With a nor’easter headed toward the coast, the dreary weather would make any student want to hide in their dorm room all day. But rain gear can be ultra-comfortable, stylish and fun to wear. Toss out the sweatshirts and opt to brave the rain with bright colors and versatile pieces that make even the dreariest days look chic.

An umbrella is a rainy-day necessity, but find one that goes beyond the average drug store staple. The umbrella should not only offer a lot of coverage to keep the rain from blowing under its canopy, but it should show off personal style and stand out from a Manhattan sea of black. Try the Mini Unikko Mini Manual Umbrella from Marimekko ($49.00 at kiitosmarimekko.com). The red-and-orange poppy-themed umbrella is both lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in your bag.

Rainboots are an essential wardrobe staple when combating flooded streets. Invest in Hunter Boots, a brand known for making stylish and versatile waterproof footwear available in colors ranging from vermillion to steel blue ($135 at hunter-boot.com). Keep your feet cozy by layering boots with colorful knee-high socks. A solid pair of rain boots can stand the test of time and elements.

For a rainy day that is more humid than chilly, try waterproof flats. With all the style of your every-day shoe, it is easy to look fashionable without sacrificing comfort. Anthropologie’s Duckie Rain Flats are a great option ($68 at anthropologie.com). The rubber tops are available in classic colors like navy or red and have leather detailing.

Stay high and dry with London Fog’s classic rain coat with a toggled hood and detachable liner ($178 at nordstrom.com). This raincoat gives you two looks in one with its reversible feature. Choose to wear the solid color for a classic look, or go bold by flipping the jacket inside out and showing off the animal print lining.

Protect your school books from the elements with a stylish waterproof tote bag or backpack. A water resistant pouch alleviates you from the worry of damaged term papers. Find a bag that is both durable and versatile in a neutral motif to match any outfit on any day. Whether it’s raining or not, you will get double the use. Bric’s U.S.A. Life’s East West Shopper tote ($210 at zappos.com) has an olive suede effect with leather detailing. and best of all it is totally waterproof. Once you have assembled a chic waterproof ensemble, keep hair and makeup in place with products that work with your natural beauty. Smooth your hair with an anti-frizz product like John Freida’s Frizz-Ease Hair Serum ($7.19 at drugstore.com). Take water-resistant makeup to the next level with Makeup Forever’s Aqua Waterproof Makeup line (available at makeupforever.com). The collection has liners, shadows and foundations in nearly every color and tint.

Whether you are facing a slight drizzle or getting prepared for a hurricane, it’s possible to dress appropriately while staying fashionable and fabulous.