campus style – CollegeFashionista

Back-to-School Style for Girls Who Are Always Running Late

School is starting up again, and we all know what that means: the dreaded 8 a.m. classes. For those of us Fashionistas who are always hitting snooze, putting together a stylish outfit while we’re rushing out the door can be a struggle. Luckily, there are a few ways you can still look rad in back to school style, even if you’ve only got a few minutes to spare.

PHOTO: Cassidy Clark

One of the most versatile pieces of clothing that every girl needs to incorporate into her back to school style is a cute, lightweight jacket. Jean and bomber jackets are some great go-to staples to start with and can be paired with pretty much any outfit, from a floral romper to a T-shirt and black jeans. Layering a trendy jacket over your ensemble instantly makes it seem like the outfit you put together in five minutes was carefully styled the night before, without costing you any extra time.

Another tip to keep in mind is that accessories can be your greatest asset. No time to deal with a bad case of bed head? A baseball cap paired with a low messy bun is a cute and effortless solution. Not satisfied with just throwing on a white T-shirt and jeans? Layer on a blanket scarf for a dynamic pop of texture and style. Even just grabbing a few bangles and slipping them on while on your way to class instantly adds a little personality to your outfit, taking your look from basic to chic in a snap.

PHOTO: Cassidy Clark

Now that you’ve nailed your back to school style with a killer outfit and you’re glancing at the clock wondering if you have enough time to grab your morning coffee before class, there’s only one thing you still need: shoes. When you’re already in a rush, the last thing you want to do is rummage through your shoe collection for a pair that complements your outfit and doesn’t have too many buckles and straps to wrangle with. If you’re someone who’s eternally late to class, having a pair of basic and easy to slip-on shoes is essential. Check out the Steve Madden Glenda Sneaker Mule in Black Suede ($80) for an easy-to-slip-on shoe that’s not only on-trend but also comfortable and versatile. Now that you’ve completed your ensemble, you can get to class on time and in style.

PHOTO: Cassidy Clark

What are your go-to outfits for class when you’re running late? Show us on social media and don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista!

Join the “Fit Glam” Fashion Trend with 3 Staple Pieces

Everyone knows that “fit glam” is becoming more and more popular these days, so why not take part in this amazing trend? Personally, I think that fashion and fitness colliding is one of the greatest things to happen in the fashion world. Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Khloe Kardashian are icons for this trend. Here are three foolproof ways to create an effortless “fit glam” outfit.

1—Leggings! Is there anyone who doesn’t love a good pair of workout leggings? They are the foundation for a flawless “fit glam” outfit or any outfit in general. You can always go with a pair of black leggings, or try a pair with different designs and colors. Leggings come in almost any style you can think of, so don’t be afraid to step outside the box.

2—A baseball cap. It’s a simple and easy way to create the perfect “fit glam” outfit. Whether you plan to work out or not, baseball caps create a sporty look all on their own. Also, you don’t have to worry about a bad hair day which is an obvious bonus. You can rock a pony tail, a cute braid, or even a messy bun to add to the sporty look you’re going for.

3—Wear your favorite pair of sneakers. Your shoes can totally make or break your outfit, so make sure you wear your best pair. My favorite pair of Converse is my go-to for my “fit glam” outfits. Sneakers are the best way to stay comfortable while looking fashionable at the same time.

How do you partake in the “fit glam” trend? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

School is in Session But Your Summer Wardrobe Doesn’t Have to Retire

Classes may be officially starting, but don’t abandon your summer closet! I have rounded up five trends of the summer that you shouldn’t forget as the fall semester emerges!

1—Denim jacket. I paired this denim jacket with a timeless, checkered shift dress. Worn on or around the waist, it brings an edginess to any outfit. Jean jackets are a must-have for any college student! They can be worn with a plain white top and a plaid scarf to create a chic, fall ensemble as cooler weather approaches.

2—Off-the-shoulder tops. Although fall has not officially arrived yet, it is fast approaching. As the season emerges, keep an eye out for neutral or dark, rich colored off-the-shoulder tops. Focus on frilly, dainty off-the-shoulder tops these will transition well and are perfect for a special date or girls night! Worn with the right necklace and accessories, you’ll be emanating early fall vibes when you get back on campus!

3—Two-tone denim. The two-tone denim craze of this summer is still very alive! Don’t feel the need to leave them behind in your closet at home. Two-tone denim jeans are surprisingly easy to style—they draw much attention and therefore require only the simplest of tops to be paired with. This unique twist on the plain blue jean is not going anywhere, so add these to your school essentials!

