Graphic – CollegeFashionista

How to Rock Graphic T-Shirts in The Summertime

Ah, graphic T-shirts. They just make me oh so happy. They can be worn so many ways, can be transitioned from the colder seasons to the warmer seasons, and look great with just about anything.They’re casual, edgy, and trendy and can even be DIY’ed as I show you later on.

My favorite thing to do is go thrifting and gather as many graphic T-shirts as I can find (usually from the men’s section—seriously give it a shot!). Then I run home, grab my fabric scissors and go crazy. I love the idea that most graphic T-shirts have writing on them.

My graphic tank says “I Solemnly Swear That I Am Up to No Good”. It’s one of my favorite quotes from Harry Potter and shows off my totally nerdy side! Wearing shirts that show off your interests is a great way to connect with other people and are great conversation starters. Accio, awesomeness! That’s a spell to summon awesomeness.

I love wearing quirky shirts like these with either denim distressed shorts in the summertime or comfortable harem pants as shown above. I personally love getting my harem pants from H&M and Forever 21. They are super flattering, affordable, and comfortable.

I recently splurged on a graphic T-shirt from Gucci. I have been lusting after it for a very long time and decided to go for it!

However, you totally do not need an expensive graphic T-shirt to rock this trend! The previous shirts shown were under $20! I love wearing these T-shirts with loads of layered accessories and funky sunglasses like these yellow ones. And, of course, my favorite accessory always has to be in hand, my iced chai latte.

Here we have a Brooklyn T-shirt to rep my hometown from a local boutique, the overdressed crop top and two of my favorite DIYs on the bottom. I took these thrifted shirts, a Metallica band T-shirt and a Society brand shirt, cut them up, then weaved through this lace-up design. No one could believe these were not store bought and that I had created them myself for under 10 dollars each!

Here are some of my favorite loafers and slides for the summer and to pair with graphic T-shirts. My nude loafers are a perfect neutral tone that looks good with everything! I am totally digging the slide trend and had to get my hands on the ones shown above. Throwing on some slides or loafers with your graphic T-shirts and bottoms of choice is the easiest way to look chic and edgy in the summertime.

How do you rock this trend? Show us on social media @Cfashionista!

About Arnelle

Hey there, Fashionistas! My name is Arnelle Sullivan. I am super excited to join the College Fashionista team and take you guys on my journey with fashion! I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and I could not imagine myself permanently living anywhere else. I definitely feel like Brooklyn has had a huge influence in the way that I dress and the way I see many trends. I am currently a junior at the University of Maryland, College Park where I am studying communications and public relations. While I am a student athlete on the tennis team, I adore fashion and take up any opportunity to dress up and experiment with my look.

I have always loved everything involving fashion and beauty. Ever since I was very young, I enjoyed playing with dolls. From Barbie to American Girl, I would mix up the dolls’ outfits and have small fashion shows with them. Then dressing up dolls soon evolved to me actually trying out different combinations on myself. At the age of 13, I would look through Seventeen Magazine, see the different looks featured then try to recreate them.

I don’t really have a specific style that I fall under. One day I’ll be dressed very sporty, the next more girly or even edgier. The biggest thing for me is being comfortable. I have always believed that you can follow trends while being comfortable and expressing your individuality. You should never force yourself to be something that you are not or try to fit into someone else’s mold. This is definitely one of my most comfortable outfits and can be worn for a nice day in the city.

I am obsessed with Hawaiian shirts so I decided to incorporate one into my look. I am wearing this Tommy Hilfiger Hawaiian style shirt with high-waisted shorts. I wanted to add a little pop, so I paired it with a platform silver sneaker. These shoes are from a collaboration done by Kswiss x JustFab. I also love having multiple earrings in my ears, so I decided to wear silver jewelry to conclude the look.

Tell me about your personal style and how your location has influenced it in the comments below!

WHAT TO WEAR: When You Look Good, You Feel Good

On any college campus, final exams echo cries of panic, depression, and all around stress. Coupled with the stressful atmosphere, come sweatpants, sweatshirts, messy hair, and quite possibly the absence of basic human activities. These include but are not limited to: failing to take showers at regular intervals, not eating at the right times, getting less than the recommended amount of sleep, and failing to exercise. Now, I am not criticizing finals attire, as I also know how it feels to neglect the gym for weeks, throw on that library sweatshirt, and study all day. However, when you look good, you feel good—right? This is exactly what this Fashionista has mastered. While everyone else was sporting their latest “I am too busy for real clothes” wear, her outfit screamed “wait, I forgot it was finals, because I am unusually and perfectly put together!”

