Author: Kelsey Carbaugh

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Better To Be Bright

It is no secret that the spring and summer trends involve bright pops of color in all forms of neon, understated accessories and effortless casual looks. When cruising the streets of downtown Seattle or entering just about any retail fashion store you can, you obviously see this trend apparent on the young college generation. I love this time a year when casual wear gets a fun pop of color in light of the shining sun. When I came across this effortless, casual and chic Fashionista, I knew she was ready to take on the movement of the bright styles. This Fashionista totally rocked her light wash skinny jeans. I normally am all about the darker washes, but currently I am obsessed with 7 For All Mankind skinny and light wash denim style. Her bright pop of color in her fun cropped tank is perfect for any occasion. This tank can go with skinny jeans, shorts or even paired with a linen blazer to dress it up a bit if you do not want to bear the shoulders. Free People has so many options of fun tanks just like this one to spruce up your wardrobe with a bohemian summer fling look.

This Fashionista completes her outfit in accessories that are understated and fit well with her choice of an effortless look. An assortment of small bracelets and silver rings are a delicate choice of easy jewelry to add to her outfit. She also is repping my favorite kind of shades, Ray Bans, of course! They look amazing on her face shape and I have always been a fan of the brand. This Fashionista also has the ever-popular sling side purse. It’s just the right size for a night out to the bars, or a quick shopping trip while avoiding lugging around a large tote. Marc Jacobs is my favorite because of the minimalism and color options the collection provides. Last but not least, I have to note that I just love that her hair is down and has a natural wave; she truly eludes that she is from the beaches of California.

Spotted: Isabel Marant’s spring/summer 2012 gives any Fashionista inspiration to rock a bohemian style!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Belted For Break

Can you believe how fast the school year went by this year? It seems like just yesterday Fashionistas were trying to adjust their fashion to the holidays and the snow. Whether you graduated and now are entering your definition of the real world, or you’re an undergrad experiencing summer vacation, it’s a few weeks in and so far the summer weather has us racing to get our warm weather essentials. This summer is going to be all about how you pop your choice of color. This Fashionista’s pop of royal blue is a gorgeous color for her, and the dress is a perfect simple silhouette. This Fashionista layered in such a way that she will be sophisticated for the daytime but can ditch the blazer for a night out on the town. I still am loving the menswear trend and think blazers are the perfect replacement for a cardigan or heavier jacket when you want to dress up your look and still cover up, and there are many designers adding their twist to the classic piece.

This Fashionista knows how to accessorize her look in a fabulous way. Her thick strapped white heels are fun for the upcoming summer month and add a little pizzazz to her sophisticated look. She decked out her arms in bracelets and bangles of all forms as well, which we know have been a Fashionista favorite the last few weeks; the more the merrier! Her bold colored dress was belted with a skinny brown belt to add a curve in her summer frock, an addition that can give you a totally different look to a simple dress. This Fashionista simply looks gorgeous all around and her use of bold color and blocking will be seen everywhere in the coming months and is a trend that seems to be not going anywhere for now!

Spotted: J. Mendel’s spring/summer 2012 ready-to-wear collection is full of color blocking and summer dress inspirations!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Pretty In Your Pearls

Bring out the pearls and the sweet spring dresses because the sunshine just may be here to stay for longer than we thought was possible. Amidst the excitement for summer vacation, this Fashionista looked ready to say goodbye to the books and hello to spring and summer fashion. This Fashionista looks absolutely radiant and put together in every way possible. With her nautical-inspired color choices, she totally had me feeling her exuding class. Everyone loves a simple printed shift dress or spring frock! A dress that is easy to throw on with anything and is cute for any occasion? Count me in. You can wear your dress like this Fashionista or choose a loose button-up and belt it with wedges or heels for a dressier occasion. Versatile items are a Fashionista favorite, so I love when you can transform a piece to a totally different style. A plain cardigan or button-up is a cute topper to make this dress casual.

