outfit – CollegeFashionista

The Hidden Photo Gems of Old Sacramento

I’ve lived in Sacramento my whole life and it wasn’t until recently that I’ve learned to adore this city. I’ve seen it grow through culture, diversity, and community. This month I’ve decided to dedicate this post to a couple of great photo spots in Old Sacramento.

Old Sacramento is a historic section of Downtown Sacramento. Its riverfront attracted businessmen looking for opportunities and thus a commercial center grew in the area. What truly created the city of Sacramento was the Gold Rush in 1848. Now, Old Sacramento is a prime spot for a taste of Sacramento history and beautiful scenery.

My friend and I used these historical sites for an out-on-the-town photo shoot.

I’ve grown to appreciate the Tower Bridge, which connects West Sacramento to the Capitol. It looks beautiful both during the daytime and nighttime. To some, it may just be a bridge, but to fashion bloggers and photographers alike it becomes a perfect photo spot.

For this shoot, I wore a gingham two-piece set. I love how gingham has made its way up the ladder this summer. It’s the perfect summer print, turning old-school style into a modern-chic look. You can find the pants similar to ones I wore for this shoot here. I paired the pants with a crop top to create a two-piece outfit. Any gingham top works, however, try to make sure the top and bottom gingham prints are the same color. I wanted to dress up my look with a pair of block-heeled black sandals.

If you walk past the Tower Bridge, on the parallel side of Old Sacramento, you’ll see a ramp that takes you down to the Sacramento River. At night, it creates the perfect spot to view the illuminated golden bridge. During the day you’ll spot people on their boats, enjoying the river.

For all my Sacramento residents, what’s your favorite spot in the city? For all those who aren’t from Sacramento, what’s your favorite spot in your city? Let me know in the comments below.

To the Wynwood, to the Wall

I recently had the opportunity to go on a spontaneous trip to Miami, Florida, for a week with my best friend Bella. Let’s face it: it’s summer, everyone is itching to travel, and no one can pass up a round trip flight from Charlotte to Miami for $120!

So next thing we knew, we were on a flight to Miami. You would think that laying under the palm trees in Matheson Hammock Park and soaking up the sun on South Beach would be the most relaxing trip ever, and it was. But we were up and at it at 8:00 a.m. every morning running all over the city—and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!

When in Miami, one of our favorite spots to go to is the Wynwood Art District. It has an amazing night life scene with bars, great food, and fun people. The biggest reason why so many go to Wynwood is for the art displayed all over the area. Artists from every city you can think of go to Wynwood to paint gigantic murals on the walls for locals and tourists to come see. Of course, artsy places attract artsy fashion, so I was able to find this Fashionista, Bea, who was wearing a killer outfit.

Bea told be that her inspiration came from outfits she had seen in London, especially vintage pieces. It’s her dream to one day open her own boutique that features all kinds of vintage pieces and unique clothing items! Her outfit was perfectly color coordinated, with black and white centered around her striped pants. She wanted to keep the look simple by pairing the pants with a black tank and some white sneakers—a shoe that is really popular right now. She was able to make the look her own by stacking various golden necklaces on top of each other. She further accessorized with a super unique vintage hat and a cross body bag that is perfect for when you are on the go. This outfit is totally Insta-worthy.

If you are ever in the Miami area, Wynwood is definitely a fun place to go. If you want to show off a killer outfit but still enjoy your time, I would recommend going at around 4:00 p.m. This way you still have time for daylight pictures (and good parking), but then can continue to enjoy the night life scene!

Have you ever taken some cool pictures at Wynwood? Share them on Instagram by tagging @CFashionista!

The Perfect Back to School Outfit for the Procrastinating Fashionista

We’ve all encountered the draining and somewhat difficult process of getting ready for class every morning. For us ladies, these difficulties surface around everything you can possibly think of from our hair to our makeup and most importantly, our outfit. Sadly, these early morning struggles are soon approaching because school is back in session. However, that doesn’t mean we should start panicking and picking out our outfits a week in advance. But it does mean we should start getting ready to make sure we have a go-to outfit ready. A go-to-outfit is simple and enables you to conquer the day while looking your best. It can also help you out on the days when you are a procrastinating Fashionista.

For most of us, the semester will start off with pretty hot weather since we will still be in the summer. Luckily for us, we can use the lovely summer weather and take advantage of the ability to wear tank tops, shorts, and sandals. This also puts us at an advantage with the amount of time it’ll take us to get ready. The great weather will make this go-to-outfit a little more manageable and time-consuming than expected. This still gives us the option to dress up or down in a simple pair or shorts if we want, while still looking classy. It’s the perfect campus outfit that could also land you a job!

The outfit that I picked out as a go-to-outfit to start of the semester is composed of three simple basics: a tank, a pair of shorts, and a hat. Seems pretty ordinary, but looks quite extraordinary. It all started off with a simple white high neck tank that gave me the option to add some color and still show a bit of skin. I then added a pair of silky navy shorts. I continued on to my favorite part, the shoes. I didn’t hesitate to wear heels on campus because I am a lover of heels and anything that will keep me elevated. These clear pointy heels are trendy and elevate the whole look. To top off this look, I threw on a straw fedora with blue and red stripes. The red in the hat complemented my nails, and the blue complemented my shorts.

