Dreading Your Early Morning Class? Try These 3 Outfit Hacks

Oh, the joys of an early morning class. I was such a morning person before I came to college. It was no problem to wake up at 6 a.m. and get ready for school. But when I came to college, it was a whole different ballgame. It was not as easy as walking downstairs to eat breakfast and driving to school. You have to walk to the dining hall, and then still walk across campus to class—basically waking up 30 minutes earlier.

PHOTO: Michelle Szczech

My first semester, I did not willingly take an 8 a.m. class—I had a mandatory University Perspectives class. As if it wasn’t hard enough getting up and getting dressed, it was also an eight-week class that started in the middle of the semester. But don’t worry: I learned that you can still wake up early and dress cute and comfortably. Here are a few outfits even you can throw on at 7 a.m.!

1—Athleisure. This is my favorite trend. The athleisure style is when you dress like you’re going to the gym, but you don’t actually go. Nice, right? All you need is a pair of leggings and some tennis shoes. By now, almost every major store carries some type of athleisure attire.

2—Mom jeans Mom jeans got their name because you got them from the best store—your mom’s closet! These are my favorite kind of jeans because they aren’t super tight. You can wear these all day without dying to take them off. I love mom jeans because they give me more mobility than skinny jeans, but they are nicer than leggings. These high-waisted jeans were popular in the ’90s.

3—Boyfriend jeans. Boyfriend jeans are similar to mom jeans in that they are looser than skinny jeans. However, in some cases, they are tighter than mom jeans. They first came on the scene in the ’60s. They’re very baggy and they are usually made with a harder type of denim.

Leave your super tight leather pants at home, because chances are you’ll opt for something more comfortable on those early mornings before class.

What do you like wearing to class? Show us on social media, and don’t forget to tag @CFashionista!

How to Keep up With This Year’s Fashion Trends

Fashion is interesting because it is always repeating. We go back in time, decade by decade, and pick out our best looks from that era. Whether you’re an early adopter, the early majority, or a laggard, you’ve most likely seen recurring styles. The summer trends of 2017 consist of bright pops of color, mom jeans, raw edges, and gingham—so much gingham.

Black and white are colors that you should always keep as basics in your closet, but this summer we’ve branched out on our fashion and embraced accent colors. We are slowly letting go of our all-black wardrobe, and heading towards the ’70s look. We’ve already been seeing a lot of bold yellows and reds as our fashion colors, then we have pink and greens as accent colors. Art exhibits, buildings, street style, psychology, music, movies, and so many more things inspire us every day. This is how we get our current colors.

This next trend was taken from the ’90s: mom jeans.

The ’90s started coming back last year. This year we’ve already started looking back at the ’70s, but some ’90s classics have managed to stick around. With shows like Friends still taking part in our daily dose of TV, it’s easy to look at Monica Geller or Rachel Green and think yes, I want those pants. These mom jeans go with almost everything, so it’s hard to let them go.

The next trend is gingham, this summer’s hottest trend. This one is easy to find out on the streets of the city. If you own anything gingham, keep it, because this trend will be sticking around for a while. You can wear a gingham dress, bathing suit, top, pants, you name it, and it looks great on everyone.

Hopefully, now you know a few simple ways to spot the upcoming and current trends.

So would you consider yourself an early adopter, the early majority, or a laggard? Show us on Instagram and don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista!

Retro Style Revival from My Mom’s Closet

We all have heard our mothers talk about what they used to wear at our age, and we’ve all heard them tell us that everything comes back into style, so it was no surprise when we started seeing vintage style denim everywhere. Luckily for me, my mom had been cleaning out her closet and offered me a few denim pieces that she no longer wore. I’m not even kidding when I say I heard angels sing when I dug up this pair of jeans.

It was love at first sight with these acid wash Guess jeans. I quickly ran to squeeze in them, thinking of potential outfits as I was zipping the ankle zippers.

I wanted to keep my mom in mind when creating a look so I kept jewelry really simple with my gold hoop necklace because she always wears gold hoop earrings, and I paired it with a single gold strand bracelet that she gave me.

While keeping things simple, I wore black ankle-strap sandals. I knew these would give my look the extra “oomph” I was looking for.

