Author: Sarah Allen

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Sarah Shatz

Denim-on-denim can be so ‘90s, right? Wrong! We have seen major a comeback with this tricky trend, and it’s all about choosing contrasting washes, which can be the dividing line between tacky and trendy. I saw this Fashionista mixing denim on her way to a late lunch. White shorts are the perfect solution to rocking this trend. A studded denim jacket balances out her white denim. Her cool take on a classic look shows us that denim-on-denim is so not a look of the past!

Name: Sarah Shatz

Major: Undeclared, but will probably be Political Communications with a Psychology minor

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Sarah Shatz: I am wearing Brandy Melville jean shorts, Fiorentini and Baker boots and a vintage studded jean jacket.

CF: How would you describe your style?

SS: I would describe it as stylish, sexy, a bit indie-but classy. Showing skin is always a plus, as long as you do it with class!

CF: Who is your favorite style icon?

SS: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen and Kate Moss.

CF: If you had to live in one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

SS: I would live in a pair of J Brand jeggings (because they are comfortable and stylish and go with any shirt) and a comfy Alexander Wang top.

How To: To get an edgy take on an all-American, denim look like this Fashionista, start with a pair of white shorts. This is the perfect base for a denim-on-denim look because it is versatile and is a great summer wash. Choose a basic top, but don’t be afraid to choose one that has color. This will break up the colors and textures of the denim. Add on a denim vest or jacket to complete the look. Try finding one with studs like this Fashionista for an edgier look. Slip on a pair of boots like this Fashionista did to take the look from throwback to trendy.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Chelsey d’Adesky

There are always those mornings when getting dressed feels like an Olympic sport. For those events, I present to you the romper. It is the perfect solution as there is no fuss about how to match your top half with your bottom half. It’s a one-stop, fool-proof way to looking and feeling great in the summertime. I saw this Fashionista heading to the library during finals week — although you’d never guess that based on her pulled-together look. A floral Millau romper with a cute collar was the perfect choice for a day on the go. Deep blue lace-up shoes and a geode necklace kept the outfit rockin’ (literally!) and maintained a fresh and feminine look.

Name: Chelsey d’Adesky

Major: Journalism and Mass Communications

Year:  Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: Where are some of your favorite places to shop, and why?

Chelsey d’Adesky: I really like Brandy Melville and LF, pretty much anywhere that has nice clothes that are both cute and casual.

CF: How did you decide what to wear this morning?

CA: It was a beautiful day outside, so I decided to go with something colorful and light.

CF: What is your best advice for dressing for the summer?

CA: Take advantage of the beautiful weather, keep it light and chill. Don't be afraid to show some skin!

How To: Since rompers are essentially the entirety of your outfit, don’t be afraid to pick a bolder color or print. Depending on the fit, rompers can be somewhat shapeless, so add a belt like this Fashionista did to make it form fitting. Let your accessories be accents to the colors that are in the romper to create a sense of cohesiveness within your ensemble. Keeping your outfit colorful is also a great way to keep it looking summery. Try a colored oxford instead of the typical go-to sandals. Adding a trendy geode necklace is the perfect finishing touch!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Sabina Armstrong

As temperatures get higher, it seems that hemlines seem to follow the same trend. Short skirts and short shorts are often a go-to choice, and skimpy clothes are not an uncommon sight. But, dressing like a true lady? That is. I saw this Fashionista on her way to a meeting. Her basic color choices kept the outfit simple and cohesive. Touches of shimmer, woven into her skirt (reminiscent of timeless Chanel), and classic ballet flats kept the outfit looking feminine and chic, while the pops of color in her Hermès scarf broke up the monochromatic color scheme.

Name: Sabina Armstrong

Major: International Affairs

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What is your favorite spring trend and favorite item to wear in the spring?

Sabina Armstrong: I think one of my favorite trends is neutrals I think that they are so easy to wear and you always look classic. My favorite thing to wear right now is the hand knitted sweater that I am wearing, it is the perfect add on piece, and it looks good with every spring and summer outfit!

