Courtney Wylie – CollegeFashionista

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Pleated Skirts

Is there anything better than having the perfect go-to mini skirt? Like a pair of your most coveted jeans, a skirt of any shape and/or size can take your ensemble to the next level. A skirt can push your ensemble to a whole new dimension, taking you to a new level of femininity and chicness and giving you a newfound confidence that cannot be ignored. Not to mention, a skirt like this Fashionista's can take you from a casual day look to a formal night look by just adding heels.

No matter the length, whether long or short, accordian pleated skirts are having a major moment right now. A flowing skirt, when accesorized properly, can be a very versatile look. Pair a midi skirt with a plain T-shirt and suede booties and you'll nail the perfect bohemian look for fall. If a Fashionista wants to sport the skirt in a very chic and feminine way, complement the pleated skirt with a silk blouse. Tuck the blouse in for a work-appropriate look and add bold accesories to keep it youthul and fun. This Fashionista opts for a casual, preppy look while adding lots of fall colors and a cozy cardigan. My favorite look is a midi skirt, a tucked in blouse and studded belt with tall suede boots. Even team up your favorite pleated skirt with a pair of Converse All-Stars to make the look ultra cool and casual.

Be aware that larger pleats can add volume to your lower half while smaller pleats are more flatterning. On that note, tuck in your shirt and belt the skirt for a look that is more polished and refined.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Graphic Sweaters

From playful prints seen at Markus Lupher to all-over stripes at Gryphon, graphic sweaters are the most outrageously fun trend Fashionistas have seen yet. Make like those in the know and team this Markus Lupher knit with a pair of solid color pants to make the illustration really pop. For Fashionistas that love the trend but want to tone it down a bit, Stella McCartney's Intarsia sweater is less of a cartoon graphic and more of a color infused optical illusion, making it easy to incorporate subtle pieces.

Today's Fashionista wears her heart anywhere but on her sleeve. The contrasting colors liven up any Fashionista's wardrobe while the graphic heart is playful and irreverent. These aren't the typical graphic T-shirts you see on the angsty teenagers perusing your local shopping mall. In fact, the new graphic sweater offers a touch of elegance into the mix and trust me, you'll love these youthful prints and the experimental color blocking so much that you just might try the trend for yourself. If I had to chose, I'd sport the Samantha sweater by Tory Burch.

Since quirky prints can catch onlookers attention easily, keep the rest of your look simple and clean cut. Opt for leggings if the graphic sweater is oversized for a relaxed fit during the day and throw on a fitted pencil skirt to stand out from the night crowd. Graphic sweaters can be worn with your favorite pair of jeans and loafers or a frilly mini skirt and heels. Keep in mind, the color and print may dictate the rest of your ensemble but will not fail to pump up your charm.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Energetic Embellishments

Fashion heavy weights are testing new waters with major embellishments. In the past, they’ve used prints, matte neon, and technicolor patterns to release new levels of creativity but this fall is a whole new story. Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton came out with geometric prints for his fall collection while Dolce&Gabbana’s Shakespearian-themed fall collection wooed the hippest trendsetters. Needless to say, this fall is all about serious embellishments – incorporating embossed accessories like Rebecca Minkoff’s M.A.B. mini as an everyday item is the norm. In addition to embellished necklines, beaded bibs, chunky necklaces, bold golds and sheer cutouts also are a new way of showing sexy detail. Alexander Wang and Altuzarra are my current favorites of New York Fashion Week, showcasing resort wear with major embellishments and textures, namely the thigh-high embellished sandals and more specifically, Altuzarra's scalloped embroidered bustier seen on Joan Smalls. Perfection.

