Author: Kar Lim

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Shannon Lescene

The school year is almost at an end as finals draw to a close, yet the weather in New York City is still quite mild. Despite the urge to wrap up in warm down parkas and fur-lined boots, fall weather is still here and one must dress appropriately. This Fashionista kept warm by layering a cozy knit and fitted jacket, but the unbuttoned effect makes the look comfortable and just right for the temperature. Ankle lace-up booties kept the legs sleek and balanced out the business of the upper half of the outfit.

Name: Shannon Lescene

Major: Marketing

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Shannon Lescene: I am wearing a Michael Kors jacket I found at Century 21, an Old Navy cardigan and boots from Steve Madden. My bag is from Tory Burch.

CF: Where are your favorite places to shop?

SL: My favorite places to find clothing are Zara, H&M, Topshop and NECESSARY CLOTHING.

CF: Where do you find fashion inspiration?

SL: Hm… Instagram! Does that count?

CF: What are some trendy pieces that you plan on wearing for holiday parties?

SL: I love everything leather so leather tops and leather tights will be my go-to for this holiday season.

How To: The look is relatively simple to achieve. A basic tip to keep in mind is to stay within a similar color family. This Fashionista chose to stick mainly to black, which always looks slimming and is a classic color for cooler days. Another tip is to add a pop of print to one element of the outfit whether it is the jacket, cardigan, denim or boots. However, be wary of clashing prints that can make the outfit look awkward and sloppy. Get a similar look by starting with a patterned drape cardigan from Victoria's Secret. Keep the frump to a minimum by structuring the look with a hardy faux leather jacket from BB Dakota. Finally, add a rocker-esque edge to the look with sleek motorcycle boots from American Eagle.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Sofia Mogliazzi

White can be hard to spot in New York because the urban smog and grime of the city that never sleeps will quickly ruin a timeless jacket or handbag. I spotted this Fashionista rushing to class, a jumble of papers close at hand, and marveled at her smart approach to wearing white outerwear. By layering an overcoat over a white jacket, the look has a flash of bright white that is protected from getting tarnished from daily wear. The rest of the look consists of black elements and earth tones, which always look chic.

Name: Sofia Mogliazzi

Major: Journalism

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Sofia Mogliazzi: I am wearing H&M pants, Victoria's Secret PINK jacket and my coat was from a random sample sale. I bought my purse from an Italian boutique while I was traveling.

CF: Where are your favorite places to shop?

SM: I definitely shop at H&M and Zara the most.

CF: What advice would you give to fellow college students in terms of looking good on a budget?

SM: I would suggest that college students stop trying so hard. Sticking to the basics and learning how to accessorize go a long way in making a look.

CF: What are some trendy pieces that you are currently digging?

SM: I’m keen on edgy pieces so studded shoes are right up my alley. I also want some leather acid wash denim or a jacket with that type of print.

How To: Invest in a sturdy white denim jacket by Express that will retain its shape and color for many years to start the look. To keep your white layers clean and fresh, layer up with an oversized overcoat from ASOS. Since the outfit can be a bit top heavy with all the layers, slim the legs with skin-tight black jeggings from American Eagle. Lastly, accessorize with a brown satchel from J.Crew to polish off the outfit.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Diana Achaibar

Managing a college workload on top of extracurricular activities and out of school pursuits can be quite a challenge, so a Fashionista always has to stay strong and thick-skinned. There is no better way to translate your inner drive than to rock some studs and a tough biker-esque leather jacket. This Fashionista paired a classic chambray shirt with on-trend stud details with her go-to leather jacket to conquer the day.

Name: Diana Achaibar

Major: Operations Management

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Diana Achaibar: My shirt is from Marshall's. The boots are from Burlington Coat Factory. The tights are from H&M and my backpack is from Urban Outfitters. I made the hat myself by adding the studs.

CF: Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

DA: I mainly like to shop at H&M and Forever 21. I go for anything that looks rugged and urban but I am not really partial to any specific brands.

CF: How do you decide your outfit for the day?

DA: The weather is a big determining factor of what I will wear. Rita Ora is also a huge fashion icon for me so my style is similar to hers. My must-have fashion pieces include lots of rings and studs, a leather jacket and combat boots.

CF: What is your ideal fall outfit?

