Author: Sophie Eisenhauer

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Style Savers

October is one of my favorite months. The leaves start turning gorgeous colors, my favorite foods now come in amazing pumpkin flavors and those 90 degree heat advisory days are a thing of the past. Not to mention day light savings time, when we gain an hour of sleep! Yes, please! With all the fabulous things that come with fall it seems like every year I come to that point where I’m still desperately trying to hold on to my favorite summer looks. I’m not mentally prepared to give up my go-to dresses and shorts just yet. Luckily there’s a way to compromise between your favorite styles and the increasingly chilling weather, throw on a pair of toasty tights! These affordable must-haves can be true style savers. Not only can tights help take your favorite looks from season to season, but they also come in handy when you realize your favorite dress may be just a little too short than you previously thought. Along with being super affordable, tights come in a variety of colors, patterns and level of sheerness.

Now tights may seem like a no brainer when paired with dresses, but paired with shorts it can really look chic while staying warm. This Fashionista chose to rock her denim shorts and tights with a cropped sweater and leather jacket. She accessorized her look with black boots and a black fringe bag. The mix of leather, light wash denim shorts and tights give her a ultra cool, rocker girl vibe. Try a pair of patterned tights to add more fun and personality to your look. If denim shorts just aren’t your thing, try and pair of pretty and sophisticated tailored shorts instead in a heavier fabric like tweed. Paired with a ruffled blouse, opaque tights and flats, you’ll be looking prim and polished from day to night.

Just remember that even though the thermometer may be heading south, doesn’t mean your style has to. Your favorite spring and summer looks can still be rocked into the cooler months with just a few simple tweaks and tricks!
 

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Buttoned Up In Blue

One of this seasons hottest trends also happens to be one of the most versatile: the denim shirt. Like it’s counterpart the classic white button-down, a simple and basic denim shirt can be paired with almost anything for a casual and stylish look.

As this trend is currently booming, there are many variations of the basic denim shirt available. Ombré washed and embellished styles are a great way to add some personality and flair to your look. But if you want more bang for your buck, I suggest getting a simple, semi-fitted denim button-up shirt in a medium wash. This will serve as a simple blank canvas for which you mix, match and accessorize with just about everything in your current wardrobe.

This Fashionista put together an adorable day look by pairing her denim shirt with pair of simple black leggings, black riding boots and a floral scarf that added some color and pattern to her outfit. The simplicity of her look is both sleek and chic, while still look very on-trend and modern. To dress up your denim for a night out, pair your shirt with a fun maxi skirt, jewelry and wedged booties. If you want to break out from the usual standard, try a denim shirt with interesting detailing like adornment. Pair one of these quirky tops with a colored skinny or cords for a cozy look perfect for fall.

So whether you prefer your denim to be simple or bold, they can all be worn with your other favorite looks for a fashionable fall style.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Endless Shades of Gray

With the thermometer continuing to drop and the weather appearing more dreary and drab, you’re probably looking for your favorite fall colors to add some pop to your wardrobe. While that’s a fabulous way to go, don’t avoid the color gray altogether! Gray is a fresh substitute for your usual go-tos like denim and blacks!

This Fashionista chose to rock the color gray in her blazer and sweater. She chose a pair of light pink skinnies and continued the gray trend in her pashmina paisley scarf to complete the look. By varying the shades of gray, her look looks modern and fresh. Her gray cotton blazer is a great alternative for day because it’s more casual than black. If you want a blazer with fun details, try one with girly ruffles or the popular peplum.

Gray is also a great alternative color to try in your bottoms. Gray skinnies are a great neutral and can easily be transitioned into your existing wardrobe since they go with almost anything. Try pairing gray skinnies with a red plaid shirt, a chunky cardigan and boots for a warm fall ensemble. Or try pairing them with a pretty floral top and brown wedges for a girly night out look. If you like to wear more color is your everyday style, try using gray in your winter accessories. Gloves, scarves and toasty headbands are a great way to stay warm and can be matched with all your outfits, no matter how colorful you decide to be!

The possibilities are truly endless for this color, no matter how you chose to wear it.
 

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Red Hot

Fall is the perfect time to make bold statements with your outerwear pieces. They’ll keep you warm in the chilly weather while also taking your outfit to a new level of chic. Whether your preference is leather, like Jennifer Morrison's character Emma in ABC's Once Upon a Time, blazers or peacoats, stand out this fall by thinking red. It's one of those colors that looks great on every skin tone, so don’t be afraid to rock this bold color as a great outwear statement piece!

This Fashionista has totally hit the hot mark in her red leather jacket. She paired hers with a white satin blouse and black tailored shorts. She added some edge to her look with patterned tights and studded black shoes. She accessorized with a black fringe bag and silver placket necklace. What really makes her look a winner is that she let her red leather jacket take the starring role in her ensemble, and kept the rest of her outfit in neutral black and white colors. Because red is such an attention grabbing color, make sure the rest of your outfit is neutral like this Fashionista did to keep your outfit balanced and not overdone.

