Author: Erin Curran

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Show Your Shoulders

As summer has started to come to an end, fall collections have been holding my attention from store to store stocked with oversized sweaters and deep jewel tone clothing. After I spotted this Fashionista, however, my love for summer fashion came rushing back.

This stylish undergrad is wearing a silk and lace off the shoulder blouse. One shoulder tops have been in style for a while, but I found myself totally in love with the two bare shoulder look. It offers a bohemian flare that exemplifies summer’s flow and flirtatious freedom. The large eyelet lace is also a great aspect of this blouse. It adds texture and volume to the shirt as well as gives the material a feel of the exotic. I also love the cream and white combination of the silk and lace. Overall, this blouse is feminine and festival- ready. For fall, be on the lookout for off the shoulder long sleeve blouses such as this Joie Jefferson top from Cusp.

Given the weather has started to cool off, this Fashionista has paired her blouse with a pair of classic- washed cropped jeans. The length of the jean brings attention to her adorable dark brown wedges. These are a great end of summer option- the wedge is a staple summer shoe, yet the dark brown leather offers a fall touch.

This Fashionista has kept her jewelry simple with a classy pair of pearl earrings. Her neutral wallet and matching neutral nails also flaunt a subtle sophistication that is also on trend.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Colored Denim

Colored denim has made a huge imprint on summer fashion this year. Whether cut-offs or cropped jeans, this trend has been seen in a variety of styles and bold colors that are a perfect choice for a summer day or night.

This Fashionista has selected a bright turquoise colored cropped pant. Not only am I a huge fan of this fun hue, but the wash is also worn which gives an interesting texture to her ensemble. The cropped length of the pant is flattering to tall and short Fashionista’s alike and draws attention to her classic black flats. Cropped and colored denim are a signature staple to a summer wardrobe.

A simple black tank and open white sweater accompany these fabulous pants. My favorite thing about colored denim, particularly within the blue color family, is the incredible variety of shirts that you can pair on top of the color- particularly other denims and patterns. With this color turquoise I would sport a floral patterned tank or an open back silk top. Colored denim is also a great bottom option when wearing denim on top, such as a blouse or vest, to keep the outfit balanced.

This Fashionista pulled together her outfit with a vintage studded belt and matching black flats. The belt is a fun addition to her outfit and adds a chic flare to her classic black and white layered tops. With the final touch of a boho middle part, this stylish undergrad’s look is both trendy and classic.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Wild Wedges

One of the greatest things about fashion is that no matter how wrapped up you get in avant-garde styles, you can still always be drawn to simple outfits with classic elements. Especially during hot summer months, why not keep it simple in a chic tank and versatile shorts? At the end of July, this Fashionista is definitely keeping cool in a classic navy tank and coral shorts.

Coral is by far summer’s hottest color — from lighter hues to saturated brights, coral has made such an impact on summer fashion thanks to it’s flashy and complementary tone. The right shade of coral will flatter any skin tone. The cotton short is also a great and comfortable alternative to denim cut-offs.

This Fashionista has smartly paired her coral with a navy tank. The simple ruffles across her chest offer just enough detail and texture to give make the outfit chic. Turquoise and coral is a great color combination — the touch of a turquoise bracelet is a great subtle addition to the outfit.

However my absolute favorite element in this outfit is her killer wedges. The soft camel colored leather gives the high shoe comfort and support, while its thick and intricate straps give it some awesome detail. This summer season, a lot of designers have turned their attention to the actual wedge itself. Rather than playing up patterns on the straps, patterns have taken center stage on the platform of the shoe. This Fashionista picked a vivid tribal pattern in her wedge. The muted colors within the pattern offer a dichotomy of rugged sophistication. These wedges truly dress up her outfit, yet the light leather and colorful tribal pattern make them a wearable daytime shoe. Also, the coral tones in the wedge totally complement the soft coral color of her shorts. Wedges are an absolute summer must-have, particularly ones with a great pattern to spice up any outfit!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Neon Brights And Summer Whites

Neon has made an unstoppable appearance this summer season both in tops and pants. Personally, the bright saturation of neon has become so associated with summer that I find it hard to believe it has just come about in designer's collections this spring/summer season.

A great thing about neon brights is their versatility in fabrics and outfits. Casual neon colored clothing provides great summer beachwear options or perfect outfits for festivals. However, they can also be turned formal and preppy within silks and polyesters. This Fashionista is sporting a neon pink silk blouse over a white denim skirt. White denim, particularly jeans, is an essential staple item for any summer wardrobe. White jeans offer a light alternative to blue jeans and much like neons, white denim exaggerates tanned skin.