4—Linen pants. A summer staple, linen pants go with almost anything. Nevertheless, they absolutely qualify as fall wear. Comfortable and casual, they are perfect for an easy and effortless outfit for class. To establish contrast and differentiation, try pairing lighter linen pants with a dark top, and vice versa.

5—Espadrilles. Espadrilles have been all the rage this summer! Although these wedge shoes are often associated with summer, they are totally transitional. Experimenting with different colored and styled espadrilles is sure to shake up your back-to-school look. With the usually added height that espadrilles offer, you’ll stand tall and confident. Paired with fringe hem jeans, you’ll create instantaneous wardrobe envy on your campus! Essentially any shoes can be transformative in nature and tailor to any kind of outfit. However, if you’re looking for less summery shoes, try these espadrilles.

What summer styles are you bringing with you into the new semester? Share them on social media and don’t forget to tag @CFashionista!

How Fashion Provided This College Student With More Than Just Good Style

Growing up, I was so self-conscious, had horrible anxiety, and was always in a world of fear. I realized I was this way because I didn’t feel comfortable in my own body and was always worried about the size label in my jeans or the letter size on my tops and dresses. I became so fearful of what others thought of my appearance. I stopped myself from doing so much and being social because of the way I saw myself in the mirror.

I didn’t realize at a young age that nobody judges you as much as you judge yourself. I soon felt that weight of trying to “fit in” lift off my shoulders. I started caring less about what others thought of me and focused on my own style and my own world. I explored my creativity and became confident with myself after I realized that the only person who needed to be happy with me was myself.

Fashion quickly became the biggest pass time and outlet for me to express myself. I opened up an online boutique when I was a sophomore in high school and sold accessories and crafts online. I took my designs to local craft shows and saw other young girls’ faces light up when they saw that everything at my booth was made by my two hands. I felt that I too inspired other girls out there to dream big and not to let their own thoughts, fears, or worries scare them away from doing what they love the most.

Following high school, I attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising San Francisco. Here was where my love for the city grew so much. It was also at FIDM where I realized that fashion can be for anyone, it can look like anything, and it can make some people the happiest.

What are you passionate about? Let me know in the comments below!

Back to School in Style

The summer has flown by, and now it’s time to get ready to head back to school. I love the summer as much as the next person, but I am beyond excited to go back to school. I will be a sophomore this year at James Madison University. I am no longer a fearful freshman. I have more confidence in my place at school and I want my outfits to reflect that this year.

My favorite thing about summer fashion is how carefree it is. I want to capture that feeling in my outfits for the upcoming school months, as well as make them wearable for the cooler months ahead.

For me going back to school was always such an exciting time. My favorite part was shopping for new school supplies and a new first-day outfit. It’s an opportunity to start fresh for the year and try out something new; going back to school represents endless new possibilities for the year ahead. This all starts with the outfit. Since I was young, I loved to plan what I would wear for the first day of school. The importance of “back to school fashion” is to show who you are for the coming year and to be able to express yourself in a creative way.

Now that I am in college, my “back to school” outfit has to be both cute and functional. I go to school in the south, so the first day is always hot! Even though I would love to wear a nice pair of jeans, it would be nearly impossible in the late August heat.

I am pairing my jean skirt from Free People with my tan lace up T-shirt from Topshop.

I added a gold choker with a silver pendant to the look, as a statement piece.

The shoes I choose to pair with this look are my short brown boots that are a staple in my wardrobe for the fall months. They are easy to pair with many outfits and can fluctuate, being worn in a casual or more dressy setting.

The colors in this look are very subdued and neutral, in preparation for the upcoming tones of fall. I also have a navy blue backpack, which I will use to carry all my books and laptop to each class.

This look is one of my favorites to begin the transition from summer to fall fashion, as it is easy to add layers to and uses neutral colors that remind many of autumn.

Step out of your comfort zone, this coming school year. If I could give one piece of advice to incoming freshman, it would be to use this fresh start as a way to cultivate your sense of self.

What are you planning on wearing as a “back to school” look? Let us know in the comments below!

Here Are the Back to College Fashion Trends You Need to Know About

It is just about that time of year again—fall semester is approaching. Whether you have been avoiding it all summer or keeping yourself busy with work and summer classes, we all have to face the reality of heading back to campus for the fall semester. The good news is that a new semester means fresh new pencils, binders, and of course a new wardrobe! So, here are my top three favorite back to college trends.

1—Colorful jackets.

Throw on your leather jacket with a nice skirt and crop top or a pair of jeans and a T-shirt. Adding a fluffy jacket will bring a simple outfit to life with texture and color. These jackets are such a quick and easy way to keep yourself warm and stylish this fall.

