According to Merriam-Webster, chic is an adjective that means “cleverly stylish” and “currently fashionable.”
So, what does Scarlette think is chic?
In a snowy state like Ohio, fur coats are an essential for the winter season — bonus points if they’re vintage. Fur coats not only keep you warm, but also give you a classy look for any occasion.
Although we love a genuine fur coat commonly made from fox, mink or rabbit, it’s best to get those secondhand. Buying faux fur is the better option, ethically, and just as fashionable. Some of our favorite places to shop for fur coats are Depop, TheRealReal and local thrift stores.
Another type of coat we adore are trench coats. Pioneered by Burberry in 1879, trench coats are timeless. Loved for their breathability and protection against the elements, trench coats are ideal for a windy, fall or rainy, spring day.
They say fashion trends always come back, and that couldn’t be truer with boot cut jeans. According to G-STAR, boot cut jeans were popular in the 60s and 70s as part of counterculture. The jeans were worn as a symbol of freedom which they still represent today. They made a reappearance in the 2000s but in a more form fitting, low-rise style. A couple decades later, they’re now a fashion staple.
Another fashion trend resurfacing from the past is cowl neck tops. According to Who What Wear, cowl necks broke into mainstream fashion again in the late 2010s as part of the 90s revival. Vice writes that what used to be the 20-year-cycle, where fashion trends would take twenty years to make a resurgence, is now a five or ten year cycle. This is evident with brands like Garage, Princess Polly and Urban Outfitters all offering their own versions of the cowl neck.
On the topic of tops, another of our favorites are turtlenecks. The iconic Audrey Hepburn wore a black turtleneck in the film “Funny Face” (1957), and it became one of her signature looks, wrote Vogue. In the past, turtlenecks were a symbol of intellectualism and activism, movements we now need to bring back more than ever.
In an interview for The Straits Times Giuseppe Zanotti once said, “Never underestimate the power of a shoe.” That quote can’t be more true, especially when it comes to stiletto boots. Stiletto boots are a perfect blend of heel and boot that dress up any outfit. Scarlette members suggest pairing them with long pants or a midi skirt.
Another shoe we adore are ballet flats. Ballet flats aren’t just for practicing pilés and pirouettes — now, they’re an everyday shoe. Hybrid shoes are becoming increasingly popular, with brands like Adidas, Onitsuka Tiger and Puma coming out with sneakers inspired by the ballet look. Playing it straight, Chanel, Marc Jacobs and Steve Madden have released Mary Jane-style ballet flats.
Gone are the days of minimalism. No outfit is complete without accessories, and in 2026, we’re bringing the details back. Leather gloves are a personal favorite, along with accent scarves. In the end, though, the best accessories are the ones that speak to you. Instead of focusing on whatever is trending right now, invest in pieces that will last you a lifetime and show your own unique style.
The Lexington Line asks a valuable question: “But I often wonder, is being chic solely dependent on the clothes we wear, or is it something more?” While Merriam-Webster defines chic as it relates to fashion, it’s evident that it’s much more. Chic can be a lifestyle, ideology or pursuit.
Here’s how to live your life, “Scarlette-chic.”
- A night out with the girls. With all the stress of daily life, take a night off every once in a while. It’s always fun to discover new restaurants, enjoy happy hour or dance your heart out at the club.
- Have a sweet treat. Diet culture is invading every aspect of media right now, from fashion to film to music. Although it’s important to be mindful of what you’re putting into your body, what’s really chic is balance — everyone deserves a break from time to time.
- Read. It doesn’t matter what you read as long as it interests you. It’s probably good to switch it up every now and then, but whether it’s books, blogs, magazines, newspapers or even fanfiction, reading helps stimulate your brain, which is extremely chic.
- Go on a run. It may not feel the best when you’re doing it, but afterwards, it’s worth it. Running outside is a great way to get some sun and explore your city. If you need some motivation, find a friend to go along with you.
- 90s and 2000s romcoms. What better representation of girl power in pop culture than romcoms? Not just about romance, these films also focus on female friendships and empowerment. Some of our favorites are “10 Things I Hate About You,” “She’s The Man” and “Ella Enchanted.”
- Spotify jams. Thanks to technology, you can queue up your favorite songs to play at any event, giving everyone the chance to be a DJ. Music is one of the best ways to connect with your friends and your community. When you can’t find the right words, just put on a song!
- Your favorite lip liner. Everyone has clothes, accessories or makeup that they cherish. Maybe you have a sentimental story behind it or maybe you just really like it. Take your friend, for example — that one who just can’t go anywhere without her favorite lip liner. It makes her look and feel good, which is super chic.
Being chic means being the best version of yourself. Fashion plays a part, but just like fashion, “chic” is about expression. You can express yourself in many ways; don’t only limit yourself to the clothes you wear.
Next time you’re worrying about what the world thinks is chic, take a step back. What really matters is what you think is chic.
