Author: Melisa Ramos

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: All-American Update

The classic American color combo gets a refresher for spring this year. This week’s Fashionista pairs bright red pants with a classic navy blazer. The look feels pulled together but still fun, especially with her chunky turquoise jewelry.

For a similar look, lets start with the basics. Grab your favorite white tee; I love a loose fitting V-neck like this one from Madewell. Next, find a fab pair of bright red skinny jeans. If you’re the type that splurges on jeans for a great fit and high quality fabrics, these J Brand jeans are perfect for you. If you’d rather not spend a ton on this trendy shade, though, these MANGO jeans are a great option.

Finally, pick the perfect blazer to pull your whole look together. If you ask me, this piece is worth spending a little extra money on. Sure, you can find a navy blazer at Forever 21 but you’ll definitely be compromising on fit and fabric. A well-tailored blazer, on the other hand, will last you a lifetime. This MANGO blazer is sleek and fits like a dream. It may not be cheap but it’s definitely affordable and will be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: A Little Sparkle for Spring

A girly girl like me simply cannot get enough of something with sparkles. Eye-catching beads or sequins instantly amp up the frill factor in any outfit. Take this week’s Fashionista, for example. She paired her gray, beaded tunic with wardrobe staples like denim cutoffs and flats.

First things first, decide if you’re going for an all of sequin or just some subtle sparkle. Tops covered in bright beads should definitely be saved for a night out. This cropped tee from Topshop with be perfect with a pair of skinnies and nude heels for happy hour or clubbing with the girls. I also love this Michael Kors tee but the black on black makes the look a bit more subtle.

This Cecilia tunic dress strikes a nice balance between show stopping and simple. Keeping the sparkles around the neckline draw the eye to your face and the pattern is also a nice touch. The fact that it looks like any little black dress from the back makes your entrance that much more interesting when you finally see the front.

For some office appropriate sequins, I absolutely adore this Miu Miu top. It will definitely cost you a pretty penny but the details along the collar of this classic button-down make it really pop.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Buzzing Like Neon

What’s the quickest way to add a jolt of Spring into your wardrobe? A pop of color, of course! I love the way a does of a bright, neon color adds freshness to a simple look, and this week’s Fashionista seems to have perfected it.

She amps up her basic jeans and tank top look with wooden heels, a straw hat and a stunning, bright orange bag. While I absolutely adore her Michael Kors, there are also some more cost-effective ways to integrate this trend into your wardrobe.

I love a good neon cross-body, so this Steven by Steve Madden is perfect. It comes in some great colors like a rich fuchsia and a bright mint green.

I also really like the way neon trims have been integrated to a classic straw bag. This Rebecca Minkcoff has just the right pop of pink and is nice enough to take from the beach to a lunch with the girls. For a cheaper option, Charlotte Russe has this great beach tote with neon green accents for less than $30!

Still a bit apprehensive about wearing neon? Try a bright wallet instead — like this tangerine one from Folli Follie. It’s high-intensity color is sure to make you smile every time you dig into your purse.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Off-The-Shoulder Sass

With temperatures warming up a bit but still slightly on the cool side, loose fitting layers are becoming a wardrobe staple. This week’s Fashionista is wearing a simple, plum colored sweater and skinny jeans. I love how such a basic look comes together with great accessories and a little bit of attitude.

When it comes to the sweater, opt for something slouchy and comfortable. This chunky knit from Daftbird is the perfect example of a stylish grandma sweater. Victoria’s Secret is also a great go-to for basics like these. I love this bright pullover and it comes in a ton of different colors. Victoria’s Secret also has this abstract sweater, featuring zebra-like stripes.

As for the scarf, I’m all about infinity scarves right now. Though they come in all kinds of patterns and prints, I prefer them in solid, muted colors. For something lightweight, try this navy scarf from Levi’s. If you’re look for something just a bit brighter, I love this light yellow one from Eileen Fisher. My favorites right now are chunky — like this ivory Portolano scarf. Just make sure to pair a heavier scarf with a lighter sweater to avoid too much bulk.

As for shoes, I love this Fashionista’s brown riding boots. They finish off this look perfectly.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Clever Cutouts

When you’re looking to throw an outfit together quickly, it’s essential to have a few go-to pieces that help you look like your tried when you really didn’t. This Fashionista stood out to me this week because she seems to have found where simplicity meets style.