With this heat, it is no surprise this stylish undergrad has selected a skirt to wear during the day. Both her white denim and neon pink are vibrant selections that automatically catch any eye.

Neon pieces don’t necessarily require being patterned to make a statement; the bold hue of neon itself holds a loud personality. I also think the solid color really makes her statement gold necklace a central aspect of her outfit. I love the chunky tangled gold beads that add heaviness to this Fashionista’s outfit which contrast the lightness of her blouse and skirt. It also adds to her overall preppy style, particularly when matched with her gold ball earrings.

There is nothing better to pull together a preppy east coast look than a classic pair of Sperry Top-Siders. This Fashionista’s metallic pair is a fun alternative to standard leather: perfect for summer sun and a perfect match to her gold jewelry.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Shop For Crops

With the heat rising, hemlines are following suit — particularly with shirts. During the summer, it is nearly impossible to walk into a store without coming across a crop top or two. Crop tops are an awesome addition to a summer wardrobe and their incredible variety of styles can be worn to a range of events; I’m a huge fan of neon tees for the beach and crocheted lace for music festivals.

This stylish undergrad is flaunting a put together summer look based on her classy denim crop top. The shirt is of formal quality just as a collared button-down, yet it is also sleeveless which gives it an edgy, daytime flare. Neatly tucked into a wildly patterned and colored high-waist skirt, this fitted top perfectly balances out the volume of the skirt. When wearing a denim button-down crop top like this one with pants, opt for a bright colored or patterned pair of high-waist pants. For an additional and polished summer fad to this look, tie the ends of the top in a knot just over the button of the pants.

One trend that will never go out of style is healthy skin. This Fashionista has protected her head and face with a cream and black fedora. Normally I don’t go for hats, however, this weaved fedora has a nice fitted shape and minimal embellishment of a black ribbon to give it just a little detail. It is both practical and beautiful. This funky undergrad finished her look with a classic pair of brown western cowboy boots and a gold-studded shoulder bag.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Stay Neutral

Neutral shades are a staple color tone of clothes and accessories for all seasons, but especially during the summer nudes perfectly highlight tan skin, elongate bare legs and dress up daily items.

Sheer silk blouses have taken center stage this year for many collections. Many of my favorites have been ones with striking patterns and neon colors; however, I was really drawn to this floral beige top. With the neutral base color, the corals and yellows of the delicate flower bunches are both eye-catching and subtle. By paring this blouse with casual jean shorts, this Fashionista has both chic and relaxed elements about her outfit. A quick swap for a saturated pink bandage skirt, and this outfit is ready for a night out!

I am head over heels for this stylin’ undergrad’s nude wedges. With a corked heel and braided straps crossing over her toes, these shoes play up her tan legs and tall stature. These wedges would be perfect for any summer day or night look because their color and confidence go with everything yet have a personality of their own.

This Fashionista has topped off her look with a neutral brown cross-body bag with a gold chain shoulder strap. I have always loved neutral colors paired with metal — particularly gold and brown. The combination is both elegant and edgy! Additionally, she mimics the gold in her purse with a funky pair of studded gold starfish earrings.

From her nude blouse to her champagne finger nail polish to her natural heels, this Fashionista has matched various taupe tones to play up her summer tan and beachy hair. This is definitely a summer look I recommend to wear anywhere around town!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Leap For Loafers

Classic loafers are a summer must this season. Not only do they dress up any outfit, but they are comfortable and simple enough to slip into and give you the ability to spend all day on your feet. This Fashionisto is wearing a vintage pair of Cole Hann loafers. The two-tone brown gives the shoe an eye-catching quality. The brown tones in the shoe with the touch of a gold buckle offer a neutral and metallic combination that is both beautiful and timeless.

This coordinated undergrad has paired his classy loafers with denim cut-off jean shorts. Rolled once just above the knee, jean short cut-offs are a staple trend to men’s summer fashion. Paired with a button-down shirt with light brown buttons and a navy embroidered vest, this outfit also has a summer western flare. It also really plays up this Fashionisto’s unique personality and style!

I am in love with the purple-tinted shades this Fashionisto is wearing, which add an exciting emphasis on his face and mimic the purple tones in his button-down shirt. Topped off with bleach-blonde curls, this Fashionisto embodies both a summer look and a fresh take on a traditional loafer-inspired outfit.

Loafers have as much of a voice in women’s fashion as they do in men’s. This year, a lot of collections have even included wedged loafers that add sophistication and sass to create an overall preppy look. Designers have also experimented with studs, colors, patterns and prints in both men's and women’s loafers.