DA: For the fall I am a fan of peacoats, tall boots and infinity scarves to keep warm.

How To: This fall, add some angsty pieces to your wardrobe starting with a distressed denim shirt by Bullhead. A leather jacket is a timeless piece that everyone needs in their wardrobe so it is excusable to splurge a bit on a high-quality one. The Topshop ‘Winston’ jacket is a great option is you want genuine leather that will last you decades. A plain beanie is great to keep your head warm, but a studded beanie from ASOS does the job and adds an extra element to your look. Keep your feet planted firmly on the ground with edgy combat boots by Charlotte Russe to finish off the look.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Jacqueline Nguyen

In the modern and streamlined beat of the city, it can be a breath of fresh air to see some retro trends that look funky (in the best way possible, of course) amongst a sea of stilettos and dapper black outfits. I spotted this Fashionista heading to the library sporting black and brown Mary Jane-inspired wedges along with a pair of gradated cat eye sunglasses. A pop of bright red from her handbag gave the outfit a bit of pep without looking gaudy or overdone. This Fashionista keeps her look on trend by staying simple and accessorizing with bold accents.

Name: Jacqueline Nguyen

Major: Undecided

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Jacqueline Nguyen: My pants are from Zara. The jacket is from Topshop and I believe my scarf is from Urban Outfitters. My sunglasses are from Chloé.

CF: What kind of trends do you tend to rock?

JN: There are no particular trends that I go for. I like simple pieces that I can easily layer to create a look. In the summer I wear more color, but what I wear mostly depends on how I feel that day.

CF: Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

JN: I mostly like to shop at Zara and Club Monaco. I try to incorporate pieces from everywhere.

CF: Where do you look for fashion inspiration?

JN: I am inspired by Zara’s website, like their lookbook and how they style the models. I also look at a lot of fashion catalogues like the ones from Prada.

CF: What is your ideal fall outfit?

JN: My ideal fall outfit would consist of a blazer layered over a chunky knit sweater and a fur coat to top it off. Also, heels are a must-have for my ideal outfit.

How To: Start off the outfit with a basic gray coat with a belted waistline from Kenneth Cole. The fun starts when you add accessories, like a pair of tortoise shell print cat eye frames from ASOS and suede ankle strap wedges by Jeffrey Campbell. If you crave a little more color, then a red slouchy hobo purse from J.Crew is perfect to complete the look!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Qing Qing Han

Being that New York City is the concrete jungle, it only makes sense that some exotic prints should be spotted. Sure enough, I found this Fashionista wearing a khaki coat with a bit of leopard faux fur lining peeking through. The bold print was well balanced with demure brown stockings and leather ankle boots. The gold hardware of the boots complements the golden hues of the leopard print, while making the overall look more sophisticated and posh.

Name: Qing Qing Han

Major: Finance

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Qing Qing Han: My coat is from Zara and the sweater is from H&M. My boots are by Vince. My shorts are from a boutique in China.

CF: What kind of style do you like to emulate?

QH: I like Miu Miu’s style because it is classic but updated. I like to wear basics, but they have to have an edge so they are on trend.

CF: What is a fashion must-have that you always have in your closet?

QH: My fashion must-have is a mini skirt that fits my body well. Mini skirts are a go-to for me because I can style them with any outfit.

CF: Where do you look for fashion inspiration?

QH: I look at a lot of street style blogs on the Internet. I usually surf Chinese websites for ideas. There are a lot of Chinese versions of sites like Facebook and Lookbook where regular people post their own outfits, which I find inspiring.

CF: What is on your fashion wish list at the moment?

QH: I would love to get my hands on a Céline bag but not the Luggage Tote, which I call the “smiley face” bag. I prefer the Trapeze Bag with blue fur on the front, as it is more unique than the Luggage Tote.

How To: Start off with a cozy cream knit from Topshop that should be a closet staple. Add some ferocity to your outfits with a leopard print vest from Forever 21 that will show just a hint of your wild side without overwhelming the look. Layer up with a green anorak from MINKPINK to tone down the print and adding warmth to the outfit. Tuck your feet into brown leather boots with gold hardware by Elizabeth & James to complete this fall appropriate look.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Lenora Asanova

Frosty temperatures mean dusting off down coats and packing away the sheer layers until next year. But dressing warmly doesn’t always have to mean looking frumpy. This Fashionista styled sleek, modern pieces to keep warm without weighing her down. Knee-high boots elongate the legs while providing extra warmth to the calves, while a long coat slims the figure while insulating more of the body. A bright red lip adds a touch of classic glamour to the overall look and ties it together seamlessly.