2—Newsboy cap.

I absolutely love throwing on this hat because it immediately makes your outfit chic and pulled together. Pair this hat with jeans and a T-shirt or a dress and booties. This is a good way to make a look edgy or girly. You are set to be the trendiest student on campus with a classic newsboy cap.

3—Ripped band T-shirts.

We have all snoozed the alarm one too many times and woken up in a frantic state trying to figure out what to wear. Having a bunch of simple band T-shirts on hand will instantly pull your look together. Pair them with a denim skirt, high-waisted jeans, or over a dress and you are ready to take on all of your fall classes looking chic and trendy. So, get ready to grab your girl group and rock one of your favorite looks on campus this semester!

Leave a comment or tag us on Instagram at @cfashionista with your favorite fall trends!

5 Ways to Survive College While Balling on a Budget

The heat index is peaking, signaling the end of summer and time to swap our beloved hometowns for our college towns. With all of the excitement of returning to college and reuniting with our friends, it is easy to drain all of the money that you worked so hard over the summer to make. If you’re anything like me and you think you have to add every fall trend to your wardrobe but your bank account does not always agree, follow these five points of advice on how to survive college on a budget.

1—Make discount stores your best friend. Trust me, I know it’s the easiest to just run into your local college boutique and rack up a pricey bill on the cutest new romper that just arrived, but sacrificing the shopping experience for low prices will be the best decision you’ll ever make. Stores such as T.J. Maxx, Marshalls (wedges for less than $25), and Target have on-trend items at super low prices so that you don’t have to pick between girls night or that new game day dress!

2—Wait the trend out. I know this one is easier said than done, but I cannot even count how many items in my closet I have only worn once because the trend ended faster than my occasion to wear it. A general rule is to wait three months, if the trend is still booming and has the potential to shift into a fashion staple, then purchase it!

3—Don’t spend money on small things and save for big purchases. Unfortunately that $3 venti vanilla iced coffee every day (sometimes twice a day, oops) before class really begins to add up. Small changes such as purchasing your own coffee maker instead of buying it out will save you a lot of money in the long run and is a lot healthier as well. So ditch the long coffee lines that make you late to class and start saving up for that classic trench coat or Chanel bag that you’ve always wanted.

4—Take advantage of student discounts. Many stores offer a student discount that you may not even be aware of! Popular retailers such as ASOS, Madewell, Topshop, and J.Crew offer a discount to students, so next time you are itching for that new dress, check one of these retailers first.

5—Assess what you will realistically wear. Often the idea of an outfit is very compelling, but before buying an item, ask yourself if you will really put it to use. If you’re anything like me, you have a closet overflowing with on-trend outfits, but when it comes time for class you just throw on the college uniform of running shorts and a tee shirt. Before splurging on a whole new fall collection, be certain that you will wear the outfit many times.

Next time you find yourself relating to the song “Young Dumb & Broke” by Khalid a little too much, refer to these tips to save you some extra cash throughout the semester.

How do you save money during the school year? Show us by tagging @CFashionista on Instagram!

The Perfect Blush Pink Pieces

Pink can be a stereotypical color, but I think blush pink is much more simple and classy. Blush pink complements so many skin tones, which means that the color can look good on anyone. Here are some of my favorite ways to spice up an outfit with this beautiful color.

1—A mesh pullover hoodie. Mesh is very “in” right now. A hoodie can be worn for a casual, athletic look with leggings or it can be rocked with cute boyfriend jeans. Your pick!

2—A bralette. This blush pink bralette is a mesh and lace material with floral details. It can be worn under a dress or low-cut shirt or you can simply keep yourself comfortable and wear it under whatever you want.

3—A velvet or suede dress. This oh-so-in velvet dress would be perfect for a night out with your girls or a date night!

4—Maxi skirts. Long skirts are always fun, especially if you find one with a slit or that shows a little bit of skin. A pink skirt with a slit is perfect if you are looking to show some skin and bask in the attention. There is nothing wrong with showing off a little leg!

5—A small patterned purse. Everyone needs a pink purse in their life, so why not choose a fun one? Dolce & Gabbana’s trendy pineapple purse is one-of-a-kind.

6—A shoulder bag. The Givenchy Antigona Mini Leather Shoulder bag is the perfect size crossbody—not too big and not too small. The perfect look, the perfect size, and the perfect color are a win-win-win combination!

7—Shoes. Valentino’s Garavani Suede Ballet Slippers are the definition of perfection. They are cute, comfy, and can be an everyday staple. Dress them up with a cute dress or down with rolled jeans and a casual top.