For the top, I’m really loving the ribbed, lettuce edge tops that I’ve been seeing all over Pinterest and Instagram. Then, to add a little more on-trend action, I chose a top that was off-the-shoulder. The way this top sits on the shoulders gives me added vintage vibes that I loved. I totally felt Sandy’s Grease vibes during “You’re the One That I Want.”

Denim is one of those pieces you can style effortlessly and will always be in your closet. I never thought I’d wear acid wash jeans, but these were practically heaven sent.

Show us how you’re wearing vintage denim by tagging @CFashionista on Instagram!

Trend Alert—Fishnet Is Your Friend

With summer upon us, it can be easy to settle into a uniform of shorts and a top. While surely all of us will be donning those staples from time to time, adding a little flair to your summer ensemble can help you stand out and look extra on-trend. Cue fishnet. From Instagram models to stylists, fishnet is becoming a chic and modern way to add contrast to an outfit. This versatile trend is spreading fast, so whether you prefer a dressed down look with jeans and sneakers or an edgy way to amp up a look for a night out, fishnet gives you an instant cool-factor. Check out three ways to rock this sensational, easy trend!

1—Fishnets and jeans. Pairing fishnet tights with jeans is an easy but unique way to get a trendy look for those days when going casual is a must. Try pairing fishnet tights with high-waisted mom jeans for an understated yet surprising ensemble. For a grungier look, pair a cropped band T-shirt with some heeled booties or go more feminine with a cropped off-the-shoulder top and a choker. You can even rock these with some denim shorts and a relaxed sweatshirt.

This Fashionista paired her fishnet with a cropped, off-the-shoulder black top and a gold choker.

2—Fishnets and sneakers. If you want a look that’s casual but functional, opt for the simple but fun fishnet socks. Slipping this little detail on with a pair of Adidas Superstars, Converse, or even mules can give your whole outfit an extra flair while remaining practical and simplistic. Pair with some cropped and frayed jeans or opt for rolled up mom jeans for a relaxed look that is perfect for summer!

This Fashionista paired hers with Adidas Superstar sneakers and cropped denim shorts.

3—Fishnets and heels. Slipping some fishnet socks or tights underneath a good pair of heels and a dress can vamp up an otherwise ordinary going-out ensemble. Try wearing ankle-buckling heels or simple black pumps with your go-to little black dress for a timeless yet en vogue look.

Go all-out with sky-high black heels like this Fashionista did or keep it comfortable with heeled booties.

Whether you want to go casual or play dress up, the fishnet trend has you covered! It’s sure to add a feminine, chic pop to your look. For an easy, year-round way to enhance any ensemble, fishnet is your new go-to.

Can you think of new ways to rock the fishnet trend? Comment below or tag us @Cfashionista on social!

What I Learned About Fashion in the Fashion Capital of the World

I recently studied abroad in Milan, Italy with a focus on fashion business and supply chains. As you probably already know, Milan is world renowned for its role in setting trends and being home to infamous luxury brands (ever heard of Gucci, Prada, Armani, and Versace?). I couldn’t wait to compare American trends and style to Italian fashion, and I’m excited to report my findings today! Luckily, I also did some shopping in Milan so I could bring some Italian inspiration to the US!

The first thing I noticed in Milan is that trend and style are extremely important. Everyone (and I mean everyone) follows the trend once it’s established there. In contrast, in the U.S., we have many different variations of what we consider stylish. Think about style types such as preppy, hipster, grunge, girly, athleisure, etc.—all of these are considered fashionable in their own way. In fact, you could walk down the street and see an example of each one of these styles in a short time. This is not the case in Milan. Each person I saw there followed the basic uniform of dress as set by Italian trends.

So what is this uniform exactly?

Let’s go from bottom to top. First, all Italians wore sneakers! I saw all different types of brands, but I noticed the classic Adidas were the most popular. Also, I loved how many people added fun socks to enhance their look!