To keep her outfit simple and sweet, she rocked a pair of fun, timeless white flats. They are unique and are accented with a little bow tie, which perfectly complements her daytime chic style. I have always been a fan of Tory Burch, and she happens to have amazing flats that come in white. However, one of my favorite things about this Fashionista’s outfit is her adorable knotted pearl necklace. Can you think of anything that better dresses up an outfit than pearls? The long strands are fun because you can wrap and knot them or double layer them for a shorter, more sophisticated look. It’s the little details and touch of dress up that can take your outfit up a notch, and pearls do just that trick. I also have to note I love this Fashionista’s hair when it is down and wavy, but this type of outfit could really looks adorable with a high bun. It might be a fun look to try! This Fashionista really looks effortless and elegant, and she chose great pieces that can be transformed from day to night in no time.

Spotted: Victoria Beckham’s spring/summer 2012 line totally mimics the idea of minimal but gorgeous with her simple silhouetted dresses!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Bohemian Breathe of Spring

So I may be just a little too excited with the fact that the Fashionista’s are definitely out in full swing these last weeks of the semester in Pullman. With the weather warming to comfortable and even hot temperatures, the moods are lightening and summer vacation just around the corner. We’re going to need to prepare our wordrobes for a Fabulous Fashionista summer. This Fashionista totally captured my vision for the vogue inspirations I will bemost definitely be attributing to my wardrobe this summer. Cool, classic, and bohemian, a perfect mixture to summarize the reflections of the break from school ahead.

Maxi skirts still seem to be a evident Fashionista staple at Washington State and I love how the choice of color is lingering away from plain black to lighter hues, and I have even come across some prints, which is my new favorite bold Fashionista move! This Fashionista’s tan colored maxi can be cool and chic for a spring concert on the grass or dressed to kill paired with a blazer and some fancy jewelry. I love seeing the trend of longer silhouetted skirts come to head, especially printed ones! I also adore her casual approach to her outfit with a vintage looking jean button-up, which I’ve mentioned before, as a great spring must-have. It’s perfect for throwing over a white shirt like this Fashionista did to dress up any kind of minimal outfit. This Fashionista’s choice of totally bohemian inspired jewelry was captivating and perfect forspring. She did not just stick to one type of bracelet either. She mixed a giant wooden bangle with beads, braids and even silver pieces creating an assortment fit for the bohemian Fashionista. I think we will be seeing a lot of heavily covered arms with magnificent bracelets this spring and summer and I am not complaining! Bangles are clearly everywhere. This Fashionista really just captures what fashion is all about, a few great staple pieces paired with the perfect, fun and mixed accessories and you have an effortless look complete.

Spotted: alice + olivia Fall 2012 runway gives Fashionista’s fabulous ideas on how to rock your printed skirts!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Chic And Classic

It seems the sun in Pullman has definitely brought out the Fashionistas in full form as they escape from their bundled-up attire. On this sunny day, I hit the Fashionista jackpot! This CollegeFashionista exudes beauty and has conquered the college fashion secret all of us strive to achieve: mixing designer with bargain finds. You would never be able to tell, but this Fashionista is rocking everything from designer pieces to vintage jean shorts she created on her own. Head to toe she is simply fabulous. I have to note I love her hair pulled back as it totally looks chic and highlights her outfit. I think Fashionistas underestimate the effect that a minimal hairstyle can have on their overall appeal. This Fashionista is beautiful in all forms.

Everything she paired together was perfect. Her simple zip top from Canadian born store Aritzia paired with a sheer white button-up from Nordstrom was a combination that was simple but sexy. Add the faux fur vest from Nordstrom (I am downright obsessed with this), and you have a recipe that makes any Fashionista proud. She paired her amazing faux fur vest and top with even more creative jean shorts. It’s so easy to do; head to your local Goodwill or consignment store and craft an old pair of jeans into trendy high-waitsed shorts. You can wear them casually with a T-shirt, or dress them up like this Fashionista! It also seems as though Jeffrey Campbell shoes are the brand of choice at Washington State University as she is rocking the Lita’s flawlessly. Not to mention, she pieced her jewelry exactly how a chic Fashionista should. Her drop dangle earrings and large stone rings from H&M totally prove that this Fashionista can mix luxury and bargain and still be absolutely gorgeous! It is all a game of balancing your amazing designer pieces and mixing them with the fast paced trend. There is nothing not to love about this Fashionista!