The greatest part of the embellishment trend stands within it's strength for being so versatile. Whether a Fashionista is super girly or daringly edgy, there's an embellishment option for everyone. One can sport the trend with any piece from Pamela Love, giving way to an organic vibe. For a regal take check out Fenton/Fallon's chunky necklaces. Go all out by draping yourself head-to-toe in Chanel's delicately beaded seashell-inspired collection or their all-natural clutch that could make mountains crumble. Take note from today's Fashionista by layering a shiny necklace over a plain navy tank accompanied by a high neckline. When incorporating major detail into your outfit, be sure to balance it with a cool pair of jeans like this Fashionista's Citizens of Humanity cropped jeans and texturized pumps. Try out the trend and your wardrobe will have a newfound energy, giving you an extra punch of total fashion fun!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Bold Blues & Colorful Hues

This fall, Fashionistas everywhere are singing the blues, but not in a bad way. Designers like Proenza Shouler and Versace are mixing in an unexpected bunch of bright colors and bold prints with neutrals. Humble knits from the past are being reinvented with bold brights and embellished necklines, giving way for Fashionistas to wake up their wardrobes like never before. From bold shades of cobalt to the powder blue seen on today’s Fashionista, it’s no secret that the color is one that transitions from season to season. It’s no wonder layered denim in every pattern, cut and style made such a comeback this summer. Unlike the typicality of plain denim though, fusions of color and unique prints are destined to be seen on every city sidewalk this fall.

Today’s Fashionista opts for a beachy look (weather permitting) by applying touches of bold colors to complement her white jeans. This Tory Burch satchel adds a punch of preppy while the sleeveless pink top adds an element of casual-cool.

To make best use of the colorful tones in your wardrobe, wear the bold blues head-to-toe. In addition, incorporate textures such as velvet, lacquered lace, sheers and thick knitwear. This sweater by Stella McCartney is a perfect combination of both parts romantic floral and bold color. To play the trend safe, pair your bright hue with a sleek leather skirt or pant, which can take you from a day in the office to a night on the town.

If you haven’t had the chance yet, be sure to check out Erdem’s Resort 2013. Its blissful blues and combination of refreshing patterns in feminine silhouettes are simply amazing.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: White After Labor Day

With the end of summer quickly approaching, the saying “don't wear white after Labor Day” sparks debate. Along with the fear of school starting up, we worry whether or not we'll get away with sporting our white wardrobe pieces through the rest of September. It created an American society where the elite stood apart from the impoverished. As a new season approached, the elite class used this no white after Labor Day rule to exhibit their wealth by swapping out their summer whites with dark pieces for the autumn months.

In recent years, specifically ready-to-wear collections for fall 2012, designers such as Oscar de la Renta and John Richmond have forgone the “no white after Labor Day” rule by incorporating texturized white-on-white ensembles. From the delicate lace textures and soft cashmeres seen at Isabel Marant to sharply tailored pant suits trumping the Prabal Gurung runway, designers are all for the white-on-white look. When wearing white past Labor Day, be conscious of fabrics and textures. Stay away from light fabrics such as linen and cotton, but utilize cashmeres, cordorouy, tweeds and heavy cable knit.

In addition to being extremely versatile through any season, white is a simple and crisp option for everyday errands, class and/or work. Personally, my go-to is a white V-neck T with my favorite pair of 'Boy-Fit' jeans from J Brand. For a more formal look, take note from today's Fashionista. She looks like a chic dream in a little white dress that she paired with an embellished asymetrical jacket. The dress is interesting because of the sheer neckline and the scalloped bottom, but the jacket stands as the outfit's center piece. The jacket, a piece that could be paired with anything from a pair of skinny jeans to a cool leather skirt, is the show stopper in the all-white ensemble because of its beaded embellishment and asymetrical zipper. The embellishment not only keeps the look from looking too plain, but it also upholds the metallic trend for fall.

To fully capitalize on the jacket's potential, pair it with an edgy counterpiece such as a hip-hugging trousers or glossy black pants from H&M. Like today's Fashionista, promote this new cool-weather neutral with frilly white frocks and a light cardigan.

Would you wear the white on white trend for fall? If so, don't forget to complete the look for fall with heavy accessories like chunky gold necklaces and bracelets.

Style Guru Bio: Courtney Wylie

My name is Courtney Wylie and this fall will be my third term as CollegeFashionista's Drexel Style Guru. I’m more than honored to be Drexel University’s pioneer Style Guru and I have already gained a world of knowledge through my participation with CollegeFashionista. Not only have I become more open minded when choosing my wardrobe pieces each day, but I’ve also come to appreciate other Fashionista’s individual styles, too. In the past, I have stuck with traditional neutrals but this fall I’m attempting to make my wardrobe transform from my everyday black and neutral ensembles to a palette of warm hues complemented by outrageous prints. My favorite trends for fall include the tailored pant, geometric prints and of course, peplum anything. I will be reporting every Monday with my STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK column, showcasing the ongoing trends that dot Drexel University’s fashionably diverse campus.