Name: Lenora Asanova

Major: Finance

Year: Senior

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Lenora Asanova: My coat is from Zara as are the leggings. The boots are by Steve Madden.

CF: What are your must-have fall and winter fashion pieces?

LA: I love knee-high boots for the colder weather. I prefer a flat or low heel because they are comfortable to walk in while looking a bit more fancy or dressy than a plain shoe. Skinny jeans and leggings are another must-have for me.

CF: What are your favorite fashion brands?

LA: I like to shop at GUESS, Armani Exchange, bebe and Zara. Their clothes fit me well and feel more suited for my body type.

CF: What are you coveting right now?

LA: I love this brand called GIZIA, which is well known in Turkey but the designer is from Roberto Cavalli. I have a few things from GIZIA, but would like to add a few more of their dresses to my wardrobe.

How To: A structured coat is the ultimate fashion necessity when facing the city chill. Look for a coat with a cinched waistline and detailed hardware if you have a more feminine style. This wool military coat from Zara should block the wind while looking chic. Instead of leggings, opt for jeggings from American Eagle, which will give a similar look and extra protection against the cold. Keep your legs warm in knee-high suede boots by Joie and you are ready for class!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Amber Johnson

Trekking around the city to get to class can take its toll on one’s physical and mental health, making it difficult to add some pep to your outfit. Black and white clothes are staples in any college student’s wardrobe, but a real Fashionista knows how to add some fun into the mix. This Fashionista went with comfortable college classics: a warm black jacket with faux leather sleeves and comfortable black denim jean, but added an electrifying neon scarf to brighten up the day. Her chic, statement frames also set the tone for the look.

Name: Amber Johnson

Major: International Business and Marketing

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Amber Johnson: My boots are by Steve Madden and my jeans are from DL. My jacket is from WeSC, my glasses are by MOSCOT and the scarf is American Apparel.

CF: Where are the fashion destinations you hope to travel to?

AJ: I would have to say Paris and Milan because they are fashion capitals.

CF: What are your fashion staples?

AJ: Black jeans, tees and motor boots are all fashion staples for me. I really like the cowboy theme as well and paisley scarves are nice accessories.

CF: What is your favorite season to dress for?

AJ: Fall is my favorite fashion season just because I can layer, layer and layer.

How To: A white tee and black denim should be easy to find in your closet. Give your look an edge with a jacket by WeSC and black leather boots from Jessica Simpson. The jacket and boots can be styled with an infinite number of looks so they are definitely worth the splurge. Add flair to your face with clear-framed shades by Ray-Ban. Of course, a neon scarf is necessary to complete the look so try this neon yellow animal print one by Gap. Now you’re ready to tackle the school day in style.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Alana Johnson

Black and white are no longer the only neutral colors around. Now more than ever, colors are popping up in neutral-toned outfits, looking just as chic and timeless as the classics. Army greens, dusty beiges and warm browns add dimension and contrast to an ensemble without clashing or distracting. These shades also subtly bring out the tones of the season and are perfect for transitioning from fall to winter. I spotted this Fashionista wearing a mix of closet staples in an eclectic way that allowed each piece to stand out while creating a cohesive look.

Name: Alana Johnson

Major: Entrepreneurship

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Alana Johnson: I am wearing a vintage Phillip Lim skirt. The army jacket is thrifted and my tank is from Hanes. My boots are from Dolce Vita and my gloves are Marc Jacobs.

CF: Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

AJ: Opening Ceremony is one of my favorite places and also Beacon’s Closet in Brooklyn.

CF: What is a trend you dislike?

AJ: I am over the stud trend. They’re everywhere and it’s overwhelming.

CF: Where do you look for fashion inspiration?

AJ: I like to browse trendland.com. I also get inspiration from animes, especially Ghost in the Shell. Anything relevant to our time inspires my fashion choices.