Spotted: Rachel Zoe's fall 2012 line shows off how to wear your faux fur in fabulous style!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Bangles, Shades and Shoes, Oh My!

The great thing about being an Apparel Merchandising, Design and Textiles major is that we get to know so much about fellow Fashionistas that share the same love of fashion as us. This Fashionista is one of my all-time favorite Washington State University girls because she rocks a unique and gorgeous style. She looks like an “accessory goddess” in this outfit that she perfected. Head to toe this Fashionista has everything we could adore in one outfit. Big and fabulous shades are a Pullman essential. Each Fashionista has a different style they prefer, but I happen to love her choice of the big and dark frames. Whether you rock shades from Forever 21 or go exclusive with your Ray-Ban sunglasses, let’s be honest, we all need a fabulous pair. She accessorized over her gorgeous chiffon blouse and peach top with a mixture of necklaces. Her arms were decked out in a combination of bangles and topped off with my favorite, Michael Kors. Michael Kors' watches are one of my favorite watches. Her choice of ceramic white is perfect for this bold and beautiful Fashionista! Michael Kors has a range of colors and styles available for you to find your favorite style and fit.

Last but not least, this Fashionista knows how to work her bottom half. Unadorned black tights and black shorts with a simple belt are the best way to balance out the amazing accessories she already has on. But seriously, can any of us not notice the extraordinary pair of Jeffrey Campbell shoes on her feet? As a former shoe intern, I can definitely say this pair is a winning pair; the Lita is amazing. Jeffrey Campbell shoes are really a great brand that has established themselves with quality and absolute fun. A Fashionista will not go wrong with these Jeffrey Campbell booties, as I am officially obsessed! I have to say, this Fashionista always reflects class, perfection and joy, and these are three reasons I truly love Washington State University Fashionistas, as they never disappoint!

Spotted: Michael Kors is one of my all time favorite watch designers; the runway always shows off these watches as an amazing accessory to any style!  

 

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Leopard To New Levels

When a true Fashionista enters your presence, you just know. Not too mention, lucky for us at Washington State University we have more then just a few on campus. This Fashionista is one of my all-time favorites; I mean, can you blame me? It was the ultimate entrancing leopard piece I have ever witnessed. I am not sure my world could be more complete than being in the amazing company of a Fashionista who was working the leopard leggings. Prints and patterns seem to be the entire rave this fall, and that is just perfectly fine with me. Betsey Johnson’s designs are based upon the funky and fabulous style that these leggings emulate, and they totally captivated my attention immediately. Finding a fun pair of leggings is a great way to take your fit to the next level, and don't only accessorize, but be fabulous! It’s also a spin on the everyday black or blue jeans or plain leggings to add a pop of fun.

This Fashionista’s sunny day style not only consisted of these perfect printed leggings, but she could not have paired it better then she did. She kept her look within the same color pallet with a brick colored buttoned-up that’s breezy and perfect for a little sunshine. This Fashionista also warmed up with a classic black cardigan that is perfect for balancing out the color. Last but not least, her adorable dark brown combat boots loosely tied together her edgy and funky look. This is the season to be anything but ordinary; so adding color and being bold is definitely in. I’ve been saying it for weeks, but big jewelry and fun printed patterns are the way to go for spring, and I know I won't be disappointed by Washington State University Fashionistas as they are always looking their finest!

Spotted: Betsey Johnson's spring 2012 runway collection is everything bright, printed and fabulous that you can imagine, including amazing leggings like the ones on this week's Fashionista!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Fun, Chunk and Funk!