Everything from this Fashionista’s hair down to her shoes works in synchronicity. Red is the main tone throughout her outfit, where it serves as an accent color, as well as a base. For example, red is prevalent in her shirt and Dr. Marten shoes, where it grounds her outfit as a base color. However, it also acts as an accent on the underside of her coat and in its trim. Her ensemble works exceptionally well because she only wears four colors: red, green, blue, and white. These distinct colors are highlighted by a geometric theme consistent throughout. Her boxy crop top is patterned with lines and shapes that complement the shirt’s shape. Additionally, her rectangular, and slightly oversize jacket pairs nicely with her cropped top, as it elongates her figure and fits nicely within the geometric theme. To further express herself, she wears funky mismatching earrings made of precise lines, circles, and triangles.

I even asked this Fashionista if she had more exams, to which she replied that she did! She also explained that her thoughtful outfit helped her feel better in this time of stress—how incredible! So, if you are nervous and anxious about your exams this semester, try and look your best. Even if you feel that you don’t have the time, it may help you focus, and even study just a little bit harder. After all, looking great, really can help you feel great!

STYLE ADVICE: Blushing into Spring

If you have been on the internet for even a moment, or just took a look around your campus, you’ve seen blush looks everywhere. It would be a gross understatement to say that it was the color of the season. With such a prominent trend, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd, but this Fashionista uses a fun, unique pattern to avoid being too monotonous.

This romper has all the best features for those steamy spring days: it’s lightweight, has a bright print, and can easily be taken from day to night. Here in Georgia, it can be so difficult to dress during this transition season. We have hot, humid days and then the next it can be 60 degrees and windy. This romper is perfect because the material is light enough to enjoy on a warm day but it can also be layered with a jacket and paired with some sneakers for a more edgy look on a cooler day.

So, what makes this Fashionista stand out? It’s her accessories. While her romper has black accents, by opting for a brown leather Fossil handbag and light brown Steve Madden sandals, she avoids matching too closely. The worn-in structure of the bag hinders it from appearing too structured and therefore gives the outfit a laid back feel.

As for jewelry, her gold Kate Spade New York bangle and gold Fossil watch lend to the gold fixtures on her bag and sandals, creating a cohesive look. With such a busy print, the Fashionista decided that it would be too much to add a stand out necklace, and instead opted for a more subdued periwinkle stone necklace.

In order to dress this look up for a night, she could easily swap out her sandals for some black chunky heels, add a clutch and some statement earrings and bam, she has the perfect look for a night out!

STYLE ADVICE: Work What You’ve Got

Bring on the heat. As we approach the end of the spring semester and finals coming up we tend to lean towards comfortable articles of clothing to get us through this stressful time. We are almost there!

This Fashionista finds inspiration through her love of music. She creates music and she likes her style to reflect that. This Fashionista loves her comfort when getting through those long days. Her personal style on a day to day basis consist of dark and neutral colors that adds a “chill” vibe to her style. She wears a graphic hoodie layered with a leather jacket to add to her grungy look. Dark wash jeans are her go-to item of clothing which goes perfectly with this look. She finishes this outfit off with classic Vans and a crossbody bag.

Now, on to the advice. We discussed how often at time this Fashionista’s challenges are figuring out what works for her. I think everyone has their own style that works for them. There’s no right or wrong way with your own style. Style is all about what your personality is like or what you’re comfortable in. I believe ones fashion choices are solely about them and not what others think is acceptable. As long as you are happy and confident in what you are wearing that’s all that matters. This summer wear what you like! Try new trends and experiment with whatever beauty or fashion trends you feel comfortable trying. Work with what you have and you may just create an awesome look.

6 Ways to Actually Wear the Runway’s Biggest Spring Trends

This spring is all about making statements—at least according to the spring 2017 ready-to-wear collections. The top trends featured in Vogue.com‘s round-up call for bold colors, fabrics, and cuts this season; each look mixing minimal styles and maximum detail. With spring renewal brings new opportunities to stand out,

Sometimes, the looks featured on the catwalk are a bit intimidating to imitate for day-to-day life. Our Style Gurus have been incorporating designer-inspired statement pieces to rework popular runway designs and be bold this spring. Check out how they’re making trends their own so you can, too!

So Sheer

A ’90s staple, sheer fabrics are making a big comeback for day and night looks; the John Galliano show featured glam sheer gowns with a minimal spin. Borrow the show’s use of bralettes and add a pair of high-waisted jeans to make it more casual. (Photo via @n_agem)

Geometry Lessons

Lines, boxes, and shapes are everywhere this spring—the bolder the print and brighter the color, the better! Valentino‘s take on the classic striped dress shirt added boxy menswear for added edge. Get spring-ready with some pastel stripes and add some accessories for eye-catching detail. (Photo via @georgiacfashionista)

Pleats, Please

Trousers are back in full-force for spring, especially at the Kenzo show. The fall favorite goes perfectly with both structured blouses or flowy T-shirts—create a neutral spring look by mixing your favorite pair with an earth tone top and block-heel sandals. (Photo via @stylefromalexis)

White Before Labor Day

All white is a crisp look for spring and summer and keeps you cool as the seasons transition over. The Céline show incorporated the trend with lightweight and flowy suits—try our a pair of white trousers for this spring to wear two spring looks at once! (Photo via @chiaracherise)

