Norah Besack – CollegeFashionista

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Faux Glasses For The Masses

An appointment with your Optometrist is no longer necessary to rock the latest trends found with glasses. Say good-bye to those terrible dilating drops, until your next appointment of course, and hello to faux glasses. Faux glasses have really taken off, especially with the popularity of the College Professor trend. These glasses are an accessory trend enjoyed by Fashionistas and Fashionistos alike, which is always great. This seasons wide-rimmed glasses, very reminiscent of Atticus Finch from To Kill A Mockingbird, have been the must have style for the season.

This Fashionista is the epitome of chic in her dark toned wardrobe. She pairs her black leggings and flats with a gorgeous knit top featuring embellished shoulders. She also adds even more texture to her look by topping it off with a black fur vest. However, what really ties in her ensemble is her wide-rimmed glasses. The black frames are the perfect size for her face shape and really polish off her entire look.
Glasses, whether they are faux or prescribed, can really be considered one of those perfect accessories. If you don’t feel like doing a full beauty routine, just throw on some glasses, put your hair in a top-knot and voila-instant chic. Celebrities are notorious for this when they want to look artsy and dark aka their make-up artist is running late. Another great quality of faux glasses is their price points, which are generally under twenty dollars. Fashionistas and Fashionistos who need to wear glasses for actual seeing purposes, like myself, especially love the faux glasses trend. It allows us to stay looking stylish and current, while alsod also providing a great excuse to shopping to update your current pair. It's a win-win for all!

Spotted: Dries Van Noten features a spin on the wide-rimmed glasses for their spring 2012 runway show by incorporating neon tangerine hues.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Raving About Ruffles

Ruffles were seen cascading down the spring 2012 runways, setting the stage for romantic looks with flowing appeal. This classic trend always seems to find its way back into our closets- which I embrace every time. Ruffles this season were modernized by incorporating the new trends. For example, Rachel Zoe’s looks from her spring 2012 show featured a white dress with metallic geometric shapes dress that has cascading ruffles on the sleeves.

I immediately coveted this Fashionista’s ruffled trench coat when I spotted it on the Marist Campus. The tailoring of the jacket is perfect as well as the mustard green hue, another great color for spring/summer. The back of the trench displays cascading ruffles, giving the entire outfit a feminine touch. She also pairs this trench with a flowy blouse which even further emphasizes her girly spring look. To top off the ensemble, she adds blue denim skinny jeans, black patent pointed flats and of course sunnies inspired by the classics Ray Ban Way Farers. This Fashionistas outfit is classic and feminine as well as versatile. She could wear this to class or hop on a train to New York City for the day, the possibilities are endless.

This summer while all of us Fashionistas are interning, we will find ourselves trying to balance being stylish but at the same time professional. A great way to find harmony between the two is incorporating ruffles. They are a great way to be on trend while still being office appropriate. This Fashionista’s ruffled trench coat is a great example of a classic and trendy piece appropriate for all aspects of our chic lives.

Spotted: Alexander McQueen incorporated ruffles into many of the spring 2012 looks, giving undertones of feminity throughout the collection.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Terrific Tresses

When I was walking to class, I instantly noticed this Fashionista’s fabulous multi-colored hair. Incorporating pops of color into your hair has been a big trend for spring 2012 and will definitely be carried over into the summer months. If you’re not too keen on actually dying your hair, try hair chalking. Lauren Conrad gives and amazing tutorial regarding this non-permanent hair coloring technique on her blog. Hair chalking allows you to experiment with different colors without the threat of damaging your hair.

This Fashionista’s ensemble exudes a bohemian flair with a twist of edginess. She perfectly paired her gorgeous tribal printed baggy sweater with flared dark denim bottoms. She also reps her hometown by wearing a stunning necklace with charms outlining her favorite state. Similar necklaces can be purchased at Etsy, which would be a perfect for gift for any Fashionista/Fashionisto. To top off her look, her multicolored tresses bring little pops of color that make the outfit right on trend. A great way for this Fashionista to rock the multi-colored hair look is to pull it back into a top knot. This is a great way to showcase the different hues in her hair, while still remaining chic. This Fashionista could rock a terrific top knot paired with a jumpsuit, wedges and a bold clutch for a more sophisticated look.

Personally, I am a huge admirer of Fashionistas who incorporate different colors into their hair, but I have always been afraid to of the possible damage that could come from the dyeing process. However, the hair-chalking technique allows me to try out different shades as frequently as I please, without any harmful side effects. Dream come true? Yes!