As the king of fashion, Tom Ford, once said, “Style isn’t about money. You can have no money and have great style; you can have a lot of money and have great style, but more often when you have a lot of money, you don’t have great style.” I feel compelled to agree with Mr. Ford. I believe style is personal and has little correlation with the amount of wealth an individual contains. My favorite part about everyday style is that it's a way of expressing one's self without having to say a word.

As a typical college student, I draw my fashion inspiration from what I spot on the streets with a combination of trying to emulate high fashion trends seen on the runways. Personally, I tend to dress for a busy schedule but my style can be defined by clean, tailored lines, bold accesories and a wardrobe consisting of equal parts edginess and lush, feminine pieces.

I love discovering new trends and I thoroughly enjoy living in a melting pot full of different cultures and elements of style, such as Philadelphia. I consider myself lucky to have access to the sidewalks of the City of Brotherly Love and I take the opportunity to notice the edgy fashion and eclectic style that fits the residents here.

In life, dressing appropriately for every occasion and expressing yourself through originality is one of the most important rules a Fashionista/o could follow. Exhibit your everyday wardrobe in fun and creative ways by staying true to yourself and you’ll never go wrong!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: A Is For Aztec

It’s safe to say that the spring and summer months have been a major style moment for Aztec prints. We saw everything Aztec-clad from iPhone cases and accessories to full-on tribal print dresses and shoes. Simply put, the print is everywhere. The color palette used by designers like Rebecca Minkoff is strikingly bold while the print allows anyone donning the trend to look like a fun optical illusion. Compare this trend to a bold choice of hot pink lipstick or your new found infatuation with embracing neon-colored nails. It is pure fun and notably fitting for the ease and casualness that Fashionistas crave during the warm-weathered months. Not to mention, the bold print and colorful brights update any summer look.

Take advantage of the trend in a more subtle way like today’s Fashionista. She paired her favorite skinny jeans with white MaddenGirl gladiator flats and a natural colored Aztec-print top. To look even sleeker, wear a pair of black skinnies and jacket to really make the print stand out from the rest of the outfit.

If playing with bold colors and prints are your thing, maximize the look by pairing an Aztec-print top with a print of a different kind. My favorite look is Aztec print accompanied by a feminine color palette: pinks, purples and reds mixed with a cheetah print or plaid. Although the trend generally speaks to the flower-child crowds that attend the summer festivals or your tie-dye induced Phish concert, the Aztec print can be worn in a tasteful way. To create a classier look while donning Aztec pieces, sport the prints in a more conservative way. For the autumn months, grab your favorite pair of dark wash jeans and balance them with a fun Aztec-print shoe.

Sporting the Aztec-print in the fall is something I look forward to. One way a Fashionista can sport the trend in the autumn is to wear Aztec-print tights or leggings with a plain blouse and skirt, keeping the style preppy while still adding a touch of flare. Check out this skirt from Express and pair it with a cozy crew-neck and basic flats.

Style Guru Bio: Courtney Wylie

My name is Courtney Wylie and this spring will be my second term with CollegeFashionista. I’m more than honored to be Drexel University’s first Style Guru and I have already gained a world of knowledge through my participation with CollegeFashionista. Not only have I become more open minded when choosing my wardrobe pieces each day, but I’ve also come to appreciate other Fashionista’s individual styles, too. In the past, I have stuck with traditional neutrals but this summer I’m attempting to make my wardrobe transform from neutral territory to full-blown color. I will be reporting every Monday with my STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK column, showcasing the ongoing trends that dot Drexel University’s fashionably diverse campus.

As the king of fashion, Tom Ford, once said, “Style isn’t about money. You can have no money and have great style; you can have a lot of money and have great style, but more often when you have a lot of money, you don’t have great style.” I feel compelled to do nothing but agree with Mr. Ford. I believe style is personal and has little correlation with the amount of wealth an individual contains.

