Author: Olivia Cleary

Tips for Dressing Like a Trendy Tourist

Being a tourist in a new city can be a roller coaster of emotions, starting from being a nervous wreck to bouncing off the walls with excitement. New cities have so much to offer with so little time to take everything in, so here are some tips on dressing in the best way to make your trip a bit less stressful.

Warm weather? That means endless options for what to wear. A simple shopping trip means that a sundress and booties would allow for both comfort and style. If you are not a dress person, warm weather still allows the possibilities of shorts, cute tops, and rompers. If you want to add more spunk, you can throw on some flashy bright jewelry to contrast the colors of your outfit. Not only will that add more pop, but it will also bring together the entire look.

If your trip is a little more distance-oriented, be sure to wear shoes that are easy to walk in. It is common to think that you can rock the super cute pair of platform heels, but the truth is, if you are walking for hours on end, it’s best to keep those babies at home. Sandals and flats pair nicely, and more importantly they won’t kill your feet in the process.

Accessories, accessories, accessories. Nothing catches the eye like show-stopping accessories to add a little more glam. Grab a big floppy hat or a cute crossbody bag and be prepared to conquer the world. On bright, sunny days, a pair of flashy shades will  protect your eyes and also draw attention not only to your outfit but to your actual face.

When being a tourist in a new town, it is important to not overpack while sightseeing. Not only will you get tired of carrying everything, but it also leaves less room to carry all of the new goodies that you could be purchasing. Try and bring only the essentials, like a phone, a wallet, your favorite lipstick, and a camera for all of the amazing photos you are going to take. If you have to bring a bag or backpack, remember to try and pack lightly—you will thank me later on this one.

The most important tip to remember when being a tourist in a new area is, above all, to have fun. Take advantage of the opportunities that you have been given to see a new place. Appreciate the various different styles, cultures, and settings that you are exposed to and make them yours. Come back from your trip being a more knowledgeable version of yourself.

How do you dress for summer trips? Let me know in the comments below!

STYLE ADVICE: The Thrills of Thrifting

Everyone wants to make heads turn when they walk out of the house every morning, but a majority of people cannot always afford the expenses of doing so while being in college. What better way to add a little vintage flair to your attire than checking out your local thrift shops for new finds and donations.

Thrifting is an easy way to add new pieces to your wardrobe and try out new styles without breaking the bank or your budget. The process of thrifting allows for one to use it as a platform for other fashion, there has to be a starting point somewhere, and what better way to jump out of the box than by jumping into racks of great deals.

From browsing for T-shirts as an excuse for an impromptu DIY night to grabbing the best fit of boyfriend jeans, thrift shops have a little bit of everything thrown into one giant mix. Break the barrier and cross over to the other side… of the store to be sure to get the best deal on those oversize men’s crewneck sweaters that everyone seems to love.

I, myself am a serious outfit repeater (Sorry Kate Sanders, I’m with Lizzie McGuire on this one) but with all of the clothes I have I am always looking for ways to make the outfit my own and give it my personal touch. Between classes, working and going out to maintain a social life, thrifting allows a grab and go approach to trying out new trends and styles. Want to try out a blazer but not sure how it will complement you? Head to your local thrift store and get one for $5 first.

Shown above is a forrest green snake pattern jacket found at my local thrift shop for only $5.50 which was used to pull together an entire outfit by adding a splash of color. Pairing something like this jacket with a bold statement chain makes for a simple but flashy look, which is sure to draw a little attention.

If you need any more of a reason to go thrift shopping think of all of the possibilities that you can mix and match for even just $20 and a little creative energy flowing.

Do not break the bank trying to break your boundaries, thrift instead.

STYLE GURU STYLE: Dare To Day Party

The best time of the year is upon us as many would say. A time of warm weather, cute clothes, and endless backyard shenanigans. Many use this transition from the cold as a reason to change up their style. Warmer weather is a perfect excuse to get dolled up and make some new friends because lets be honest, who does not love a day party and everything it has to offer?

From one college cutie to the next do not be afraid to use a day party as an excuse to be daring. Try out those adorable new overalls that have just been hanging in your closet or spice things up with a simple sun dress loaded with the best accessories.

Above all else remember to make sure that you keep your clothing to a solid comfort level or how else will you be able to focus on the cutie playing frisbee?

If you are feeling a little sporty grab a jersey and get going. Nothing is more common on college campuses than to see jerseys of all teams and players so why should you not join in on the fun. They are perfect for being paired with sneakers and high knee socks.

Nothing quite screams you’re ready to party than the perfect pair of sunglasses, so make sure you include all your must have items, strut your stuff and be sure to turn a few heads in the process.

From corn hole to capture the flag no one is ever really sure what a day party will consist of. That is why sticking to cute and comfy is the right way to go. With sandals and flats coming out of the woodworks to regain their number one spot on everybody’s feet be sure to paint those little piggies as an extra little pop of color.