If leather isn’t your thing, try pairing your little black dress with a red blazer to add some color and spice to your outfit. Mix in a pair of high heels and metallic jewelry to give you a polished and ultra glam evening look. If you’re like me and love your cozy peacoats, try this red belted version. The belt gives your waist some great definition, and paired with your favorite skinnies and riding boots, this look will definitely be a hit.

So whatever your fall outerwear preference may be, try it in red for a beautiful and bold pop of color. This will leave you looking red hot in the cold months to come!
 

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Playful Playsuits

Nobody loves dresses more than me but whenever I wear them to class I immediately regret it when a gust of wind blows through campus. Trying to hold down your dress while walking to class is not the most graceful gesture, so when I discovered the romper I gave major thanks to the fashion gods. Rompers are a great substitute for a dresses because you never have to worry about that gust of wind revealing too much. Rompers and jumpsuits are so on trend right now and come in a variety of styles, colors and patterns.

This Fashionista is wearing an adorable burgundy V-neck romper. The warm color combined with the three-quarter sleeves makes this playsuit perfect for fall. Finding a romper with longer sleeves will keep you warm on chilly autumn days but will still showcase your killer gams! This Fashionista completed her look with strappy sandals and a brown leather messenger bag to balance out the huge splash of color. If you’re not ready to part with your sleeveless rompers just yet, pair them with a comfy cardigan and booties to transition the summer staple to fall.

Rompers are great for day but they can also be perfect for evenings out. I love dressing up rompers for special occasions. They’re a nice change from your usual dresses and will instantly get you noticed. Try a romper with dressier details like embellishments, lace and playful necklines. This simple black romper from ASOS is a great alternative to the little black dress. The long sleeves will keep you covered up but the deep V-neck is super sexy. Add a pair of fun colored heels or bold earrings to give your look the perfect finishing touch. Rompers are the best of both worlds, you get to look super cute and feel confident on those windy days!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Navaho Chic

With fall weather fast approaching, you’re probably preparing your closet for the summer to fall transition. If your state is anything like Kansas, temperatures are still soaring into the '90s, and it’s important to have pieces on hand that can be worn no matter what Mother Nature decides to throw at us. If you’re looking for a new go-to boot, try swapping your usual riding boots for a pair of moccasin boots! They'll make a great addition to any fall wardrobe and can easily transition from warmer weather to the colder months.

While the weather’s still warm, take a cue from this Fashionista and try pairing your moccasin boots with a pair of denim shorts and a flowy top. The brown suede from the boots mixed with the denim will help give your look a relaxed, bohemian feel. Her simple accessories, like her chunky gold watch, make her look feel effortless and chic. Keeping the rest of your outfit simple will balance your look and the focus will remain on these awesome boots.

These boots are a great basic to have in your closet and can be a perfect go-to when you want to change up your style. For a girly look, try pairing these boots with a colorfu,l flirty floral dress and a distressed jean jacket. When the thermometer drops, these boots are an easy throw-on piece for those chilly, early morning classes. Pair them with a chunky, oversized sweater and your favorite leggings for a comfortable and stylish look.

If tall boots aren’t your thing, you can still rock this trend with a shorter ankle length bootie or the classic moccasin loafer. Whether it's with shorts or sweaters, rocking this trend will keep feet warm and your Fashionista status even hotter for this coming fall!

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Green With Envy

The summer months may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean you have to trade all your bright summer colors for drab and dull tones. Continue to stand out on campus this fall by playing with lively colors and prints.

Take a cue from this Fashionista’s fun, yet relaxed look with a great maxi-dress. They’re fashionable and on-trend, while also being comfortable and easy-going. Try this style in a bright color, like kelly green or cobalt blue. This Fashionista paired her solid colored maxi with a multi-colored beaded statement necklace and a fabulous clutch. The entire look made for the perfect summer ensemble with a load of color and accents to make this outfit stand out.

If maxi dresses aren’t your favorite trend to rock, no fear, because this color trend can be done in any style. Trying any of your favorite styles in new, bright hues will instantly make your look look more fresh and up to date. Try taking a brightly colored semi-sheer button-up, and tuck it into a pair of white skinny jeans or denim shorts. By keeping the other half of your outfit simple, this will make your shirt the main focus of your outfit. If you want to kick it up a notch, try pairing a brightly colored top with a brightly colored bottom. This will give you an awesome color blocked look that everyone will notice!

Let’s face it, morning classes can be a huge snooze-fest, so give yourself a bright boost by adding some colored caffeine to your wardrobe.

STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Denim Blues

Denim has always had a reputation for being easy and comfortable, but if you’re looking to update your usual go-to style try one of this season's hottest new trends — denim on denim. Because denim already comes in so many colors, washes and styles, this trend is an easy one to try from your current wardrobe!

