5 Fashion Pieces That Will Elevate Any Back to School Outfit

The time to head back to college has officially arrived—there’s coffee in one hand, school books in the other, and a chic outfit to top it all off. The crisp air is creeping up on us, and all the newest fall pieces are hitting your favorite retail stores. First of all, overthinking an outfit in the morning while getting ready is awful and time-consuming. So, with a new semester here, look out for these five items that will make your mornings easier and elevate any outfit.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

1—Raw hem denim

Having a go-to bottom to reach for in the morning is going to make your life ten times easier. Raw hem denim is the perfect piece to spice up a somewhat basic outfit! You can pair your denim with so much: a plain white T-shirt, a chic off-the-shoulder top, or even a silk cami! Raw hem denim will help you elevate any outfit easily.

2—Loafers

Shoes are everything! Your shoes can make or a break an outfit. As a college girl, I love the combination of being stylish and comfortable for a long school day. Loafers are the perfect in between. They are stylish, look good with almost any outfit, and are definitely comfortable. I love being able to pair loafers with something as simple as jeans. The raw hem denim and loafer combination is to die for!

3—Denim jacket

The infamous denim jacket is making its rounds all over again, and this time the lust for it is even bigger. Denim jackets can enhance a look in so many different ways. You can go for the oversize look with a denim jacket and a dress, or you can go with the notorious denim-on-denim vibe. Denim jackets come in so many different textures. I love the oversize, distressed denim look.

 PHOTO: Stella Fanega

4—Hoop earrings

Let’s talk hoops. Hoops are definitely making their way back, and I hear no complaints. They are simple, easy, and modish. Remember the denim-on-denim look I just mentioned? Picture that with a slick back ponytail and hoops. Furthermore, those little pieces of jewelry just elevated that outfit another notch.

5—Button-ups

Please tell me you’ve seen all the dashing ways that you can enhance your button-ups? First of all, you can make it into an off-the-shoulder piece. Second, you can tie at the bottom of your top into a bow. There are so many blog posts out there showing you how to elevate your button-ups. Adding a button-up with a twist to it is the perfect way to take your outfits to the next level.

You can find all these styles in some of your favorite stores like Zara, Forever 21, and Nordstrom. Having these go-to pieces will help you mix and match many different items and seriously make your outfit planning so much easier.

Are you going to add any of these pieces to your wardrobe and start elevating your looks? Tag @Cfashionista in your posts when you do!

Additional photos by Lex Kelly and Kelly Rogowski.

Statement Earrings—The Perfect Selfie Accessory

We all remember the insane choker hype of last summer; it was almost impossible to avoid giving into the wildly popular trend. Personally, I owned every variation of a choker one could have, oversize fabric chokers, dainty chains, and everything in between. We’ve reached summer ’17 and the choker has been exhausted. We need a new jewelry trend. In place of neck candy, statement earrings are the latest must-have accessory.

I love this trend because it is reminiscent of 1960s glamour and elegance. A great pair of dramatic earrings is the perfect addition to a boring jeans and a white T-shirt look. The most important rule when wearing statement earrings is the bigger the better. Go for huge embellished earrings that become the center of your look, trust me it will make getting ready in the morning so much easier. A great way to experiment with earrings is to contrast the colors in your outfit. In the photo above, the whimsical outfit juxtaposes the black and white with a loud yellow print. Normally, wearing black and yellow together gives off a striking resemblance to a bumble bee, but in this look, the black-and-white earrings present a seemingly effortless retro vibe.

The beauty of statement earrings is the effortlessness they yield. Adding a pair of incredible earrings is such a simple act, yet it completely transforms a look. Whenever I feel as though my outfit is lacking a statement element, I throw on a great pair of earrings and instantly feel chic and put together. Ultimately, statement earrings are here this summer to remind us we love fashion.

How are you planning on wearing earrings this summer? Comment below! 

The Tiered Tassel Earrings Trend Is Here for the Summer

This summer’s tassel earring trend is one that no Fashionista/o wants to miss. Tassel earrings are a funky and fresh take on typical dainty, dangling earrings that have been around for years. With a pair of these silk or cotton tassel accessories, you can take any outfit up a notch or two. Brands such as Forever 21, MISA Los Angeles, Shopbop, Urban Outfitters, and BaubleBar are just a few to name that have hopped on board the tassel earring train.