STYLE ADVICE: Swimming into Spring

CABIN FEVER?! Cabin fever. It’s about that time of year, are you feeling it yet? Well I’ll tell you right now that you are not the only one. We’ve officially hit the part of the year where the snow is melting, thus making everything soggy, muddy, and such a mess. While the days are still long and the wind still ever so harsh, do not stay cooped up all season long. Bad weather cannot kill your style this spring.

Featured in this article and coming back this season are floral printed shoes, and as the marvelous Meryl Streep’s character Miranda Priestly said once before, “Florals? in Spring? Groundbreaking.” Why yes Meryl, I know florals are nothing new but as always they are making a come back this spring which is exactly where they belong in new and trendy colors and patterns. Nothing brightens a mood and shouts springs quite like pastel flowers flooding a white canvas.

The warmth of a cute pair of jeans should be enough to hold you over until the fresh new warmer air rolls in, but be sure to pair it with a warm, cozy sweater just to be safe. On days where you would much rather stay in bed, just throw on a sweater with a few accessories, your outfit will be complete and ready to go.

Pairing any outfit with a watch especially if you are running late is not only stylish and trendy but useful as well. Combination bracelets are extra helpful for adding color, a little arm candy and pulling an entire look full circle.

This season be sure to stay warm as always, but never let the weather dull your style. Be on the look out for florals and bright colors coming your way shortly. Throw in a bright nail polish or some statement jewelry and you are ready to take on anything.

WHAT TO WEAR: A Day Downtown

Heading downtown to grab a cup of coffee or to check out that new bookstore with a group of friends? What better way to do that than in comfy, chic clothing without all of the extra effort. No need to deal with the hassle of tearing apart your closet in order to go above and beyond for a simple day downtown, but you will be sure to still turn a few heads while strutting your stuff.

A colored pair of ripped jeans paired with just the right top allows you to have a balance between shades and is sure not to draw too much attention to one area. A bold statement jacket on top, however, allows the right amount observation to shine through an outfit, while not taking away from all of other aspects. A mix of colors and shades can bring any outfit to life, on even the gloomiest of winter days.

The right pair of shoes helps to bring an entire look together, and booties are always a go to. Not only are they adorable, but they keep your feet warm and are comfy to walk in, especially if you are spending your day bopping around town. Be sure to keep that in mind if you plan on being on your feet all day long, because uncomfortable shoes can definitely ruin what could have been a good day.

Jewelry, on the other hand completes an outfit all together given the right pieces. Not only does it stand out against your clothes and add a little shine, but who doesn’t love a nice choker or dangle necklace? Accessories make all of the difference, especially to what could otherwise be a very simple and plan outfit.

STYLE GURU BIO: Olivia Cleary

Hey, hi, hello to all! I’d like to start off by saying I’m Olivia! I’m a sophomore at Bloomsburg University and this is my second semester with College Fashionista. I reside in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania where I spend most of my “free time” working and watching Netflix. A few of my favorite things include hiking, shopping (go figure), and having photo shoots with my friends.

Recently, I have made an attempt to step out of my fashion comfort zone and I cannot wait to see the transformation that it will have. A lot of what I normally wear are dark colors and neutrals, however, I am making my way into adding pops of color here and there to spice up my wardrobe. Different shades of pink and orange have made their way into my home, where my family sleeps, and I have to say I am quite okay with it. Not only does it give me a variety of different accessories to choose from, but it helps draw attention to what I am trying to show off in a particular piece. Personally having dark hair while adding color helps so that I do not look completely flushed constantly, and it just makes everything much more colorful, get it?

In addition, some trends that I jumped on the bandwagon for include chokers, fishnet tights, and turtleneck shirts. Not only am I excited to show you all things fashion forward this semester, but I am extremely excited to see all of the fashion tips that are going to be thrown my way as well. I look forward to making connections with Fashionista/os from all across the country and cannot wait to see what this semester holds!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Fee-fi-FAUX-fur

The holiday season is approaching ever so rapidly and what better way to spread holiday cheer than sharing fashion tips for all to hear? I’d like to start out by saying that my permanent spot on the nice list comes as no surprise to any and that my list of holiday must-haves include anything and everything faux fur. Not only will faux fur keep you nice and toasty warm this season, but you will be doing it in style, so what could be better?

If you’re stepping out for the evening, a faux fur coat would help dress it up and keep you comfortable. Faux fur keeps you just as warm and it is just as adorable as real fur without having to take it away from the animals (because they will be needing their coats this season too!!) But always remember that warmth and comfortability are two things you should never have to sacrifice when picking out a nice cute coat for this chilly time of year!

Layering season is upon us and a spicy fur vest would fire up an outfit for any occasion. Wether you’re going for something naughty or something nice, there is a fur-friendly article of clothing out there that will have you looking incomparable this year. You’ll stick out more than Rudolph with that red nose, but everyone will be begging you to join their games.

Accessories like faux fur hats, gloves and scarves will make all the difference on those extra chilly nights that are soon to be on their way so don’t forget to stock up. There is nothing worse than going out and being cold or going out and sweating to death in an outfit, so mix and match it up to master any look this season that will be sure to keep you warm and comfortable. Accessories do make statements and help bring an outfit to full so be sure to grab some gloves or a hat to really bring a little light into your life and your outfit, but be sure not to overdo it! No one would want to walk around looking like a human chinchilla, now would they?