Spotted: Thakoon incorporates multi-colored hair with the models final looks for their spring 2012 runway show.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Boastful About Boating Shoes

A huge trend that has been seen on the feet of Fashionistas and Fashionistos alike is the boating shoe. This classic footwear has moved away from its previous preppy status and has transformed into a trendy and modern piece. Sperry Topsiders has incorporated this spring season’s hot colors such as tangerine into their boat shoe lines, as well as delicate floral patterns, chic cheetah prints and so on. The forever fabulous and permanent style crush Blake Lively has been spotted rocking a pair of navy leather Sperry's boating shoes for a chic nautical look. Boating shoes are also an excellent alternative to flats and sandals if you are seeking comfortable footwear for a long day ahead of you.

This Fashionista rocks crisp white boating shoes, another hot spring 2012 color, paired with a green zip up hoodie and dark denim skinnies. This subtle color pallet allows her bohemian embellished back pack (which I died over) to stand out and be the focus of her outfit. Her look is cool and comfortable with the perfect amount of flair and trend.

I highly suggest incorporating boating shoes into your wardrobe. They’re such a great way to really polish off a look, while still having an element of comfort. In my eyes, that situation is ideal. Another way you can rock the boating shoes look is paired with a fun high-low hem maxi dress, denim jacket, aviator sunnies and a bold colored clutch. This look can be worn day or night, and forecasts clear skies when it comes to comfort.

Spotted: Designer Karen Walker makes boating shoes look natutical chic on the runways by paring them with flirty skirts and tops.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Nuanced Neutrals

Spring is always notorious for having bold, bright color palettes that seem to light up brick and mortar retail stores after a long dreary winter. Even though I am a fan of these eye-catching hues, they sometimes can get a little overwhelming. This is where our beloved neutrals come into play such as grays, whites and blacks. If you’re stuck in between wanting a little color, but you don’t necessarily want to look like a Crayola Crayon Box of 64 (which was coveted by as all as young Fashionistas/Fashionistos) then I have a solution for you: navy. Navy is a great way to add a little bit of color to any ensemble, while still technically staying within the neutral tones. Another bonus about navy is that it was rocked all over the spring 2012 runways. Pantone's Fashion Color Report for Spring 2012 dubbed navy one of the top colors for this upcoming season. Designer Tory Burch incorporates navy shades all throughout her Spring 2012 collection that accent her modern silhouettes and trends.

This Fashionista does not wear her navy wrap sweater naively, for she is right on trend for class. The tie-dyed aspect of her light outerwear, as well as her little P.O.C. (Pop of Color) periwinkle tee shirt, is modern and fresh for spring. She is the epitome of effortless chic with the addition of her leather boots and accessories. The tie-dyed wrap sweater is also a versatile outerwear piece for the warmer months. This Fashionista can try pair this piece with a belted maxi dress for an ensemble with bohemian flair.

Spotted: Designer Derek Lam plays with the Navy shade in a similar tie-dye pattern featured on this Fashionista.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Crop Tops Hit the Spot

There was a surplus amount of models bearing their midriff on the spring 2012 runways, making crop tops a super must for the season. These navel focused tops have come a long way since their first appearance in the beloved 90s. Images of Kelly Kapowski, my forever idol from Saved by the Bell and also a great 90s icon, rocking a crop top always comes to mind. The updated crop tops this season feature new trends and silhouettes that can be easily incorporated into spring and summer wardrobes. Betsey Johnson does a modern take on a peasant top by using a tangerine hue and long flowing sleeves. Whereas Charlotte Ronson plays a ruffled navy trim on a bralette inspired crop top. Crop tops for spring 2012 also come in different lengths that fit any Fashionistas comfort level. For example, retailer Urban Outfitters sells a crop top featuring a high low seam that can be worn for a more modest look.

This Fashionista plays with the ever popular bohemian trend by paring her knotted black crop top with a flowy patterned maxi skirt. She tops off her look with fun strappy sandals and layered jewelry making her outfit look put together yet comfortable. The black crop knotted crop top is also a great transitional item for a night out. This Fashionista can pair the top with some fitted white denim skinnies, wedged heels and bold neon jewelry for a perfect on trend ensemble. Crop tops are also great beach cover ups, allowing Fashionistas to add another beach accessory to the list. I mean who says sandy beaches can’t be a runway?

Spotted: Alexander Wang plays with the crop trop trend by incoporating leather and sheer materials.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Neccessary Neon

Neon was lighting up the spring 2012 runways, making it to this season’s top trend list. These fluorescent shades make a bright and bold statement, refreshing our wardrobes from the long winter months. Designer Jason Wu used a gorgeous yellow neon on one of his classic ball gown silhouettes, giving the dress an edgy appeal. Whereas designer Peter Som incorporated the neon shades into a color blocked top.

This Fashionista rocks the neon trend by accessorizing her smartphone with a bright neon case. Who says protective cases can’t be stylish and on trend? Especially since we all have our phones glued to our hands therefore making them a permanent accessory to all outfits. The pop of color from the neon phone case plays off her mint green sunglasses, another big color trend for this spring season. This Fashionista, or should I say Maxxinista, also found her adorable neon case at T.J. Maxx which is fantastic!