Look Book

It’s important to know that there’s a wide range of outfit choices that look great with these earrings. Below are a few trendy summer looks that I love right now and they all look perfect with a pair of tassel earrings!

Beach Day

Tiered tassel earrings, a bikini, tie front closure top, a pair of jean shorts, and slide on sandals.

Summer Barbecue

Tiered tassel earrings, a mini dress, a pair of wedges, and a woven straw clutch.

Girls Night Out

A neutral skirt and top set with a pair of neon or ombre colored tassel earrings.

Extra, Extra

The choker trend remains in full swing, so why not utilize one as a sidekick for these statement earrings? Consider adding a colorful, beaded choker to any of these outfit ideas.

Ultimately, all Fashionista/o’s will be equipped to take on the summer in a stylish manner with a pair of tiered tassel earrings! How do you wear this tassel trend? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

Resume, Portfolio, or Both?

When applying for your next career, you want to make sure that you have a successful resume before presenting it to any potential employers. Having a resume is crucial but having a portfolio isn’t a bad idea either, especially in the fashion world. A portfolio is a great way to get your name out there and showcase how great you are at what you do. A portfolio is the best way to present a wide spectrum of things you are interested in doing, as well as showcasing your talent in multiple fields.

When creating your resume you want to make sure that you include all of your information accurately. Make sure to double, triple, and quadruple check your information. Also, it is always beneficial to have multiple prints of your resume handy for anytime necessary. Your resume is your business card until you get one of your own.

Volunteering, serving at homeless shelters, church activities, charity work, and providing hours to your community looks great on a resume and is a simple and easy way to improve it. Employers love to see that their employees are involved in some sort of outside work. Not only does it help the community and the people around you but it is also a generally good characteristic to present. Another good characteristic is not only having a successful resume but a successful appearance as well.

When it comes to dressing for success, there are some things you need to consider. How are your overall look and communication skills going to reflect you as a person? Present yourself as the person you strive to be, with confidence and purpose.

When preparing to engage in social interaction, make sure to check these don’ts off your list in order to make the best first impression. First thing, do not show an over abundance of skin (i.e. no short skirts and absolutely no strapless tops.) As cute as they may be, they aren’t for the workplace. Also, never wear dirty clothes, obviously. However, some people might think that they can re-wear that shirt one more time before washing, don’t. Clothes tend to hold an odor that you may not notice, but others will. In addition, never think that you can get away with wearing a wrinkled piece of clothing because you can’t. Lastly, always wear clothes that fit your body the way they should. Avoid clothes that are too baggy for your body type as well as the tops you should have gotten rid of before your freshman 15.

Any ideas or tips on how to improve your resume or portfolio? If so, please be sure to comment with suggestions and don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

Sundays in the City

Who doesn’t love a Sunday morning in New York City? Soft wind blowing through the buildings, abnormally quiet streets, and the ringing church bells from St. Patrick’s Cathedral fill the silent gaps. It is a perfect time to meet up with some friends and have brunch at your favorite local cafe down the street. This meeting calls for a cute and comfortable outfit that will get heads turning.

I discovered that while in New York City, a cute outfit is definitely a must, but a comfortable outfit is absolutely necessary! Sometimes an outfit of that perfect mix can be difficult to create, but this Fashionista combined the perfect pieces!

A new style that is definitely daring but super fun is flared trouser pants. These were found at Zara, and they are perfect when combined with a cute crop top, which was also found at Zara. The pants can either be dressed up or down, whichever you prefer! They are so comfortable and the perfect item to wear for a brunch in the city!

This outfit is super easy to pair with any of your favorite jewelry, whether that be a statement necklace, or bold earrings—anything works! As shown in the photos, this outfit is styled with breathtaking tassel earrings to dress the outfit up the perfect amount. Shoes to go with this outfit are also easy to come by—just pick your favorite pair, and they will definitely work! This Fashionista posed in platform Steve Madden sandals with this outfit to make walking around the city a breeze.

What is your perfect brunch attire? Tag @Cfashionista in your posts!