How To: To get this Fashionista’s trendy fall outfit, try a plaid skirt from ModCloth. The key to this look is to go for a skirt that goes at least past the knee, as it is more appropriate for fall and cooler weather. Grab any plain white tee or tank to layer under this green army jacket from ThreadScene. Keep your neck warm with a gray circle scarf from American Apparel and your toes cozy in black buckle boots from ALDO. Accessorize with fingerless gloves from Michael Kors and a daring hairstyle to pull the look together. By utilizing earth tone colors, your outfit will become infinitely more interesting and vibrant without being too loud or obnoxious. Pairing basics, like a plain cotton tee with a patterned skirt and a solid cover-up, is a great idea that never fails in a casual fashion situation.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Jacqui Oren

Fall is finally taking a hold of the East Coast, so Fashionistas of The Big Apple have to layer up and strap on their boots to brace the damp chill. Despite the dreary clouds and clammy air, I was able to spot a Fashionista opting for cute spotted denim and a flowy blouse rather than the ever-tempting sweatpants and pullover combo.

Name: Jacqui Oren

Major: Graphic Communications

Year: Junior

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Jacqui Oren: My shoes are from Boutique 9. My jacket and jeans are by Free People. The blouse is from Patterson J. Kincaid. The scarf is thrifted. 

CF: Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

JO: I guess Free People is one of my favorite places to shop since I’m wearing a few things from there today. Their clothes are comfortable yet stylish. I also like to shop at thrift shops since it’s an inexpensive way to shop on a student budget. I also sew and alter some things that I find at thrift stores. I really like American Apparel for their basics.   

CF: What are some of your go-to pieces of clothing?

JO: I am a huge fan of jeans. Boots are also another must-have along with an oversized jacket. Adding a scarf works with any outfit and tees or long sleeves are staples.

CF: What will never go out of style?

JO: Button-downs will never go out of style. You can dress them up or down.

CF: What is a trend you dislike?

JO: I try not to be too trendy because it’s impossible to keep up. I’m not a fan of the high-low skirts, especially the sheer ones. I like opaque maxis but I just don’t get the sheer high-low dresses.

How To: The key to attaining Jacqui’s comfortable, chic style is to start off with a fun pair of polka-dotted denim from Paige Denim. To balance out the quirky pants, opt for a simple white blouse by Silence & Noise and a basic black vest by Pencey Standard. Keep warm with a knitted circle scarf by Halogen. Finish off the look with tan booties by Sam Edelman and you’re ready to brave the city chill.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Regina Michelle

Patterned denim is one the trendiest and easiest ways to make an otherwise plain outfit stand out. I spotted this Fashionista wearing these amazing acid jeans that add texture and a mélange of blue hues to her outfit. She toned down the edgy denim with comfortable schoolgirl classics: a bright blue tee, camel-colored cardigan and ultrachic glasses. 

Name: Regina Michelle

Year: First Year Graduate Student at the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Regina Michelle: My shoes are from Timberland. My jeans are fro J.C. Penny and actually my shirt and cardigan are from there also. The necklace is from Forever 21. My glasses are vintage from Florence.

CF: What are some of the fall trends you are looking forward to wearing?

RM: There is no particular trend I want to follow this season. I wear what I feel like wearing. If I had to choose, I like the military style but I do not tend to dress that way. I think classic black and white never goes out of style.  

CF: What are some of your fashion tips for college students on a budget?

RM: I would advise college students to invest in staple pieces that they can wear forever. Make sure you have the basics like a nice cardigan, T-shirts and jeans. Then accessorize to make those staples pop and you can create many different looks for less.

CF: What is the one piece from your closet that you cannot live without?

RM: If I had to pick one item it would be a black cardigan because it goes with anything. Also, it keeps me warm so it actually serves a real purpose besides looking good!

How To: This look is relatively easy to pull off and many retailers sell similar pieces. Starting off with the focal point of the outfit, try these acid wash skinnies from ASOS. This bright blue tee from LAmade pairs perfectly with earth tones and any kind of denim. To keep warm, layer up with this tan cardigan from Gap. Accessorize and add a touch of femininity with this long strand necklace from Forever 21 and these funky spectacles from Warby Parker. Finish off the look with comfortable leather loafers from Frye that never go out of fashion. For this look, the main attraction is the denim so it would be wise to invest in a high quality pair that can withstand years of washes; you can pair it with the staples in your existent wardrobe for years to come.