Show us your favorite ways to style pink on social media and be sure to tag @CFashionista!

Lazy Girl Looks—Back-to-School Style

Feeling lazy? I’ve got news. This back-to-school season’s hottest accessory is sweatpants. And no, I’m not kidding.

This complete outfit is my definitive go-to look for the everyday college girl who never has time to wash her hair, regularly sleeps past her alarm and isn’t afraid to rock the heck out of sweatpants.

Who has time for a full face of makeup before noon? If you are one of the girls that has perfectly blended shadow and contour at 8 a.m., you are my hero. But for me, makeup is usually the first thing I sacrifice if I am running behind schedule. With just four products you can fake a full-face and enhance your natural beauty in just a few minutes.

1—Apply concealer under the eyes and to any blemishes. Quick touch ups with concealer are more efficient than a face of foundation. Plus, you can toss the tube in your backpack to reapply later if needed.

2—Highlight cheekbones, the tip of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and inner corner of the eye. This Becca Champagne Pop highlighter is quite literally my best friend. It gives the most beautiful glow that will bring your tired face to life. I like to add this NYX shimmery pencil to my inner corner so the highlight sticks better and really brightens up my eyes.

3—Coat those lashes. Mascara really finishes a makeup look; I tend to feel like I haven’t completed any look without my lashes done. Feeling extra bold? Use a colored mascara for an interesting pop that looks fancy without the time commitment of an eyeshadow look.

The most commonly used hair product of every college girl has to be dry shampoo. Seriously, who has time to keep her hair clean every day? When I’ve skipped a couple washes, I reach for a baseball cap instead. It’s an extra accessory to add to your outfit, and dad caps are even on trend! This vintage Gap cap is durable, cute, and a little grungy. So when you are too lazy to even spray your hair, just grab your cap and call it a day.

Who said sweatpants aren’t acceptable to wear outside of the house? I’d like to have a chat with them.

These black jogger sweatpants are the perfect comfy pant to wear to bed at night and continue wearing to class the next morning. Just roll out of bed, throw on a bralette (no time for a real bra, of course), a tank top, some killer sneakers and you are golden.

Don’t forget your backpack!

Share your favorite lazy back-to-school looks on social media, and don’t forget to tag us @CFashionista!

How to Take Summer Runway Trends to College

Whether you are a fashion student, an Upper East Side “It Girl,” or just stylish, everyone wants to wear the latest runway trends, even to classes.

The S/S 17 runways had an upbeat edge with bright, fun colors—canary yellow and bright washes of fuchsia pink dominated collection palette. Surprisingly, these bold colors took center stage instead of simply staying in the detailing.

This season’s runway shows also saw sleeves with ruffled textures and flutes. While the drama found some serenity with tulle and other sheer fabrics, Minimalism also ruled the runways simultaneously. I have fallen in love with what the S/S 17 runways had to offer. The season’s fashion is poised to make some major closet transformations.

Remember that you don’t need a lot of money to be trendy. Just a trendy element here or there, and you can nail your college look. Here, I have styled some S/S 17 trends in a way that you can take them to college in a comfortable yet stylish manner.

Waist Cinchers

Waist cinchers or corsets, often associated with the Renaissance woman, has had a prominent appearance at the S/S 17 catwalks. The trend was highlighted at the Balmain, Balenciaga, and Loewe shows. Soon after, it started appearing as a more shoppable trend. The addition of this Zara waist cincher to my outfit instantly adds a stylish yet bold edge.

Buzzwords

2017 saw the return of the slogan T-shirts: White shirts with words about anything. The “We should all be feminists” T-shirt, a creative invention of Maria Grazia Churia’s debut at Christian Dior, stole every Fashionista’s heart. Slogan T-shirts can be a funky way of staying trendy with your college wear. (Also, possibly the most comfortable one!)

Pink, Pink Everywhere

Pink here, pink there, pink everywhere! S/S 17 saw some pretty silhouettes in pink. From Balenciaga to Valentino, pink was seen in every form and hue, with bold fuchsia dominating the runways. Pale or punchy, you can incorporate pink in any form in your college wear and make a statement. Here, I have picked up a pink top with some ruffles and bows.

Statement Stripes and Fringed Jeans

Stripes are a staple in every season, but the S/S 17 season saw a reimagining of stripes as bright, bold, sailor, school, and mismatched stripes. Stripes can be quite easily incorporated into your college wear to keep you looking trendy. Mix some stripes together for a contrast or just throw a jacket over a striped T-shirt with a pair of fringed jeans and you’re done.

How would you wear the summer trends to college? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @CFashionista.