I love the way her blouse incorporates cutouts in a girly way that isn’t vulgar in the slightest. Paired with a simple but well-fitting pair of skinny jeans leaves her looking clean and simple yet stylish.

They key to pulling this look off is to avoid showing too much skin. Leaving a little to the imagination is chic, but baring it all definitely isn’t. Take this Topshop tank, for example. It has a light, dainty feel but the cutout pattern make it just edgy enough.

For something a bit more covered up, I love this coral colored tunic from Urban Outfitters. The triangular cutouts are bigger but fall high enough to keep you covered up. It would pair perfectly tucked into high-waisted shorts and strappy sandals.

Another trend I’m seeing a lot with cutouts is shoulder slits. This royal blue blouse from Charlotte Rouse takes a classic button down to the next level. The slouchy, loose fit and cutouts down the arm give it girly vibe while still feeling effortless.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Sailor Stripes

Nautically inspired looks seem to always be in style. This crisp, clean look is so easy to wear and is the perfect combination of casual but chic. This week’s Fashionista is wearing a simple striped shirt and white linen pants, giving her that effortlessly chic feeling.

From anchors to sails, nothing says nautical quite like horizontal stripes. This Cable & Gauge top is features that classic navy and white striped look. The adorable tie-front also gives it a nice retro vibe. This long sleeve top from Ralph Lauren, one of the most quintessentially nautical brands out there, shows a bit more white than navy as the top this Fashionista is sporting.

For a less obvious look, I love this white and red striped top from Monrow. The slouchy cut makes it look more casual and would pair perfectly with high-waisted distressed denim shorts like these from Planet Blue for an edgier vibe.

If you’re really looking to go for sailing chic, I definitely recommend this ModCloth dress. It plays on the white and navy stripes look while incorporating a rope belt for the perfectly nautical finishing touch.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Delightful Dots

Polka-dots are the perfect way to add a little whimsy to an outfit. I love how this week’s Fashionista incorporated a bold polka-dot top into her look. The saturated teal and the silky fabric are the perfect combination for making such a light and airy look feel high-end and put-together. I also really like the tie front detail and how it gives the look a bit more of a girly feel.

What’s so great about this trend is how many different ways there are to wear it. You can go for big dots, like this Fashionista did, or opt for smaller, more subtle dots instead (depending on the kind of statement you want to make). You can also explore different options when it comes to color, be it for the base of the shirt or for the dots themselves.

To keep things from looking too young and childish, take a tip from this Fashionista and go for something in a silky fabric. This Karen Kane blouse is very similar to the one this week’s Fashionista is wearing but it goes in a more classic direction with the black and white color palette. For something like it at a lower price point, Charlotte Russe has a great white polka-dotted top as well.

For something a bit brighter, this Forever 21 top features white dots on a red top in a great, flowy cut. My personal favorite dots are a bit more abstract though. They don’t blatantly say “I’m wearing polka dots”, but instead offer a subtle dotted pattern that is oh so chic and unexpected. This Chandi and Lia top features white dots on a navy top that seem to mimic the night sky. This ASOS blouse, on the other hand, is very similar to the first white tops we looked at but has dots in more surprising patterns.

CollegeFashionista X American Eagle Outfitters Advertorial: Spring Break in Miami

American Eagle Outfitters and Spring Break seem to be a match made in heaven. Just like the carefree days of spring breaking, American Eagle Outfitters clothes are perfectly effortless and fit seamlessly into any wardrobe. They make the best casual basics, from denim shorts to slouchy tees. They're comfortable yet stylish and isn't that what every Fashionista is looking for? That’s why your suitcase should be packed full of American Eagle Outfitters if you plan on coming to Miami for Spring Break.

Fashion: People dream of spending their spring break in Miami and I feel so lucky to live here year round. While sun and sand are fabulous, it’s also a place where fashion pushes boundaries. From the casual looks to powerful prints, Miamians are always looking to make some kind of impression.
Today I’m wearing a look that’s perfect for a weekend afternoon. I love pairing comfortable basics with something unexpected and in this case that means sparkles. I’m absolutely obsessed with these American Eagle Sparkle Loafers. Not only are they on trend for this season but they also add the perfect amount of pizzazz to any look. As for the white jeggings, they’re a total Miami must-have. They’re so crisp and clean looking, while adding the perfect amount of sleekness to a casual outfit. Miami fashion is also about wearing light layers. I love how this Lace Dolman T won’t add too much bulk and still features subtle details.

