise bracelet, which brings a touch of subtle flair to her look. Sundress season is over, but that colorful, airy fashion can still be achieved during fall, and she is living proof.

This article was changed Nov. 3, 2011 to reflect the following:
The Hatchet incorrectly reported Erica Schwed’s shirt was designed by James Purse. In fact, the designer’s name is James Perse.

This article was changed Nov. 3, 2011 to reflect the following:
The Hatchet incorrectly reported Alexandra Hecker is wearing a scarf made by Improve, when it was actually designed by Improvd.