Pops of neon are a great way to play with this color trend without looking like a highlighter. Marc by Marc Jacobs offers a chic neon enameled ring, which is a great way to incorporate the trend into your own personal closet. Designer Betsey Johnson, who is always a fan of bright colors, offers a fabulous neon yellow pump that will definitely turn heads in any situation. If you are feeling more confident with the neon color palate, Urban Outfitters offers a gorgeous neon turquoise dress that would be perfect for a night out on Spring Break! Neon is a great way to add color and personality to an outfit, which is always on trend.

Spotted: Rodarte illuminates their spring 2012 runway by using the modern neon shades.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Terrifically Tribal

I immediately had bag envy when I spotted this Fashionista’s tribal print satchel. Tribal prints are a must have for this spring and can be seen on apparel, accessories and shoes alike. This trend has been super hot from season to season, however designers are constantly thinking of new ways to reinvent these exotic prints. This spring, designers are using larger more exaggerated prints while incorporating the big colors for spring 2012 such as cotton candy, cyan, putty beige and lavender. Designer Donna Karen showcased her take on tribal print in classic natural hues such as browns and tans.

There are many ways for any Fashionista or Fashionisto to incorporate tribal print into their wardrobe. You can wear natural colors having the tribal print be the focus of the outfit, as seen with our Fashionista. She compliments her strapless grey dress, brown boots and tan scarf with her bold tribal print bag. The bag is a great and trendy statement piece for spring that can also be carried into the summer months. Another way to rock a tribal print is to match your ensemble to the bright tones in the print itself. Singer M.I.A. is notorious for mixing bold, bright tribal prints allowing her to stand out in any crowd.

The tribal print trend shows no signs of slowing down and will continue to be a must have for the warmer months. A great way to incorporate this trend is through accessories such as our Fashionista’s bag. Polyvore gives a great selection of tribal print accessories that will be on anyone’s wish list.

Spotted: Burberry Prorsum using tribal prints on their menswear button-downs.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Sunnies For Spring

Sunglasses made a huge statement on the spring 2012 runways this year, making them a necessary accessory for all Fashionistas and Fashionistos. Designers gave us a wide variety to choose from such as oversized and chunky, sleek cat eye or rounded gradient lenses. alice + olivia featured sunny shades on their models in almost every look. Their sunglasses matched the line with their bright and over sized pops of color. Designer Tory Burch’s sunglasses featured the cat eye shape, giving her looks a coy and flirty nature. Rounded gradient lenses were spotted on ADAM’s spring 2012 runway, displaying a tonal look that made the collection chic and sophisticated.

This Fashionista’s over sized, tortuous shell sunglasses accentuate her outfit beautifully. A fitted jacket over a ruffled dress is a perfect way to introduce your spring wardrobe without freezing to death walking to class. Her leather bag featuring delicate cut outs is to die for as well. However, without her sunglasses the look would feel incomplete. She follows the rounded gradient lenses trend, as seen in Yigal Azrouel’s spring/summer 2012 line.

Feeling the need for some retail therapy? Why not purchase a pair of sunglasses featuring one of the trends from the spring 2012 runways. A fresh new pair of sunnies can instantly update your wardrobe making it look current and fresh. If you want to purchase a new pair of sunglasses without breaking the bank try looking at H&M. They have great price points for on trend merchandise.

Spotted: Designer Anna Sui’s spring 2012 collection featuring cat eye sunglasses.

ACCESSORIES REPORT: Another Way To Ombré

The shaded graduation of color tones, better known as ombré, has been a beauty trend that Fashionistas (including myself) have absolutely loved. Originally, the ombré trend was executed through the use of different hair dyes giving an appearance of cascading color. It only seemed fitting that the ombré trend would trickle down to our manicures which was recently spotted by a fellow Style Guru on this Fashionista. Actress Drew Barrymore, who is known for her bohemian style, has been seen rocking the ombré trend in her wavy locks for quite some time.

To my delight, this Fashionista utilizes the ombré trend in a fresh and new way, which will hopefully elongate the lifespan of the style. The jacket of this Fashionista displays cascading shades of browns and tans, all flowing gracefully into one another. The use of ombré on clothing and accessories has endless possibilities. This is especially great for the Fashionistas that have loved the beauty trend but didn’t want the permanence of the hair color. You can buy items with ombré patterns already styled in, as seen in this scarf by Alexander McQueen, or you can do ombré your own way. One example of doing ombré your own way is through layering necklaces. Purchase three or more layering necklaces, at different lengths and hues of the same shade. Layer these necklaces according to shade, whether it be with the darkest shade first and down or vice versa. Through these different necklaces, you can create an ombré effect that can be perfectly incorporated into any ensemble.

Spotted: Designer Sonia Rykiel uses the ombré effect throughout her spring 2012 collection.