Sarah Corwin – CollegeFashionista

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Fall Fashion with Summer Style

August marks the beginning of the end, and along with the immense heat waves during these final weeks of summer comes the desire to shop for fall fashion. We're suddenly sick of our open-toed wedges and silk rompers, and craving an outfit consisting of suede ballet flats and sheer black tights.

During one of the last weeks of my summer internship, I came across this Fashionista, who dared to incorporate both seasons into her trendy ensemble. Tie-dye has been a popular trend for Summer 2010 and this Fashionista carries it out till the end, while getting a jump-start on the Fall 2010 must-have of hoisery. By pairing a Free People tie-dye ruffle tunic in bright summer colors of pinks and purples with black opaque tights, this Fashionista added edge to an otherwise girly look. She stays consistent with the boho-chic look of the Free People brand by completing her outfit with black Minnetonka Moccasin booties. To keep her outfit work-appropriate, she covers her shoulders with a Rachel Pally black sleeveless cardigan.

What's great about this look is that it's good for back-to-school. Paired with her Marc by Marc Jacobs "Totally Turnlock Sasha Handbag" this Fashionista is ready for a stylish yet comfortable day in class. Ditch the over-sized messenger for a clutch, and put on a pair of funky black wedges and this outfit instantly becomes great for a night out at school.

Hint: Everyone's biggest pet-peeve about wearing stockings/tights are the fact that they usually rip after only one wear. Spanx and Wolford are two great brands of tights that I have found I can rely on even after multiple wearings. The thick material of these tights ensure durability, and because you can wear them them over and over rather then disposing them after just one time, they are well worth the price. Spanx are especially great if you are body-concious; they are made purposely to be worn high-waisted, ensuring that those "muffin-tops" are covered and creating a smooth look under clothing.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Blue Suede Shoes

The first thing I noticed about this Fashionista was her feet — her shoes combine both the oxford and summer-suede trends in the perfect shade of navy blue. While oxfords are typically a preppy staple, incorporated into a predominantly vintage outfit like this gives them a boho-chic feel. I wasn't surprised to hear that she found them at Forever 21; over the past few months I have been pleasantly surprised by the selection of on-trend shoes you can find there. They make everything from wedges, to flats and open-toe booties, and at such an affordable price you never have to feel bad about ruining them.

The oxfords aren't the only thing this Fashionista did right — something should be said for the rest of her outfit as well. She paired a silk vintage floral skirt with a simple cotton tank for a look of comfort and ease, while the purple leather belt (also vintage) completes the look and adds a tailored feel, making her seem more "put together." A belt is a great way to add a pop of color, or to separate a baggy top from a baggy bottom by cinching the waist.

My favorite detail of this look is its color scheme. While it seems like there is a lot going in the skirt, her accessories are the perfect shades and tie in the colors in the pattern without being too "matchy". Choosing light pink for the top of this outfit was smart, as it adds a new color to the palette, but isn't too dark or loud to distract from the floral.

Lastly, I love how this Fashionista chose to carry a classic Louis Vuitton handbag — mixing expensive pieces with inexpensive pieces creates a great overall look.

Hint: Another alternative to a look similar to this is by pairing a tailored floral print skirt with your favorite loose vintage T-Shirt. If the shirt has any words or graphics on them even better- it makes it more interesting. Try a skirt like this from Anthropologie, (a great place to get vintage-inspired clothing). If you don't have any great old T-Shirts, try purchasing one with the burn-out affect to achieve the vintage feel, and an outfit similar to this.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: “DO” Choose Darks

Most think it's wrong to wear dark denim in the summer, but every Fashionista knows this is a fashion "DO" for the season. Dark jeans are especially great for a summer night out, as they are dressier than a light wash. My favorite look for a summer night out is high waisted skinny jeans, and a cute top tucked-in.

