Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Who Wears Short Shorts? ... In Winter?


 Shorts?... In winter?... Yes!

 “Winter” shorts are a fun new trend this season. At first, I was not a fan of this look but it has gradually become one of my favorite looks for the season. Pair them with some fun leggings or tights, dress then up or dress them down, pair them will heels or boots, they are very versatile! This trend has been seen on the runways, worn by celebrities, and in stores everywhere. These shorts range in fabrication from tweed, linen, denim, leather, and some are even covered in sequins. Here are some celebrities as well as trends from the catwalk for some style inspiration…









Obviously, our college budget, or as well like to call it, “beer budget”, may not allow us to purchase these exact items but budget friendly alternatives are not too far or difficult to find. You may already have some of these styles in our spring/summer wardrobe that you can bust out for the fall and winter months instead of burying them away, but if not here are some fun and creative suggestions so you can really stand out!
                    

          
    $37.99 @ Shopruche.com                             $32.99 @ Shopruche.com                $ 49.99 @ modcloth.com





                   $26.99@ Charlotte Russe                         $23.99 @ modcloth.com               $22.99@Charlotte Russe


             $17.80@ Forever 21                                         $22.80 @ Forever 21                          $22.80 @ Forever 21


The great thing about this trend is that when the weather begins to warm up again, your wardrobe will be fully stocked with the appropriate apparel! Just take off those tights and change up your accessories and you’re ready to go!

Author: Courtney  


  

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Scarf City

Let’s be honest…most of us are scarf fanatics in one way or another, and now that the cold weather is upon us, we can show the love more frequently! These fashionable accessories are a great addition for any girl looking to show her individual flair while staying warm at the same time. From designer brands to those less expensive “beer budget” worthy styles, there is a scarf for virtually everyone!
The great thing about scarves is that they never truly go out of style...we can spot them year-round either on people's necks, tied around as a headband or even adding pizzazz to a purse or two. The creativity and design of this accessory is constantly evolving, which is why we take such an interest in them to begin with....I mean, what's not to love abou a simple piece of fabric that easy to throw on and create a whole new dimension to an outfit?
      
This season, scarves seem to be Hollywood’s and many of the runway’s favorite go-to fashion accessory. The possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the right scarf style for you…whether it be long, short, fringed, ruffled, colorful, sequined, printed or just hand-knitted, it’s rare to see the same scarf twice. These models and celebs are proudly showcasing their individual styles both on the runway and around town, so why not join them in celebration of the new scarf season?
 


One type of newly popular scarf is that of the “infinity” style, because of its ease, comfort and visual appeal. Although we cannot all afford the designer styles shown below, similar ones can be purchased for much less at retailers who have our college budget in mind!
                                  
  Missoni ($130.00)                                                         Paula Bianco ($95.00)
Express ($20.94)                           Kaboodle.com ($27.50)                               Lulu ($18.00)


A sassy scarf is perfect for your everyday winter wardrobe, as well as a great gift for mom, sister or that fashionable BFF of yours…there is a style and size scarf for everyone that is  within affordable reach, so keep that in mind on your next holiday shopping adventure!
Author: Sydnee

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Sparkle 'n Shine

Sparkle 'n shine is the name of the game for fall!  Even though the days are seemingly getting shorter and darker, it doesn’t mean you have to completely hide the light … It’s time to shine! Put your inner awesomeness on display with fall’s metallic tones, shimmer fabrics, and sparkly sequins galore. Take your favorite fall colors and spruce it up with opting for a piece that sparkles and shines.  You don’t have to stick to the same ole’ sparkly dress that comes around every holiday season;  Shop the latest trends and go for jackets, pants, tops, and shoes that combine bright and shiny shades with a funky, glamorous feel.
From runway to red carpet, sequins can’t be missed.  Some designers that focused on making their garments shine down the catwalk are Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors, Jenny Packham, Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, and Louis Vuitton.   While watching the CMA Awards last week, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the gowns that were shining with sparkles and sequins.  Some of my favorite gowns amongst this glitter explosion were Leann Rimes, Nicole Kidman, the ladies of Little Big Town, Jennifer Nettles, and of course Carrie Underwood.  Even the fashionistas that attended New York fashion week in September were already sporting metallic tones.

Different fabrics and materials can be paired with the high shine materials.  With the emergence of this trend, you can achieve a sophisticated and dramatic look.  You don’t have to stick to typical silver and gold sequins that were probably put on your childhood dance recital costumes and adorned your Halloween get-up while you played pretty, pretty princess. (Okay, maybe that was just me!)  This season, the sparkle ‘n shine trend involves vibrant shades of orange, blue, turquoise, teal, burgundy, and many other thinkable jewel tones.  These shades compliment the popular nude and blush hues.  And as bold as it may seem, I assure you there’s a sequin piece that flatters your style!
(Below left: Laundry $245. Below center: Express $128. Below right: Steve Madden $78.)  
(Above left: Nordstrom $70. Above center: Steve Madden $47.98. Above right: Express $60.)

As we’re looking for more affordable options, keep in mind that the quality of the garment is key.  If sequins aren’t attached correctly and aren’t securely fastened, your garment can fray, ravel, and loose some of its sparkle ‘n shine.  Keep an eye out for loose threads and check to see if your potential garment comes with an additional supply of embellishments.
(Below left: Asos $24. Below center: Forever 21 $15.80. Below right: Forever 21 $19.80.)
(Above left: Forever 21 $32.80. Above center: Charlotte Russe $22.99. Above right: JCrew $39.99.)

Depending on your aptness to go bold with sparkle and shine, your personality, and your wardrobe preferences, sequins can play a role in your day to day wear and also linger on into your evening wear.  Some tips about when and how to wear this trend though, you ask? Well, if you choose to wear a metallic “nighttime” top in the middle of the day, pick a structured shape and style it with a relaxed bottom (like the NYFW-goer picture at the beginning).  Pair a monochrome outfit with sequined blazers and make it your statement piece.  If you typically fall on the “plain jane” style level, go for some subdued sequin pieces: Pair colored corduroy skinnys with sequined flats, top off an oversized knit sweater with a sequined scarf, let a metallic striped oxford shirt peep through a cardigan, or finish your evening look with a shiny clutch.  

While scouring the web for the perfect sparkle 'n shine deals just for you, I came across a few garments that I think would find a perfect home in my wardrobe =)
(Above left - Francesca's $38.  Above right - Forever 21 $29.80. Direct left - Nordstrom $15.90. Direct right - Lulus.com $39.)
Whether it is on a small clutch, a pair of high-waisted shorts, or an entire shirt, sporting sequins is the perfect way to add pizazz to your fall ensemble!

Author: Kaitie