Next is the pants, my personal favorite. There is no shortage of jeans in Milan, and as an avid wearer of the boyfriend cut, I was in heaven when I saw that it’s super popular there. I also spotted mom jeans, wide legged pants, and even some dressier style pants. No matter what type of bottoms though, they all had something in common: they were all ankle cut. I think this is so appropriate and necessary to the trend, because it lets the sneaker and sock combo shine!

Lastly, you’re probably wondering how they finished the look with their tops, and it’s quite simple actually. The basic recipe is a plain T-shirt or tank paired with a cute jacket, which lets the look remain casual while being simultaneously trendy. I observed tons of different types of jackets, including jean jackets, bomber jackets, leather jackets, you name it! This is definitely the part of the outfit that the Italians were able to be most creative with.

Overall, the trends I learned about while studying abroad in Milan are so cute, and I’m glad I brought back some pieces that’ll let me style my outfits this way at home in the US! The sneakers, casual fit pants, and plain shirt with a jacket basic uniform are what all Italians wore; it’s a casual look that allows for tons of mix-and-matching for a comfortable and trendy look!

What elements of Italian fashion will you incorporate in your next outfit? Let us know in the comments below!

WHAT TO WEAR: Thrifty Threads

In the spirit of Mother’s Day, let’s pay some homage to the greatest mom wardrobe staple to be passed down to our generation. This Fashionista snagged her pair of mom jeans from the thrift store for under a dollar! But if “thrifting” for the genuine thing doesn’t work out for you, you’re still in luck—mom jeans are everywhere, and they come in so many styles, from the classic pair to the more urban look of distressed black denim.

Now to top off your “new” jeans. School’s out, summer is so in, and the best way to celebrate is to pull your favorite crop top out of your closet to bask in the sunlight. Crop tops are a perfect pairing for high-waisted pants, and this Fashionista contrasted her denim with a knit halter top. The pastel is perfect for the upcoming season, and the thicker fabric is great for the days when it still feels like spring. To make this outfit more interesting, add an accent belt. A skinny belt like her black one works, but don’t be afraid to go bigger and bolder!

To finish off your look, don’t forget a stand-out pair of sunnies to complete your vibe. Get some round frames or go even more retro with a heart shape. And last but not least, this is your perfect opportunity to bust out the old sneakers; the more beat up the better if you want a vintage look. This Fashionista used her favorite pair of Vans, but those Converse you haven’t put on for a few months would work perfectly.

BEAUTY BAR: Skin in Bloom

The foundation to beauty is skin—healthy, glowing, luminous skin. There’s no better time to up your skin game than dewy, humid spring days. Toss the pore strips and harsh chemical scrubs to the side. It’s time to let your face breathe. Instead of layering on the foundation, concealer, bronzer, highlight, and blush, take advantage of the fresh air and let your skin do its thing—naturally.

Focus on moisturizers and serums to build a bare skin beauty, which will make for a low maintenance summer beauty routine. Stick to unscented, undyed products designed to nourish your pores. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, visit a dermatologist to get a professional recommendation, personalized for your complexion. This Fashionista is rocking her nearly-naked skin with tastefully winged eyeliner, natural brushed brows, and a baby pink feathered lip. She has achieved the bright, youthful glow we all aspire to.

Simple beauty looks are complemented by streamlined outfits. This Fashionista is radiating some major cool girl vibes as she makes her way home from class. Her fitted top is offset by her comfy mom jeans. Her belt and sneakers add just the right amount of personalization to an otherwise basic ensemble. Sometimes the most simple outfits can be the most flattering, but remember never to compromise your personal style.

Be sure to acquire a few unique pieces in your closet that you can toss into an otherwise basic outfit. These pieces are what give your style an unprecedented flair. Whether it’s a western-printed belt or gold chrome details on your sneakers, select a couple of quirky items that set your wardrobe apart from the rest.

Is It Possible to Wear Mom Jeans Without Looking Like a Mom?

It seems like just yesterday that I would rather be caught dead than to be seen in something from my mother’s closet. After all, she took advantage of the gaucho trend for way too long. Who would have thought that just 10 years later, I’d be scavenging through her old boxes from 1993 to find the perfect pair of vintage Levi’s. While I still don’t necessarily want to look just like my mom, I can admit that her 30-something taste in denim was pretty much on par with mine in 2017.