With so many styles to choose from, there will definitely be something for your everyday life or for those special occasion nights when you really want to POP. So I am making a wish list and checking it twice.. I am going to find faux fur that is still really nice. So that when I come to town I’ll be doing it right, cause faux fur is what’s hot right now.

ALL IN THE DETAILS: Sink Into Scarves

As the great Rachel Zoe once said, “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” While the idea of looking at someone and basing who you think they are depending on what they are wearing is a completely ridiculous notion, looks are one of the first things people are able to base value judgement off of. While it says more about the person doing the judgement rather than the person being judged, there is no reason not to take pride in your style regardless.
Something as simple as a colorful scarf can easily dress up or even dress down any outfit. Adding a little splash of color or pop of a pattern can often single handedly complete an outfit. Not to mention it helps having the millions of different possible combinations to choose from. Want to add a bit of color to a neutral look? Throw on a scarf. Want to dress down a lively party dress? Throw on a scarf.
From thick wool scarves worn on a chilly winter night to thin silk scarves coming alive in the spring, there is by all odds one out there that is just right for any occasion or season. Not to mention all of the various ways to wear scarves including different braids to tie them into, using them as headbands or even as belts (how cool, am I right?).
Scarves are definitely one of my favorite accessories to wear to spiff up any outfit. It’s like a little hug for your neck, so I’m calling to you Fashionistas/os to go grab a scarf today, right now, as soon as possible, to spruce up your wardrobe!

Spread peace, love and fashion.

STYLE GURU STYLE: All Things Olive

I’m not sure if my love for olive is because some of my coworkers call me Olive, as the actual Latin meaning of my name is “olive tree” or because of my many vivid childhood memories of sticking olives on the tips of my fingers. One thing I am sure of however is that olive green is one of my favorite colors to wear and I am definitely feeling it for this fall, or any time of year for that matter.
I’m a firm believer in wearing what you feel comfortable and confident in which is what olive green does for me, and as Margherita Missoni once said, “If you wear things you adore, you just look better.” I’m going to take that saying to the grave with me because no one’s opinion of you matters more than your own and when you dress nice, you feel nice.
Recently over the summer I purchased the olive green pants that can be seen above from Forever21 and I instantly fell in love with them. Worried at first that I wouldn’t have anywhere to wear them, my fears quickly disappeared when I discovered that they are hands down one of the comfiest pairs of pants I own and they are super easy to mix and match with almost any item of clothing to fit any style. From earthy, neutral tones to flashy gold statement jewelry, there isn’t anything olive green doesn’t pair nice with.
Another great thing about olive green is that no matter what skin tone, hair color or eye color you have you will always be looking your best because it is a universal color with so many different shades and hues that nearly anyone can pull off. Personally, I love olive green because it helps to make my green eyes POP and my fair skin glow!
Olive green is a perfect color for the fall because while we are being surrounded by color changing leaves and dying grass, we start to lose some of the green in nature that many people including myself love. Warm browns, oranges and reds are going to be taking over parts of our earth again in a few short weeks, and while it will be a beautiful sight like always, we can’t soon forget about the lovely green that’s leaving. So go out to your favorite store, grab something olive, work that piece and give a little green back into fashion this fall.

STYLE GURU BIO: Olivia Cleary

Hey Fashionistas/os, I’m Olivia! I am a sophomore at Bloomsburg University majoring in mass communications and this is my first semester writing as a Style Guru for CollegeFashionista. From jumpsuits to jean jackets, there isn’t anything I’m not willing to wear or at least try out in the name fashion. I’m an East Coast baby born and raised currently residing in Pennsylvania, but my story definitely doesn’t stop there.
The easiest way I think I can describe myself is as a lipstick loving, stripe wearing, mug collecting, super cool plant mom who’s fashion sense changes as often as my hair color – which I have to say is pretty often. The amount of shoes I have in my closet out numbers the amount of shows in my Netflix queue, and every one of my hats each has a special place on my wall and in my heart. I’ve recently found an undying love for sushi and as a college student learned that cereal is a perfect go-to meal at any hour of the day. My hobbies include hiking, cuddling with my cat, shopping (of course) and doing arts and crafts with my insanely awesome BFF back home.
There isn’t one word that I would specifically choose to describe my fashion taste, other than if I feel confident, I’m keeping it on. I like to think of myself as someone who puts time and effort into what they wear when they’re going out, even just to hang with friends, because like my mother always told me growing up “it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.” One day I may be wearing ripped jeans, a bodysuit and my favorite pair of adidas sneakers, whereas the next day I could be wearing a free flowing sundress with a pair of cute wedges followed by another completely different outfit the day after that. My taste ranges far and wide, including everything in between.

Words can’t express how excited I am for this semester and to see where this takes me in life. I look forward to reading a variety of different articles, getting to know a bunch of other fashion lovers from all across the world and learning about different fashion tips that I can use along the way. I hope you all enjoy reading my posts, keeping up with me (the long lost Kardashian) and learning what I have to share with the wonderful world of fashion.