CF: How would you describe your style in 3 words?

SA: My style is relaxed, girly and diverse.

CF: If you could raid one person's closet, who would it be and why?

SA: I would raid Sienna Miller's closet! She has always been a style icon of mine. She is someone who is able to make a grungy outfit look classic or a classic outfit look hipster. There are no limits with her style and that’s what I love the most about her!

How To: To get a look like this Fashionista’s, opt for a fuller skirt as opposed to a bandage one. A partially tucked-in, chunky sweater gives the look a more trendy and modern vibe. Try choosing pieces that are all within the same color scheme and let your accessories add some pops of color. Adding on a silk scarf, but leaving it open, like this Fashoinsta did, is the perfect way to wear this accessory in the warmer, spring weather. Finish the look off with some lady-like ballet flats and a simple clutch.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Ellen Souaid

D.C. is infamous for its scorching dog days in the summer and dressing for both the weather and style is a true art form. I saw this Fashionista coming back to the district from a night out of town. A breezy tie-front top is the perfect way to look and stay cool in the heat. Acid wash denim shorts are a refreshing detour from your standard pair of high-waisted shorts. This Fashionista’s bright aqua ballet flats, with gold-adorned bows, add the perfect punch of color.

Name: Ellen Souaid

Major: Political Science

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Ellen Souaid: I’m wearing high-waisted shorts from Forever 21, a silk oxford from the Gap, Ivanka Trump flats and a medley of vintage bracelet finds.

CF: What is your favorite item of clothing?

ES: My black leather motorcycle jacket from Zara. It has detailed work on the shoulders so it’s fun and edgy!

CF: Where do you draw the most inspiration?

ES: I definitely look at magazine editorials and online fashion blogs. I also look to movies where I really like the characters sense of style.

CF: Who is your celebrity style icon?

ES: Rachel Bilson and Zoe Saldana.

How To: To emulate an effortless and relaxed look like this Fashionista’s, take note of her decision to choose a light, airy top. Buying a tie-front blouse, or tying it up yourself like this Fashionista did, is the perfect way to stay cool and on-trend. Try steering away from the typical high-waisted denim shorts; choose ones that are an atypical wash. A bright pair of ballet flats is a fun alternative to sandals and the perfect way to incorporate a bold color into an otherwise simple outfit.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Arielle Camhi

Every Fashionsista loves a good pair of sunglasses. Whether it’s for function, emulating a classic incognito-celebrity look or just plain style, there is always an excuse to don this summer essential. Although there is always the fallback choice of aviators and wayfarers, this Fashionista chose a bolder frame, reminiscent of the classic 1950s cat eye, while running some late-afternoon errands. Her outfit consists of solely cool colors which is a nice alternative to all the bright pops of spring colors, while her lilac jeans keep the look on-trend. A pair of tortoise shell sunglasses with modern twist on a retro shape make the perfect, effortless accessory to complement her laid-back look.

Name: Arielle Camhi

Major: Speech and Hearing Sciences

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What is your favorite item in your wardrobe?

Arielle Camhi: My favorite item in my wardrobe is my blue Free City zip up hoodie. It's cozy when I'm lounging.

CF: Where are your favorite places to shop?

AC: My favorite places to shop are the stores in Georgetown considering I pretty much take daily solo trips there.

CF: What is your favorite spring accessory?

AC: My sunglasses! I love the instant glamour that sunglasses can add to any look.

CF: How do you decide what shape sunglasses to wear?

AC: When picking sunglasses, make sure you take into consideration which frames would look best on you. Pay attention to your face shape as well as your coloring to determine what color frames will suit your face.