This Fashionista definitely has the look down. She chose French Connection black "jeggings," which are the perfect mix between skinny jeans and a great pair of leggings. They ensure style as well as comfort, which is always great for those sticky summer nights. The best part about these pants are the zippers on the back ankles, as well as following the current exposed zipper trend, they also allow you to customize how tight they fall at the ankles. Seven For All Mankind makes a great pair of jeggings.

I love the black and white contrast on this Fashionista. With her black leggings, she chose to wear a white linen cami by Joie. White linens this one are the perfect mix of sheer and lace for that "Naughty and Nice" look popular this summer. Another way you can achieve this look is by showing skin under a knit or crochet top; another great trend for the season. Purposely exposing a bra under a top like this or this, is a great way to make an otherwise conservative top more playful for a night out.

Every pair of skinny jeans should be worn with a heel of some sort, it's a great evening look and also very flattering. Wedges are my first choice of footwear for this summer; especially ones as tall as 4 inches, like this Coach pair in canvas. Wedges are a great alternative to your standard heal, they are both trendy and comfortable all night. Some of the greatest pair of wedges can be found at TopShop.

This look is completed with gold jewlery. This Fashionista's gold chains are from Forever 21, which is a great place to find inexpensive gold accessories. Adding gold pieces to a neutral outfit helps make the outfit more interesting, and dresses it up for a night out.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Fall for Clogs

This Fashionista is trendy from head to toe…emphasis on the toes. Her Stuart Weitzman studded peep-toe clogs are what originally drew me to the outfit. In true 90's fashion, she turns her brother's baggy Old Navy jeans into the ever popular boy-friend jean short, making the look sexier with the shoes. Her vintage Ellen Tracy white button down is classic, and gives her outfit a preppy touch.

Getting thrifty with parts of your wardrobe leaves room for spending money on other components; because both her top and bottom are inexpensive, this Fashionista was able to splurge on the shoes.

Along with the clogs, I love the exposed pockets of the shorts. They help give the shorts a "messy but cute" feel, and make them more unique then just your average denim shorts.

Her neutral color scheme of white, denim, and tan, are perfect for any summer day or night, and leave room for plenty of bold accessories. This Fashionista wears her classic Ray-Ban aviators, and a funky animal print clutch of an unknown brand. If you're into animal print but not ready to wear it on a garment, incorporate this trend with a less obvious piece like a bag, or even footwear. These DV Dolce Vita leopard print gladiator sandals are great: they're studded, comfortable, and can help make any outfit more interesting. A brown leather belt would also help complete this outfit, and would look great with the clogs.

Hint: Steal a pair of old jeans from a brother, boyfriend, dad, etc. and turn them into jean shorts like the one above. First, try them on and mark them with a marker or pin at a length you feel most comfortable with, make sure to leave room to cuff the bottom. Fold your jeans so the legs line up evenly, and cut straight across. Cuff the bottoms and your done. To get the exposed pocket look, pull the material down and fold the front of your shorts more to make them a little shorter. Another great way to make the pockets visible is by distressing your jeans and ripping them in the front.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Draped at the Waist

A sundress is always my first choice for any summer event, especially a barbecue. A simple style like the one above in a light cotton material is the perfect choice for eating outside, its bright color keeps it interesting, while its simple style keeps it casual. The draping at the waist of the dress keeps it perfectly proportioned, and loose in all the right areas; no Fashionista wants to wear something skin tight while eating tons of food. The draped waist also helps create a baggy, layered effect that's very popular this summer.

This Fashionista found her dress amongst the racks at Forever 21, but another easy, go-to place for a cotton dress in a vibrant color is American Apparel. Styles like this Drawstring Tank Dress, and Baby Rib Mini Shift Dress come in great colors for the summer and stay true to the layered trend.