So, how can I make that happen? How is it possible to wear mom jeans and not look exactly like your mom? We do have the same genes after all (no pun intended). The trick lies in the top. Just because you’re wearing denim from the late ’80s doesn’t mean the rest of your outfit has to match that decade.

To make differentiating a little bit simpler, here’s a few of this season’s best and brightest tops to pair with the mom jeans you recently inherited.

The Tube Top

Boyce Top by Babaton in white, $50.00, Available at Aritzia

The Bra Top

Cicile Crop in canary by House of Sunny, £30.00, Available at House of Sunny

The Button-Up

Wide Open Neck Top with Puffy Sleeves in white/green by Zara, $49.90, Available at Zara

The White Cotton Top

Blanca Ruffle Blouse by Article&, $65.00, Available at Article&

The T-Shirt Top

L’Amour Sucks Tee by Rarely, $79.00, Available at Lisa Says Gah

When your mom’s closet doesn’t do the trick, head over to these quick-stop denim shops to pair with your new collection of mom jean worthy tops.

Dusters Jean in old blue by Rolla’s, $105.00, Available at Article&

Mom Jean Poster Boy in white by BDG, $59.00, Available at Urban Outfitters

High Rise Relaxed Fit Jeans in blue by Zara, $69.90, Available at Zara

How are you wearing mom jeans like a “cool mom”? Show us on social by tagging @Cfashionista!

BEAUTY BAR: Spring Sparkles

I will be the first to admit that I am by no means a beauty guru. Sure, I occasionally wear makeup, but the extent of my “beauty routine” is simply washing my face, slapping on some light eyeshadow and mascara, occasionally accompanied by some various shades of lipstick—no highlighter or contouring, just the basics. The reason for this is isn’t because I don’t admire those who are gifted in their ability of makeup artistry, but because I just simply do not have the patience to do my makeup.

However, I will also admit that I envy as well as admire those who do take the time and have the skills to do their makeup, and am always on the lookout for those individuals on campus because, quite frankly, I find their appearance as well as skills captivating. So as I was enjoying the warmer weather and walking around Market Square recently, I was thrilled to run into this Fashionista. Not only because of her chic street style look (you know you’re digging the army green sweater, crop top, and mom jeans combo as much as I am!), but also because of her gorgeous makeup look, which also kept true to this outfit’s earthy vibe.

Though this look is very relaxed and casual, it is also very put together. I loved how this Fashionista chose simple, neutral, and earthy colors for her look, which I feel is a great touch for spring. By making these choices, this Fashionista really let her makeup look take center stage. What I adored most about her makeup look is how she blended the different hues of purple and gold eye shadow so perfectly on her eyes, as well as adding some extra shimmer by adding a triangle of gold sequins. And, of course, to finish off her beautiful spring look, this Fashionista paired the perfect shade of blush and lipstick to really tie this look together.

STYLE GURU STYLE: Simple Saturday

On the weekends, sometimes it’s nice to wake up and start the day with something to put you in a good mood. For me, that’s going to the farmers’ market. This was the first of the season, so I figured I had to go.

It’s just starting to get a little warmer, with the spring season around the corner, so it was the perfect opportunity to wear my slouchy cardigan that can fit over pretty much anything. It’s perfect for the transitioning seasons, keeping me warm, but also leaving room for a bit of wind to cool me off. A cardigan is such a nice staple to have, as you can wear it over a simple dress, basic T-shirt, or anything else, really. It was the complementary addition to my plain black tube top, which is also the perfect staple for any season.

It can be worn so many different ways, but here, I paired it with my favorite jeans that I picked up from a thrift store. They are such a classic denim piece, that I decided to cut them and let them fray a little in the wash, to give off that “worn in” look. They are extremely comfortable and easy to move around in with the looser fit. I like to add neck scarves to simple looks like these; I feel like they pull the look together, by adding something a bit more colorful and interesting. This is another piece I picked up at a thrift store, and have worn more times that I can count.

I love the endless possibilities of clothing. The thought of someone wearing a garment and styling it certain ways, before you come across the same piece, and decide to style it your own way, is insanely cool; it adds so much character to the item.