Words, Words, Words

Graphic T-shirts have been in and out of style for a long time, but they are definitely having a moment right now. Stella McCartney‘s collection used words on experimental bodysuits and dresses, but you can definitely stick to your statement shirts to work with this trend for campus. (Photo via @typicaltuyen)

The Puffy Shirt

Statement sleeves are perfect to have in your wardrobe, whether you are crafting a look for the day or the evening. In Marques Almeida show, puffy sleeves were front and center. For your own look, try out a blouse with pleats, folds, and belts to get that added drama in your daily life. (Photo via @racfashions)

How are you making the runway looks your own? Show us on Instagram by tagging @cfashionista!

STYLE GURU STYLE: Suburban Urban

I think defining your sense of style in a few quick words might be one of the hardest things to do. I have tried for many years to discover where my style was headed, but it is difficult to pinpoint exactly, for it is always changing. One day I can feel inspired by a feminine skirt and blouse for my outfit, while other days I can sport a pair of boyfriend jeans and an oversized male T-shirt. With this eclectic type of inspiration, what exactly was my style? After a flip through my closet and some searching through my drawers, I have come to realize that my style is an urban-inspired collection of clothes worn by a very suburban girl.

From the oversize denim jackets, colored sneakers, and ripped jeans, to jogger pant sweats, and leather leggings; this style is overwhelmingly what I sport the most. If my Pinterest tags and posts don’t say enough, then my timberland booties and authentic leather jacket speak enough for themselves. In this specific outfit I chose, I’m sporting my typical go-to look.

A graphic hoodie printed with a reference to one of my favorite cities, New York, with a pair of fitted skinny jeans. I of course had to layer it with one of my statement outerwear pieces, which in this instance, was my army green bomber. To tie it all together, I paired my knee-high suede boots and a simple gold watch. Whether it is in the city streets of Temple’s Philly campus or back home on my suburban sidewalks, I am always strutting my true urban suburban style.

STYLE ADVICE: School Essentials

For most students, it is difficult balancing classes and fashion but this Fashionisto has mastered studying in style. Accessorizing in school supplies is the best way to be prepped for class and look on trend. At Illinois State University, transportation is essential and nothing is better than a penny board. They are small and fast enough to get to classes on time. As a bonus, the bright yellow wheels look superb! The time in between classes can be long and boring, so filling up those moments with some tunes is well worth it. Wearing a pair of headphones will help a college students day go faster and smoother.

While spring is just around the corner, so is the sunshine. Block out the haters and the UV rays with stylish tortoiseshell/green club master fitted sunglasses, worn by this Fashionisto. Keep them on hand to look chill and have some protection against the sun. Slip on some versatile Vans that are perfect for all seasonal occasions. He is wearing Vans primary mono authentic shoes in frost gray silver. Vans are classic and affordable for students and will always be on trend. The cool guy look is complete with a matching gray beanie hat and a basic pair of neutral skinny jeans.

The statement piece of this look is an armadillo crewneck sweatshirt originally from H&M. Unfortunately, this product is no longer in stock, but a very similar Dinosaur Print Loose Grey Sweatshirt is available at ROMWE. Graphic Prints on a crewneck sweatshirt is perfect especially ones with a southwestern vibe. This spring’s trend is southwestern flair, which is popular both for men and women. The zigzagging patterns and tribal inspired ensembles are going to be everywhere this season no matter the occasion. This style can be rocked on skater guys, school campus, and the runways.

FASHION FROM ABROAD: Tropical Vacation

This spring break, I decided to escape the 20-degree weather in NYC for something a bit more bearable (I am a Cali girl after all!). I flew down to Fisher Island, Florida, then to the Bahamas for a little R&R in the sun after a stressful midterm season. Needless to say, I was totally okay with missing out on the blizzard.

This academic year, I’ve been noticing a ton of graphics when it comes to fashion. Anything from funny phrases printed across T-shirts to cute cartoons on beanies or even fruit-themed embellishments on dresses can be found all over campus. So when I came across this fashionista strolling along the Floridian coast, I knew I had to ask where she found her adorable lime flip flops, embroidered hat, and striped tote (that colorful mini pom-pom cover-up of course caught my eye as well!).

This fun yet girly look pulls the graphics together perfectly by concentrating on fitting them into the details, such as the hat, the tote, and the shoes rather than the cover-up, which is the center of the outfit. It can be difficult to put several different graphics, especially when more than one of them includes wording because putting them too close together can cause the graphics to clash or the messages to get jumbled together, but this Fashionista pulled the look off seamlessly.

Pom-poms are especially big in resort wear right now, which we can see in details here, both in the hat and in the vertical line of the cover-up. They’re a fun way to add a little something extra to your look, whether you’re lounging by the pool or even just walking around exploring a new city in the sun!