ACCESSORIES REPORT: Back in Black

Images of sophisticates all hold an alluring similarity. They are draped in the classiest and most intriguing segment of the color palette—black. While mystery and intrigue may not be part of the average college ensemble, this Fashionista was the epitome of college campus chic. The floppy felt hat she wore was refreshing against the knitted beanies that covered most heads on campus. Truth be told, I very much welcomed this hat from the fedora that covers manyt a Fashionistas head.

It is important to note the manner in which an outfit can magically transform by topping your head with a strong dose of vintage flair. Hats, especially floppy ones, can polish your minimal getup, but with all accessories it is important to take note when adding them to your clothing. Accessories are meant to enhance and personalize your look. Remove the hat on this Fashionista and her outfit is still strong. Her basic leggings, thigh-high leather boots and silvery jewelry still very much evoke a trendy and futuristic feel. Her pin straight hair and fringed shawl are more relaxed and cozy. She successfully manages to soften the look with her felt hat, happily marrying more than one trend.

When I asked her who her favorite designer was, she said, “I love, love Rachel Zoe.” I should have known! So remember, in the same mantra as the designer’s Zoe Report, “Be Glamourous. Every day.”

Spotted: Ready to add the much needed poise we all envy on fashion magazines from the seventies? Check out the very sophisticated collections of Christian Dior and Gucci.

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ACCESSORIES REPORT: Back in Black

Minimalism. I know what you're thinking: “Isn't that word usually reserved for hispsters to use when critiquing paintings of white cubes?” Nope. Long before there were hispters there was Calvin Klein (or maybe Calvin Klein was the original hipster? the chronology is unclear) and ever since the word minimalism has been synonymous with chic. As the days get warmer, albeit marginally, I've noticed that students along the Eastern Seabord have been shedding their winter coats in favor of lighter crisper jackets. But bulky parkas aren't the only thing we're saying goodbye to in the new year. In the long list of things on thier way out, anything involving color, is pretty close to the top. I guess what I'm trying to say here is… black is back.

Black is a fool proof go-to for any occasion. That's just a fact. From the origional fashionista Diane Pernet to Vogue Paris Editrix Emmanuelle Alt, black is the tktktk. All the same, monochrome is tricky. When it comes to all black, there's a thin line between goth and glam but the right accessories can certainly tip the scale. As we've discussed, when it comes to self-styling, it's all in the details, and head-to-toe black is no exception to the rule. In this week's Accessories Report, Lora, a third year student at Barnard, schools us all in the art of minimalism with an all black-ensemble that's equal parts cool and classic. She achieves this immaculate minimalism by pairing her layered look with a crisp and classic cream colored “Peek-a-Boo” bag by Fendi, a be-baubled black bracelet, a quirky but clean ring, and a silver timepiece. This all too perfectly put together CollegeFashionista just might be the epitome of chic. Take a cue from Lora this season and spice up an otherwise bland ensemble with one or two simple pieces in lieu of a wrist full of colorful bangles. I mean, I love my arm candy as much as the next girl but it's time to face the music: we can't all be Iris Apfel.

Spotted: Calvin Klein, the fashion world's kingpin of minimalism, showed another fuss-free, fully 90's collection full of scoop necks, nude tones, and flowing silks. For spring, stick to classic shapes and textures pairing a monochrom look with simple accessories, and as always, a good shoe. Fashion is best served straight-up, don't you think? 

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ACCESSORIES REPORT: Back in Black

As every Fashionista and Fashionisto knows all too well, an all black outfit can make a powerful statement. Whether that statement is expressing sadness with winter weather or simply wanting to strut around in a classic Hepburn-inspired dress and tights, an all black outfit portrays a Fashionista’s sense of powerful style.

To use the words written by ACDC, this Fashionista is truly “Back in Black”. What struck me about this Fashionista were her killer Ray Ban sunglasses. Unfortunately during the winter months sunglasses as accessories get replaced with gloves, scarves and hats. This is why I was so excited to see this Fashionista rocking her Ray Ban Wayfarers so well. Although Ray Ban has many different styles of sunglasses from these Wayfarers to Aviators, the style of the Wayfarer sunglasses are perfect for the all-black outfit she is wearing.  My personal favorite sunglasses are ones that bring back a vintage '50s or '60s style.

This Fashionista is also wearing a classic black peacoat, which is a staple in every closet. Peacoats are especially great for men as well and are a much better alternative to a hoodie. This Fashionista’s basic peacoat takes her outfit over the top with style. Under her jacket she is wearing a fabulous black knit sweater with a thick neck to allow for more warmth and an excellent neckline, especially when paired with her peacoat. With her sweater, she is rocking a black mini skirt and black tights, which is a great change-up from black pants. Little black skirts are great for all Fashionistas because we can celebrate our love of dressing up and we can do so with skirts! ModCloth.com has some fabulous vintage skirts to class up the everyday. Lastly, this Fashionista has finished her ensemble off with mid-length black leather boots. Let’s be honest, being “back in black” looks fun!

Spotted: Ray Ban Clubmaster sunglasses celebrate '50s retro style.

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