How To: Don’t be shy to venture to the other side of the color spectrum. Choosing items that are different shades of colors that are in the same family is a good way to keep the outfit fun and balanced. Play up pastel jeans with a darker hued top. Add T-strap sandals and a paler bag, which simultaneously makes a statement while remaining a more subdued aspect of the outfit. Choose a pair of sunglasses to be a key focus point in the outfit. To try the cat eye look like this Fashionista, opt for a more modern approach to the frame, as the true cat eye can be difficult to pull off.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Lilly Fried

Summer is all about being laid back and crop tops are the perfect top for summer events. But what about the school days leading up to summer? The midriff might seem a little '90s risqué. However, this Fashionista proved this wrong when I spotted her heading back to her townhouse from a meeting. Her tie-front crochet top is the perfect, on-trend type of crop top for the day, as it isn’t too cropped. Pairing the dainty top with dark denim and leather flats creates the perfect balance.

Name: Lilly Fried

Major: Marketing and Hospitality Management

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Lilly Fried: I’m wearing a white lace crop top from Urban Outfitters, Seven's jeggings and Tory Burch flats.

CF: Who is the biggest influence on your style?

LF: I love Nicole Richie’s style because she incorporates lots of patterns to her wardrobe and she wears lots of flowy pieces that are great for any season.

CF: How do you decide what to wear in the morning?

LF: Comfort is key for me and I think it is always important to look put together so I especially love wearing jeggings because they are comfortable, yet look nice.

How To: A crop top is the perfect day-to-night transition piece for the summer. To choose a more school-appropriate one, opt for one that doesn’t show too much midriff. If it is a tie-front top, like this Fashionista’s, keep the tie loose so that it falls a little lower. At night, tie it tighter to make it more cropped. Choose a pair of jeans that are not too low-rise. Simple flats and simple jewelry, like this Fashoinista’s nameplate will keep the outfit looking laid-back and casual.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Roselyn Mathews

A monochromatic outfit is all about taking cohesiveness to the next level. Choosing a singular color to base an entire ensemble around can be intimidating, as there is a delicate line between being boring and being drowned in the color of choice. I saw this Fashionista pulling off such a task on her way back from an appointment. Choosing different shades of blue creates an exciting and interesting theme within her outfit. While this could easily be overdone, sticking with a neutral top and flats ensures that she stays chic.

Name: Roselyn Mathews

Major: Undecided

Year: Freshman

CollegeFashionista: What are you wearing?

Roselyn Mathews: I am wearing a pair of Current/Elliot jeans, a C&C California long sleeve shirt, Massimo Dutti leather jacket, BCBG flats, and a Longchamp tote bag.

CF: What is your best advice for dressing for spring?

RM: Layer, layer, layer! Since moving to D.C. I have noticed that the weather here is never consistent and you can avoid weather flop by simply adding a sweater.

CF: What is a staple item in your wardrobe?

RM: A leather jacket is always my go-to. You can wear a leather jacket with jeans during the day or with a fun going out dress at night — it completely changes the look. It’s an essential piece!

How To: Dressing monochromatically can be done at all different levels. To take a more subtle approach, like this Fashionista, choose a few key items to base your outfit around. Pick a pair of colored denim pants. If they have a pattern, even better because it keeps the outfit from looking boring. Carry this color throughout your outfit by incorporating accessories, such as a bag, within the same color scheme, but of a different shade or hue. Choosing a neutral top lets the colors do all the work and keeps your outfit looking stylish and effortless!

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Tori Balkin

In the fall we saw jeans in rich, dark shades, but spring is all about wearing colors representative of the flowers that are beginning to bloom. Sorbet and citrus colors are a great, fresh way to add sophisticated color into any outfit. I saw this Fashionista on her way to an afternoon class. Her tangerine jeans are the perfect pop of spring color. Paired with a beige, cropped Brandy Melville crochet sweater creates an effortless look, while her TOMS keep the outfit cohesive and laid back. This fun play on colors is one trend that is most definitely ripe for the taking!

Name: Tori Balkin

Major: International Affairs

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: What is your favorite item to wear in the spring?

Tori Balkin: I love anything that has to do with shoes, whether it’s a good pair of flats or sandals.