As a typical college student, I draw my fashion inspiration from what I spot on the streets varied with high fashion trends seen on the runways. Personally, I tend to dress for a busy schedule but my style can be defined as preppy chic.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Sail Away

A trend that stole the spotlight for 2012 fashion was military style wardrobe pieces. But with navy-inspired pieces seen on every runway, the utilitarian look will have to take a back seat for now. Needless to say, nautical stripes are stealing the spotlight and Fashionistas are set for sail with their summer-loving nautical style. Stripes are never considered outdated in terms of trends. It's a classic look that will forever represent summer street style and evoke a sense of sporty chicness. In Philadelphia, different shapes and colors of nautical pieces can be seen on every street block and with good reason. Nautical stripes are flattering on almost all body types and can be worn in large or small doses. Nautical stripes are preppy, chic and most importantly versatile. Today's Fashionista wears the trend in a minimal way.

This Fashionista caught my eye with a thin striped look in a classic navy & white combination. The cut-off jean shorts give way to an all-American vibe while the strappy wedges spice up the otherwise casual outfit, making it perfect for a sunny, outdoor BBQ. If you want to go full-on sailor style, opt to pair your nautical stripes with wide leg flares, reminiscent of the retro-style that the original sailors sported while at sea. Feel free to wear a bright hue with stripes such as a hot pink or a vibrant yellow. For instance, try a bold pant with a classic striped top. In terms of layering, check out some complementary colors like a deep red to further optimize the look. Visualize: A nautical striped blazer with a pair of red pant, skirt or shorts and you'll be half way to nautical domination. Another major trend to try with nautical stripes is to match it with a different pattern such as florals. To keep this bold look relevant and flattering, be sure to pair small stripes with a simlilarly sized pattern of florals and larger stripes with larger floral prints. In simple terms, always keep contrasting patterns within the same size range.

That being said, don't take the trend too literal if you want to keep a good balance between classic and trendy. Pair a striped pant with a cream colored silk blouse and wedges for an underplayed version of the trend. Sport a neutral colored tailored blazer with your favorite striped racerback tank. Take note from this Fashionista, who perfects the trend, furthing proving that nautical stripes are no longer reserved for just the country club members bronzing on the beaches of Nantucket. Despite being far from the shores of Cape Cod, take a dive into the nautical trend & a feeling of summer sophistication will overcome all your summer woes.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Ladylike Dresses

Leg bearing season is in full swing and Fashionistas are not shying away from sporting wonderfully feminine skirts and dresses. Since the beginning of time, women have spent their days learning the how-to for becoming a lady. Still, women seek the secrets of elegance through self-help books, magazines and ultimately trying to emulate cultural icons like Audrey Hepburn. Unfortunately, style icons like Katy Perry and Rihanna have created a new wave of different, more rebellious style files. As it’s been stated before, society has depicted glamour as vibrant colored hair, outlandish Lady Gaga-inspired outfits and the occasional trip to the hospital for “exhaustion.” Lately, that cultivation of part edgy, part eccentric ensembles have made ladylike wardrobe pieces seem boring and irrelevant. As a result, women have forgotten how to look and act with class and dignity.

Luckily for Fashionistas, brands such as Jason Wu, Prada and Honor are taking fashion back to etiquette class with ladylike dresses and skirts. These pieces are no longer reserved just for work functions or a black tie affairs. In fact, these dresses and skirts are perfect day to night transition. This Tracy Reese dress is perfect for a day or night wedding because of its print and shape. The digital print gives it a modern yet playful vibe while the shape of the dress renders it as irresibtably vintage.

Ladylike pieces are timeless because of the full skirt, making the fit appropriate for all body types and relevant throughout every decade. The flare shape created by the full skirt paints a picture of the perfect retro look while still being youthful and glamorous. For those warm days, slip on something comfortable while trekking to lectures. Today’s Fashionista channels her inner Jackie Kennedy Onassis by sporting a pared-down and pretty striped dress from J.Crew complemented with nude pumps. To down-play this look even more, opt to wear a pair of flats or sandals.

The sporty style of the dress keeps the look preppy and fun while the cardigan, Tory Burch shades and nude pump allows the look to remain ultra-femme. Although this dress isn’t full-skirted, the cinched waist makes it a more casual version of the Ladylike frocks that trendsetters have come to know and love. Keep in mind, if you dress well, you feel well. Try this timeless look and you'll instantly feel more like a lady; no etiquette class required.