The key to making this trend look modern and chic is to mix your denim washes and colors. Take a cue from this Fashionista who paired a medium wash denim shirt with a bleached pair of light wash denim shorts. Her style looks effortless and casual when her shirt is left unbuttoned with a simple tank underneath and casual sandals. She accessorizes her outfit with a chunky gold watch, delicate gold necklace and bright laptop sleeve. Her candy-apple red Marc Jacobs laptop sleeve gives a bright pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. By keeping her accessories simple, the main focus is kept on her denim shirt and shorts trend, and that helps maintain a clean and chic appearance.

To achieve this look, try this studded shirt for added edge. You can also try pairing a denim top, like a vest or jacket, with a colored denim skirt. This trend can easily be translated into the colder months by swapping the shorts for your favorite pair of skinny jeans. A denim shirt with white skinny jeans can look polished and sophisticated with the right accessories.

This trend is easy for those summer to fall transition months and can be rocked with any denim pieces from your existing wardrobe. Just remember mix your denim colors and washes and you’ll be good to go!
 

Style Guru Bio: Sophie Eisenhauer

Hello fellow Fashionistas! My name is Sophie Eisenhauer and I’m a senior studying Apparel Marketing and Journalism at Kansas State University. I am beyond excited to be back as one of your Style Guru’s for this coming fall!

Ever since I can remember, fashion has played a huge role in my life; a large part of which I give complete credit to my Grandma Pat. She has always been a style icon to me and I’ve always admired her classic and chic style. Growing up, I went through all the typical style stages of most 90’s girls, but it wasn’t until later in high school that I really realized how much I enjoyed fashion and started to develop my personal style. Winning the ‘Best Dressed’ award my senior year was the icing on the cake. But it still wasn’t until college that I had the obvious epiphany that I wanted to make my delightful passion a career.  And ever since then I have been working hard to some day find my future career is this crazy, but wonderful industry. This past spring I was lucky enough to get to study fashion in one of the world’s most fashion-forward locations, London. Living in London opened my eyes to all different types of style and really inspired me on so many levels.

My personal style always seems to be evolving, but I love taking classic and timeless silhouettes and mixing them with on-trend pieces to create a modern and flattering ensemble. My personal style mantra is that great style can be achieved at any age, price point, and body type. Style is such a wonderful way to express yourself and as long as you’re always wearing confidence and a smile, you can take on the world!

I look forward to bringing you this fall’s latest trends and style advice as your Style Guru!
 

FASHION FROM ABROAD: Ladies of London

I can’t believe my time studying abroad in London has almost come to an end! Yes, Big Ben is indeed counting down the days until it’s time for me to pack all my bags and head back to the states. While I have enjoyed taking in all of what London has to offer, I have by far enjoyed observing their famous fashion and trends. And after almost five months of research, I think I can safely say that I’ve really grasped the style and vibe of London’s college Fashionistas and what in my opinion are their most popular trends.

This particular Fashionista is a classmate of mine at my study abroad school in London. She is the quintessential “British” girl, who always comes dressed for class wearing all of London’s most famous high-street brands. Her look is a perfect example of what you would see walking down almost any street in London; a mix of prim and proper with equal parts edge and roughness. It’s very “the Royals meet Amy Winehouse,” both very different but very British.

This Fashionista is mixing prints, fabrics, colors and details in a stylish, fashion forward way. Even though there is warm weather stateside, London has seen very little sun all spring. Because of this, black is a very popular and versatile color that’s worn year round, even in the summer months. This fabulous oversized tweed blazer is from Zara. Tweed is synonymous with the timeless elegance and sophistication of a Coco Chanel suit and Jackie-O. But this tweed blazer is anything but prim and proper. The stud detailing on the jacket is what really takes this jacket from a great basic to a killer, yet versatile statement piece. The contrast between the fabric and metal detailing really caught my eye. Her colorful printed blouse can also be found at Zara, both available now. By keeping the rest of her outfit simple with black skinny jeans, the color in the blouse and details in the jacket were really able to stand out. She accessorized with her Alexander McQueen crystal skull necklace, Louis Vuitton handbag and black-heeled booties to complete the look.

Achieving this look is actually very simple. If you’re like me and tend to be drawn toward more feminine, girly trends, try swapping out your usual pearl necklace for a gold spiked bracelet. Or try adding some gold studs from a craft store to an on-trend pastel blazer. If you can’t seem to get enough leather in your life, try swapping your usual go-to rocker tee for something chiffon and sheer. Little changes like these can go a long way when updating your wardrobe. But most importantly, have fun with your style, whatever it may be. That is definitely the main thing I picked up on from the ladies of London. You could tell that they truly love fashion, and love creating and experimenting based on their unique personality and style. It was truly inspiring!