CF: Where do you find your style inspiration?

TB: I find a lot of my inspiration from J.Crew! I love the clothes they have and the way they style them.

CF: What is your favorite color to wear?

TB: I love to wear bright, springy colors. I really just like to wear colors that make me stand out.

How To: Adding this fun element into your outfit is easy! Instead of choosing a pair of jeans in the bold colors that were popular in the fall, opting for a pair that has a bright, while more subtle, sorbet hue is a great place to start. Since this is the focus piece of your outfit, keep everything else simple to create a cool, relaxed vibe. Choosing a neutral, muted top and shoes let the jeans really pop. This also makes the outfit more sophisticated since it won't be busy or overwhelming. Top it off with some delicate jewelery and sunnies and you're set!

 

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Meaghan Wagner

One of the latest, and most fun, trends has been loud prints. The bolder they are, the better. However, the most important, and sometimes trickiest, thing to remember is how to pair a bold print with subtle and more subdued pieces, to create a look that is not too busy. I saw this Fashionista on her way to a morning class, sporting a fun printed dress and an on-trend side-braid. A denim vest and taupe ankle booties, which create a sense of all-American edginess, balance the dress’s femininity. The softer shades of both pieces keep the outfit light and perfect for spring! Her monogrammed nekclace makes a statement and also truly makes the outfit all her own.

Major: Communications

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: How do you decide what to wear in the morning?

Meaghan Wagner: I like to be comfortable but not look like I just rolled out of bed. I like looking nice but comfort is key.

CF: Where are your favorite places to shop?

MW: I like to shop at big department stores that I always get lost in and get way more than I need!

CF: If you could get away with wearing the same thing everyday what would it be?

MW: Honestly, gym clothes! Tank top, leggings, sneakers – it's too comfortable to not want to wear all day every day.

How To: A cute, flirty dress is a great way to start any spring outfit. One with a bright pattern or bright color is best paired with simpler pieces to create a cohesive outfit. Try adding a denim vest on top to contrast the girly dress. Neutral ankle booties and simple accessories pull the look together and create a perfect day-to-night outfit! By adding simple, yet functional, accessories such as a skinny brown belt, you can give the dress a more flattering shape and let the dress's pattern take center stage.

FASHIONISTA SPOTLIGHT: Katie McGrath

Fishnets tend to only be worn as part of a risqué, barely-there Halloween costume. But, this is a falsity. Worn the right way, fishnets can be an awesome, and even conservative, piece to add to any outfit. The fishnet is also only thought of as an excuse for tights. Another falsity. This Fashionista, heading to lunch, proved both of these misconceptions wrong as she chose a fresh, white American Retro Knit Top with fishnet-esque detailing. Layering it over a black tank is the perfect way to wear it for class and adding a chic Philip Lim vest adds instant chicness and a contrast to the delicate knitting of her top. Her dainty, aqua Van Cleef and Arpels necklace is the perfect pop of color for the spring. This outfit proves that the fishnet is not just a one-tricky pony, at least not anymore!

Name: Katie McGrath

Major: International Business

Year: Sophomore

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your style?

Katie McGrath: I usually like to wear more nude or neutral colors. I also like mixing prints and layering, so keeping the rest of my outfit neutral allows me to do that without my outfit looking too busy.

CF: If you had to live in one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

KM: If I had to live in one thing it would be my skinny jeans. They are now discontinued, which means I literally can't change jean size, but they're so comfortable and fit so well. They are great for a casual day or going out at night!

How To: To get a look like this Fashionista, try layering some unexpected texture into your outfit. A crochet top is another way to incorporate this delicate knitting into your outfit in an unexpected way, as it is normally worn during the summer. Pair it with simple, Rich and Skinny jeans and a pair of boots to make it seem less beachy. As the weather gets warmer, try a vest as a cool alternative to outerwear. Don’t forget to add a pop of color somewhere, no matter how small it may be!