This stylish undergrad has proven that whether you’re simply running around town or headed off to an internship, loafers are a classic look that demonstrates sophistication and refinement to formal and informal outfits alike.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Patterned Pants

When it comes to bold prints and funky patterns, this season’s designers have moved them south from tops and blouses to bottoms by incorporating them into brightly colored and decorative pants. Patterned pants are unique and eye-catching and really give an outfit a strong voice. They emphasize one’s legs and their loud colors are an awesome summer pick to sport around campus, the city or the beach.

I am in love with this Fashionista’s spotted, loose-fitting cropped pants. Polka-dots are a great, simple pattern that is both flirty and flattering to a range of body types. The dark navy with white dots makes the print really pop, while the cropped length is an awesome, light and practical summer go-to.

This Fashionista is rocking a lightwash denim shirt with navy polka-dot pants. Denim blouses, particularly in light and worn washes, are a summer staple that totally complement a range of patterned bottoms. She has also beautifully paired a gold statement necklace in the collar of her blouse that gives her outfit a sense of formality and distinction.

When searching for patterned pants, be sure to try Joe’s Jeans High Water printed denim, which come in a variety of exciting colors and prints. You’re sure to find a color scheme and pattern that matches your personality and individual style! In addition to polka-dots, an incredibly popular pattern this summer is floral.

This stylin’ undergrad has topped off her look with a pair of classic white Converse tennis shoes that dress her outfit down for an easy day look that is also comfortable to get around Boston in. Matching the white beaded headband and pulling back her tight low bun, this Fashionista has both elements of elegance and the everyday that make her outfit perfectly balanced and interesting.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Bold Blazers

One of my absolute favorite things about summer fashion is the unlimited array of bright, saturated colors. Whether it be tops, pants, shorts or dresses, color makes bold statements in all summer collections. Color also has the ability to turn classic pieces into fun and flirty options to wear during the day or night, without loosing their sophistication. In particular, bright colored blazers offer a stylish and eye-catching summer twist to their elegantly tailored origin.

This Fashionsita has selected a rich melon colored blazer to top a black and white patterned dress. The lack of color within the dress really accentuates the blazer as the statement piece of her outfit. Furthermore, the structured and slightly oversized jacket adds an element of conservative that balances the short skirt length of the dress. The jacket also radiates a preppy New England vibe. Bold blazers are filling racks and collections across the board this summer, but don’t be afraid to venture to a thrift store or two to find the perfect colored blazer — this undergrad’s jacket is vintage.

This chic undergrad has finished off the look with a simple sliver necklace and gold flat sandals. She has also opted for a black cross-body bag to carry. The black ties in nicely with her pattered dress, however with this outfit, I would experiment with bold colored purses as well. With this deep melon blazer, I would pair a bold mint colored purse, such as this one from J.Crew.

Bright colored blazers are also easy items to utilize for color blocking an outfit. Color blocking, first hitting the runway in spring 2011 collections, is noted by singular bright colored pieces being paired with other bright colored pieces. For example, pairing a hot pink shirt and blazer over bright blue cropped pants. 

I have always been a huge fan of blazers because they are so easy to throw on over a dress, tank or blouse, they add sophistication and coverage, and they can be worn anywhere to almost any event — formal or daily.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: All Laced Up

Lace has always been a classy staple to a college wardrobe and it is one of my absolute favorite materials to wear. Although much of my lace is in the details of white blouses and tops, this season’s lace is all about experimenting with color and pattern through bottoms.

This summer, be on the look out for lace shorts, such as Anna Sui’s runway floral scalloped lace shorts. Free People also has great daily options including a flirty lace skort. Furthermore, don’t limit yourself to full lace options — trending this summer are lace accents to jean shorts, vests and other denim classics.

My favorite thing about lace is how delicate and feminine it makes any outfit. Yet, lace is also incredibly versatile. Spreading across all seasonal boundaries, lace can make an outfit bohemian, classic, girly or preppy, depending on the size and pattern of the lace, as well as its color. Another important factor in establishing the style of an outfit are the other elements being worn with the lace item.

This Fashionista has chosen a deep red lace mini. The red is a striking color that works with the large eyelet of the lace to immediately draw attention to the detail of its lace pattern and the skirt as a whole. Its length and fit allow the skirt to be worn both during the day and at night. Paired with a pastel blue tank and a black blazer, this bright red lace comes across as a classic look with a preppy flare.

I also love the thick silver bracelets paired with this outfit. The hard metal offsets the feminine lace, offering an interesting contrast the outfit as a whole. This classy undergrad has pulled the look together with simple black flats, making the outfit totally wearable to a variety of events.