There are a few trends that I just love on a Fashionista no matter what season it is, or how a Fashionista chooses to wear it. Two of these very special trends happen to be faux fur and a great piece of fun chunky jewelry. Please tell me what Fashionista doesn’t love to wear a little faux fur to spice up their outfit? Especially when spring has still not quite sprung here at Washington State University and we are still waiting for a glimpse of sun! Adding faux fur is a cozy touch to any style, which is the first thing that caught my eye about this amazingly accessorized and chic Fashionista. This Fashionista knew exactly how to put together a look that mixes classic chic with a little touch of glam. This Fashionista keeps the bottom half simple with black jeans and dark knee-high riding boots. The top ensemble is a great example of fun and fashionable layering. The light wash jean button-up is adorable and is a great classic top that can dress up your casual daytime outfit. She topped her button-up with an amazing faux fur vest with gold accents and completed the look with a sleek black trench that could transcend from day to night. A versatile coat that can be dressy or casual is key to making a Fashionista’s life easier.

What I really loved was that she combined all these different styles together then topped it off with bold and funky jewelry that really dressed up her daytime outfit. She wore a simple beaded bracelet on one hand that was subtle and pretty and rocked a fearless and fun chunky necklace. In this case, more is definitely more! This Fashionista’s necklace had a mixture of stones and color, which made for a bold addition to her outfit that I loved. The bold and brave always stand out in fashion, and I can definitely dig it!

Spotted: Missoni's resort 2012 collection knows how to mix fun and fabulous jewelry with bold fashions you are bound to fall in love with!

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Spring Has Sprung

Spring break has been lingering in the air for weeks and it has finally arrived. Whether you are spending the majority of the days on the beaches of Cabo San Lucas, dancing the night away in Las Vegas or simply spending a weekend at home, every Fashionista has got spring and sun on her mind. I promise the beautiful spring will return to Pullman soon, but meanwhile, this Fashionista already has the amazing upcoming trends in mind. This Fashionista’s gorgeous floral chiffon-like top is spring-inspired and absolutely simple and sweet. I am completely loving all the floral prints this season and if you are not one to rock the popular floral pants, this is the best alternative. She paired her top with a touch of a vintage look with the light washed vest on top, which is a great pairing of separates. Complete with perfect year-round classic styled boots.

When you have such a gorgeous and detailed top, what better to pair it with than timeless accessories! This Fashionista’s subtle jewelry was just the right thing to complete her flawless outfit. Turquoise jewelry always seems to be my favorite as it adds a pop of color to everything and mixes and matches well with just about any outfit. I love the large turquoise stone ring; it’s a pretty fashion item that can be worn everyday to add the extra jazz. Her large gold bangle bracelet is also simply perfect. Her bracelet accents the outfit without being too fancy or over the top. Accessories can be wild and stand out, but the classic and everyday subtle pieces makes for just the right amount of bling to an already dazzling dud. Spring has sprung, Fashionistas, and we are just getting started for the amazing season that is to come!

Spotted: Blue is the new hue, and not just in your rings! Balenciaga proved this to be true by working the runway in fabulous blue fashion.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: A Scarf for Every Occasion

I may have spoken too soon about entertaining the ideas of spring Fashions at Washington State, as it seems the snow has graced us non-stop once again. It is a disappointment for now for just about anyone. Although our upcoming spring fashions are on hold for the time being a little snow does not stop a true Fashionista from strutting her stuff. The runways this year had us drooling over classic military inspired looks. From separates to bold pieces this trend was just about everywhere! When I saw this Fashionista’s green-buttoned coat, it totally had a touch of this craze that I loved. This coat looked great with her all black ensemble and she accented it perfectly with her scarf and subtle jewelry.

This Fashionista made herself stand out within a sea of North Face jackets and leggings. What really popped out loud to me was that she took the simple colors of winter and fall by mixing the light green and the majority of neutral black for a casual combination. However she brings together casual with pop and then added a gorgeous and captivating burst of color with her red scarf. It absolutely elates me that bright colors are still on trend because I think it adds a wow factor to just about any look. I think a bright pop is just what this Fashionista needs to add to her adorable outfit. Scarves are going to be a hot spring trend; whether they are chiffon, knit, or silk, that little color addition that they provide is going to be an absolute hit! Scarves can be the portion of your outfit that add that one extra glamorous piece that changes everything!

Spotted: Alice + Olivia fall 2012 runway show gives Fashionista's everywhere examples on how to pop your color!