Instead of a the usual pair of sandals, make your outfit more unique by pairing it with a cute pair of sneakers. I love the look of a flirty dress with cute sneakers, it's unexpected and fun. A funky color or pattern works well with a solid colored dress like the one above. Keds are my favorite for the summer. Urban Outfitters also makes an identical version of this classic sneaker in every possible color.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: A Simple Sundress

It's been steaming hot in NYC, temperatures have gone up to 104 degrees, and this is just the beginning. This unbearable climate makes it almost impossible to get dressed in the morning, trying to be appropriate for both the weather and the office. That's wear the sundress comes in! We've been wearing them for years — they're quick and easy to throw on, light and airy to help with the heat, and of course, stylish.

This Fashionista caught my eye with her choice of sundress. A little navy dress is an updated version of the LBD we all know and love, and the love-knot pattern in the fabric helps keep it mature and classic. I also love the back of the dress as it ties up in a corset fashion, helping the bodice fit perfectly on her thin frame. It's easy to feel like you look too young or too casual in a sundress in vibrant colors or patterns, but choosing a solid color with a simple pattern like this one makes it work. Her dress is made by Flat Black by Peg Leg NYC and can be found, amongst many other perfect sundresses, at Urban Outfitters. Other great places to look are Free People, and Shop Bop.

Footwear depends on the length of the dress, and what occasion you are dressing for. This Fashionista chose to wear flats for work, these Giussepe Zanotti indian-inspired sandals, are perfect for the dress, as they are loud enough to compliment its simplicity. I also love how the gold tones pick up the slight hints of yellow in the design of the dress. Lord and Taylor is my favorite place to shop for funky footwear.

Like always, jewelry and accessories are important to the look. My favorite thing to do for years now is layering necklaces. This Fashionista wears an assortment of small chains with various charms all together, I love how she mixes gold and silver — always a DO in my book. Another way you can layer your necklaces is by length, I usually like to wear a small one around my neck and a longer one so that it drapes over the front of my dress. You can even go for one more and wear a third layering piece, just make sure all necklaces are able to be seen.

Lastly, her handbag. I love how she chose a red bag for her pop-of-color, (which you should always have with an outfit with neutral tones). This Miu Miu bag is the perfect size to carry everything you need for a day in the city, and helps make her simple sundress anything but boring.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Military Pride

July 4th festivities are right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate our country's independence than by incorporating it into our style. As the "Old Americana" spirit takes over the Fall 2010 runways, military jackets hit the streets of New York with perfect timing. These shoots from Vogue showcase the trend.

This Fashionista made a simple black romper (a necessary basic for the summer), more unique with her vintage green military jacket. Local consignment shops are the best places to search authentic military clothing. Beacon's Closet of Brooklyn is one that caters to current trends, and makes finding military-inspired pieces like this one easier.

The tailored style of her Forever 21 romper works well with the "grunge" feel of the jacket, while her black patent leather sandals with a small wedge add the perfect touch of girly to the outfit. Enzo Angiolini makes a great leather gladiator sandal with a slightly wedged heel. A colorful necklace, also vintage, brings color into this neutral look.

Funky plastic framed sunglasses complete the look, continuing its vintage vibe. Cheap sunglasses like these can be found at any street vendor, but these were found on St. Marks street.

Remember to think military this weekend and show your American pride without being typical in red, white, or blue.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Tailored with Ease

This summer, collared button-downs are making a comeback, and not in the conservative way, but in the quick and comfy way. This Fashionista chose a traditional blue color for her blouse, pairing them with a simple pair of black leggings. If your style, like mine, is anything but preppy, leggings are great to wear under a closed button-down. Even when it is worn loose and untucked, it still creates a more put-together and tailored look.

Her top is from The Gap, which is a great place to find standard button-downs; they always have a great selection of styles to choose from.

American Apparel is a great place to shop for good quality leggings, which are reasonably priced and last through countless amounts of wearing. The model in this link shows another way to wear a button-down with leggings, she wears the leggings high-wasted, and knots her shirt at the bottom, leaving just the perfect amount of skin showing for another alternative way of wearing a tailored top.