Shopping: When it comes to shopping in Miami, there’s no shortage of places to choose from. I love shopping boutiques for unique trendy items so for me, the South Miami/Sunset area is great. There are a ton of great little shops around every corner where you can find everything from unique tunics to fabulous designer consignment pieces.

When it comes to more high end shopping, I love the Village of Merrick Park. They have everything from Nordstrom and Neiman’s to DVF and Gucci. My favorite store there though is definitely Koko & Palenki. It has a boutique feel but offers a great inventory of today’s hottest designers.

Entertainment: One of the obvious draws to visiting Miami is hitting the beach. The crystal clear water is always sparkling and so are the lights in all of the nightclubs. The South Beach club scene is one-of-a-kind. With world famous clubs like Mansion, LIV and Cameo you definitely won’t be disappointed by the sheer opulence you’ll experience. You will, however, pay up for drinks and cover though so come prepared and dressed to kill.
For a more laid-back college bar scene, The Grove is the place to be. There are almost a dozen bars in a 3-block radius, all of which constantly have drink specials and won’t charge you a cover.

Food: While you’re shopping to your heart’s content in the Sunset area, you’ll find a variety of great restaurants to stop at too. Akashi is a cozy spot to visit if you’re looking for sushi and a quiet atmosphere. I practically live at RA Sushi Bar for its fabulous appetizers and great drinks with a fun, loungy feel.

Miracle Mile in Downtown Coral Gables also has a bunch of great spots in one area. Anacapri is my favorite for authentic Italian food and a romantic date night, whereas, Season’s 52 is best for fresh, seasonal fare. I can’t finish a discussion of Miami food trends without mentioning food trucks though. They’re always on the move so I can’t tell you where to find them, but if you follow @miamifoodtrucks on Twitter you’ll be able to track them down. Ms. Cheesious, Cuban Cube and Sugar Rush are among my favorites and are definitely worth the hunt.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Pop in Pink

I know I posted about blazers a few weeks ago but I really can’t get enough of them. It’s such a sleek look and I love how easily they make an outfit feel put together. With the color-blocking trend in full force, I’m absolutely obsessed with bold blazers right now. Take this Fashionista, for example. Who wouldn’t have spotted her and her bright pink blazer walking down the hallways? She clearly isn’t afraid to make a statement — and neither should you be.

Looking at the pink options alone, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking to emulate this Fashionista’s look, this cropped blazer from Charlotte Russe is perfect. Though hers is from Zara, the length and hue are dead on. For something a bit more saturated and dressy, I’m obsessed with this tuxedo blazer from Victoria’s Secret. The deep color and black lapel make it great to pair with everything from skinny jeans to a little black dress. On the lighter side, try this rosy pink jacket from Forever 21 — it's the perfect combination of sleek and laid back. The cut echoes a blazer while still falling loosely enough to keep you from feeling too stuffy. But I do still love a more retro-looking, double-breasted option. This ASOS blazer has a cool menswear vibe while the girly shade and gold details give it the perfect amount of sass.

Don't think you have to limit yourself to pink alone. You can take this bright blazer trend in any direction you like. I love some of the ones I've seen in royal blue and bright red, as well.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: The Long and Short of It

I’m saying it again — the lack of cold weather leaves most Fashionistas craving boot looks that won’t make them sweat.

This week’s Fashionista is sporting a great boot look with a pair of denim cutoffs and a bright, loose-fitting tee. I love her over-the-knee boots and how the light color and slouchy fit make them so effortlessly chic.

To pull off this look, keep the look casual and making sure none of the pieces are too tight on you. Snug-fitting boots or tees with short shorts like these can easily take this look from trendy to less than ladylike — a definite no-no in my book.

Starting from her top: I’m obsessed with the oversized tees from Madewell; they’re loose fitting but oh so comfortable. From saturated solids like this indigo shirt to sailor stripes, they have a ton of great options.

When it comes to the shorts for this look distressed is best. Like the top, they help keep the look casual and effortless. I love these dark Levi’s and these cuffed shorts from Free People.

Last, but not least, it really is all about the right boots. While I adore a good leather boot, I would definitely opt for a suede like this Fashionista did when wearing shorts. These Newport News boots are chic and simple and I’m absolutely obsessed with these Carlos Santana boots with their gorgeous stud details.