Dress to Express

My sister invited me to her university fashion show last March, and I was thrilled. Not only because I’d get to meet new people and see new collections and interesting brands, but also to start planning the outfit for the night. It was when I checked the dress code, “Dress to impress,” that I started thinking, “Wait a second. Do I need to impress somebody?”

At least that’s how “Dress to impress” sounds to me: Needing to impress someone with my outfit. Correct me if I’m wrong, but personally, I find this very confusing. When it comes to me planning my outfit, I always try to think how I would feel most comfortable. What should I wear in order to feel confident? How do I like the dress I’m trying on? Should I go for pink or yellow?

I don’t deny it: I wouldn’t mind my friends, my boyfriend, or a random person giving me a nice compliment on my new dress or lipstick. I’m quite positive that you’ll never harm anyone whenever you give a positive comment. However, I think you should always dress for yourself and not for anyone else.

When I lived in Sweden, I found it very bizarre when my friends gave me cute and friendly comments on the smallest things like earrings. The first time it felt kind of weird but also boosted my humor. But still, I never stopped wearing my favorite earrings that never actually got any compliments.

“Dress to impress,” but why not express instead? Express your inner self with clothes, makeup and other details that you like and that suit you. Express your personality and mood. Don’t bother if someone doesn’t like the pink jacket you just bought or thinks that you shouldn’t wear pink lipstick. If girly, pink lipstick is the thing you like, go for it!

How do you dress to express yourself? Show me on social media, and be sure to tag @CFashionista!

Maxi Dresses Are Life

It’s finally summer and I couldn’t be happier. Florida is extremely hot and humid during the summer. I tried wearing an Adidas jacket the other day and almost died of a heat stroke, but with the right outfit, you’ll be fine throughout the day. This Fashionista wore a perfect outfit for a summer day.

This Fashionista is wearing a blue and white maxi dress from Earthbound, a little store in St. Augustine, Florida. The side cut outs and the self-tying straps really accentuate her curves. The slit made the dress even cuter. My favorite thing about this dress is the buttoned placket. She then wore a pair of platform sandals with gold straps. Before I met this Fashionista, I didn’t really like platform sandals but seeing how cute they looked on her, I just may go buy a pair. Plus, they add a couple of inches to your height, to whoever likes to appear taller.

For her accessories, she wore a gold choker, a layered necklace, and a pair of hoop earrings. Hoop earrings have always been in, but I’ve seen a lot more girls wearing them lately. Definitely something you should buy if you haven’t yet. As for her makeup, she did a burnt orange eyeshadow and a nude lip. Her outfit is very bohemian, so you should always keep your makeup neutral.

No one wants to be all sweaty during a summer day, and that’s why maxi dresses are the perfect way to go. Are you a fan of maxi dresses? Let us know in the comments below!

The Holy Grail for Girls with Curls

My hair, my own personal barometer, is like Mother Nature’s mood ring. When the weather is humid, my hair becomes large and kinky. When it rains, my hair calms down. When there’s a drought, or a couple days without washing it, my hair maintains a bun formation even when it’s released from the hair tie. For that very reason, I would like to dedicate this to the broken brushes, the lifeless hair bands, the impossible braids, and the clogged drains. They have done me the valiant effort of taming the beast.

Once upon a time, you wore the tiny moose emblem on your blouse and burned your hair until it was crispy-straight every morning, even if it meant sizzling, steaming, and splitting it. Ironing your hair became more important than ironing your clothes. My ringlets were too challenging to tackle on my own, so I needed my mom’s undeniable blow-drying and straightening powers. The whole process took two hours…so not worth it.

I eventually realized people wanted my hair. Correction—we all want what we can’t have. As desperately as I wanted gorgeous straight hair, some wanted my gorgeous curly hair. I stopped fighting nature and began loving my wild mane.

There was a learning curve that came with balancing my style and voluminous hair. For example, glasses with thicker frames and hoop earrings don’t get camouflaged by curls— instead, they become statements of their own. If accessories don’t exist in your daily routine, you can always invest in quality mascara that darkens and adds volume to your lashes for prominent eyes every day.

Beneath my sink, a graveyard of half-full products becomes dusty, and the liquids within the squeeze bottles coagulate into gunk. Here lays a community of anti-frizz creams, curl shapers, and Hulk-strength hairsprays that just couldn’t do the trick. The long-retired straightener, blow dryer, and curler are all shoved to the back of my little cabinet. On top of the vanity counter is the one product I haven’t gone a day without since elementary school: conditioner.