Replacing a string of pearls, typically worn with this type of shirt, this Fashionista instead chose to accessorize with trendy pieces. A pair of Michael Kors sunglasses, in a style similar to the popular Ray Ban Wayfarers, helps keep a classic feel to this outfit.

Her choice of footwear is very important to the simplicity of her outfit. With very little color, her ensemble leaves room for a busy pair of sandals. These Steve Madden embellished gladiators are perfect, as they are consistent with the neutral color scheme of the rest of the outfit, yet decorative with a variety of different size, shape, and color metal studs.

Lastly, her oversized canvas handbag completes the look. Any oversized handbag is a great way to make a simple outfit more interesting, but canvas especially is a popular handbag material for the summer. Like this Foley And Corinna Classic Mid City Tote worn by the Fashionista, the canvas keeps an otherwise “stuffy” shirt casual and fun.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: A Fancy Spin on Casual

This Fashionista did a great job of dressing up a casual, everyday outfit. By choosing trendy versions of the classic jeans-and-tee, she created a happy medium between simple and glamorous. What I love about this outfit is that it consists of only four basic pieces, there's not a lot going on, but at the same time it makes a statement.

Designed by Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen, this Elizabeth and James cotton top is light, airy, and perfect for a hot summer day in NYC. It's also very flattering for her figure, and its color helps make the outfit more interesting.

I love her choice of denim; Sporting ripped boyfriend AG jeans, she is a true Fashionista. Boyfriend jeans are a must have for Summer 2010: they are perfect for almost all body types, as they are worn purposely oversized and typically cuffed on the bottom. They also look great with heels, and for a fun evening look should be worn with a tighter top (like a simple black strapless cami), tucked in.

Her accessories are what make the outfit special and complete. I was immediately drawn to this Fashionista on the street because of her Madewell necklace. I love its vintage feel and the great contrast between its gold chains and girly oversized crystals. Oversized crystal necklaces like this are another must-have for the summer, and a great trend because as you can see, they dress up any outfit.

Finally, her footwear – These Diane Von Furstenberg jellies are a unique spin on the classic gladiator sandal we all know and love. I recommend investing in a pair of black jelly flats like these; they're comfortable and easy — and on sale at Bloomingdales!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Style by the Sea

This week's style advice was influenced by a Memorial Day Weekend trip to Long Island, New York's beautiful and beachy Hamptons — where the weather is warm, and the people are trendy. This Fashionista is sporting the perfect Hamptons outfit, which also works for a summer afternoon or evening in any city.

On top she is wearing a sheer summer dress, a must have for summer 2010. What's great about this ivory dress is that it incorporates the pattern trend as well, detailed with navy butterflies. I also love how it is long sleeved, because we all know how breezy and cool a summer day (or night) by the beach can become. A black bra under this top makes the outfit great for a night out, but can also be substituted with a bathing suit top for an outing during the day.

While this dress is delicate and girly, denim ripped shorts bring an edge to the look, and work perfectly with its length, just the right amount of denim peeks out under the dress' hem.

This summertime ensemble is completed by the Fashionista's accessories. To cover her beach hair, she sports a summer version of a fedora, made from a straw-like material and detailed in fun bold colors with a bow on the side.

The footwear on this Fashionista makes the outfit, as she chose black leather sandals with a high wooden wedge, perfect for an evening excursion by the beach, (no one wants to deal with a heal stuck in sand). Once again, these wedges can be substituted for flats for a daytime look.

Finally, no sunny day is complete without a pair of oversized aviators, and what better pair to sport than the classic gold Ray-Bans, made popular by Carrie Bradshaw in every Fashionista's favorite show, Sex and the City.

This patterned dress, as well as many others, can be found at one of my personal favorite stores TopShop, (appropriate after having just come back from a semester abroad in London). The denim shorts are Urban Renewal, wedges by Steve Madden, and fedora, Anthropologie.