My Holy Grail may seem anticlimactic, but don’t click away to the dark depths of the internet just yet. My dirty little secret is generic Pantene Conditioner, but you can pull whatever conditioner you normally use in your showers for the following trick. Distribute a generous amount of your go-to conditioner through troublesome areas and lengthy bits. Curl and twirl the pieces whichever way suits you; your fingers are the best tool. Clips can also be used to strategically place each hair where you want them to dry. It’s as simple as that, and my hair has never looked better.

Did you try my trick? Or are you bold enough to comb out your own curly hair? Show us your curly hair pride on Instagram by tagging @CFashionista!

A Simple, Versatile Makeup Look for Basically Any Occasion

Hello, and welcome to my first article as a brand new Fashionista! My name is Elena Kallergis, and this is my first semester with CollegeFashionista. I’m so excited to begin my journey as a Style Guru and to learn, grow, and experiment with fashion alongside my other guru gals. I figured because this is my first article, why not go back to the basics? I decided to do a versatile, neutral makeup look that’s not too over-the-top and can work for basically any occasion.

1—Face

For my face, I first used my Photo Finish Primer by Smashbox and then applied Make Up For Ever’s Matte Velvet  Foundation. I contoured using my E.L.F. Contour Palette, and highlighted my cheekbones and nose bridge with an E.L.F. highlighter in the shade Moonlight Pearls. I finished off my face by applying So Susan’s Blush & Glow in Rose Rust. I consider this a relatively neutral base that can you can either build up for a more dramatic effect or wear on its own. Overall, I like my beauty and fashion choices to be versatile and wearable, which is probably why I snagged this cool yet classy color-blocked denim skirt and paired it with a gray short-sleeve shirt.

2—Eyes

For my eyes, I used the Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Palette from Too Faced and swept the color Milk Chocolate over my lids as a base. Next, I applied the shimmer shade Haute Chocolate over my outer corners. Using a small angled brush, I rimmed my water line with the metallic gold color Crème Brûlée. With my Line Stiletto Eyeliner by Maybelline, I created a thin winged stroke on top of my eyes. For this look, I decided to leave my eyeliner rather simple, as it provides build-able coverage. Finally, I layered two coats of Covergirl’s LashBlast Fusion Mascara. To draw attention to my eyes, I usually like to utilize statement jewelry such as this eye-catching ear cuff.

3—Lips

I’m not too fussy with my lips, so I started by moisturizing them with Eos Lip Balm. I then applied Make Up For Ever’s Artist Rouge Creme Lipstick in C211 with a lip brush for a more precise application. If I’m feeling fancy, I would swipe on a layer of lip gloss for some extra shine.

What’s your version of a versatile makeup look? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

Mastering Your Colorful Summer Wardrobe

It’s finally time to say goodbye to winter and hello to summer! With the change in season, we ditch our dark clothes for a more colorful, bright wardrobe. As a Fashionista who tends to gravitate toward neutrals and believes black is the new black, it’s fun to play with colors during the summer months. By mixing the warm shades of coral, yellow, and red, it creates an outfit perfect for any summer day.

With this look, I wanted to incorporate one of my favorite pieces I buy time and time again —a sleeveless turtleneck. I was able to find this sunny yellow top at a local thrift store, and it has been an instant staple ever since. To balance the vibrant hue of the sweater, I chose a simple bottom. Light wash, distressed denim jeans are my go-to bottoms for the summertime, whether they are pants or cut-offs. By pairing them with a camel gladiator heel, it dresses up the outfit just the right amount.

Statement accessories can bring any outfit from stale to stylish. In this case, the oversize cross earrings and small frame sunglasses made this look more fashionably interesting. By adding current trending items inspired by the runway or your favorite influencers, it adds an exciting fashion-forward element. But always remember to make the pieces your own and add your own signature touch.

Of course, I had to have myself a Taylor Swift moment with my red lipstick to pull the entire thing together. From the outfit to the accessories to the makeup, all of the colors complement each other to create a fresh, colorful summer look.

How will you put color into your wardrobe this summer? Let us know in the comments below or show us on social media by tagging @Cfashionista on Instagram.