Adding on the straw hat completed this outfit. I was able to look cute, professional, and show up to class on time, which is what every go-to-outfit should achieve. When picking out go-to looks, just remember to keep these three factors in mind: simplicity, a pop of color, comfort. These shorts and tanks were great because they kept me cool in this hot weather. Keeping all these tools in mind will help you to create your very own go-to outfits.

What are some of your go-to-outfits? Show us your looks on Instagram by tagging @CFashionista.

5 Lessons I Learned From My First Year in College

Since school for most people is starting soon, I want to share the five lessons I learned from being a first-year student at the University of Washington. Even though going to college as an incoming freshman is exciting, it can be nerve-racking at the same time. Hopefully, my advice can help those who are feeling a bit anxious about entering college for the first time!

1—Not everybody is going to be the same as you. Back in high school, I usually surrounded myself with people who are similar to me. However, in college, I was exposed to many different personalities. Sometimes, I got frustrated whenever my college friends do not follow the same habits as me. But I learned to accept who they are because I realized that not everybody can be like me. Because of this, I became more open minded!

2—Dress well to not only impress but also feel less stress. College can be very tiring and even as a fashionista, I often found myself in a pair of sweatpants and a T-shirt. However, I learned that when I put an effort to wear a nice outfit, I feel happier because when you look good, you feel good. Thus, you become more motivated to do well in school! For example, a cute outfit can be like what I am wearing for this post! My look consists of a black off the shoulder top from American Apparel, denim shorts from Abercrombie & Fitch and Adidas shoes.

3—Join as many student organizations as you can. The best way to meet new people in college is to join clubs. Not only you are able to make new friends who share the same interests as you, but also to connect and create a network for finding internships and jobs. For instance, you can find business related organizations if you are a business major. Planning to pursue a career in the medical field? Join co-ed medical fraternities! The options are endless.

4—Take advantage of the school resources. Not many people know about the various resources available in college, so be sure to use them whenever you can! Some include academic advisors, tutoring, workshops for building resumes and counseling centers. These will make your school year a lot easier and smoother.

5—Always remember to relax and have fun. One of my biggest regrets is not reminding myself to take it easy and not let my grades dictate my life. I do not know about you but I get very stressed out about exams and homework. Because of this, I was not able to spend my first year in college to the fullest. Therefore, you should take breaks and do the activities you love, either it is playing a sport, reading a book or spending time with your friends!

Of course, these are from my personal experiences. What are some of the things you learn in college? Let me know in the comments below!

Take a Bite Out of Houndstooth This Summer

Dolce & Gabbana and Michael Kors, to name a few, are some of the houses that show their love for houndstooth in their fall runway lineups. But wait, what in the world is houndstooth?

What is houndstooth?

Houndstooth is a textile pattern that is created with two colors, usually black and white. It’s characterized by a series of broken checks. This pattern can give you a very professional and editorial look. But in this article, I’m going to show you how to work this sophisticated pattern into your everyday wardrobe!

I saw this skirt at a local thrift store and I instantly fell in love with its crisscrossed cut and fringed lining. Fashion houses are selling their houndstooth designs for hundreds of dollars, this skirt only cost me a whopping 10 bucks!

For this look, I’ve opted to go for chic and edgy. I’ve paired this skirt with a black mesh top from A’Gaci layered over a detailed bralette from Charlotte Russe. To finish off the look, I threw on some black, lace-up heels that I also thrifted, and a silver chain necklace from H&M.

I’ve found that it’s easiest to style houndstooth if you keep a minimal color palette. As you can see, I chose to stick with wearing head-to-toe black and white to maintain a plain base. This allows the skirt to really stand out and become the main focus of my outfit. While black and white can seem a bit boring, by selecting accessories that have special details such as straps or shiny metal, you can completely change your outfit into something that’s very fun and flirty.

Show us how you keep it chic and edgy by posting photos of your own looks and tagging @CFashionista on social media!

3 Stylish Outfits to Wear to Work

When was the last time that you looked forward to an interview, meeting, or new job, but had no idea what to wear? Dressing stylishly in professional settings can often prove to be rather tricky. You don’t want to look too casual, but you also fear coming across as just another applicant in the same white button-down, black pants, and black blazer. What if I told you there were ways that a Fashionista like you can incorporate personal style in your outfits, even in a professional setting?

1—High neck is high style. A mock neck or turtleneck top is conservative but also flattering if the fit is right. The best news is that this top style has been on-trend for some time, proving that you can be stylish without showing a lot of skin. If it’s too hot in the area that you’re in, go for a sleeveless version of this top, but bring along a nice sweater in case it gets chilly in the office.

2—All in the sleeves. Most everyone can agree that the same old white blouse is a bit boring after a while of wearing it to every interview or meeting. Mix it up a little by throwing on a top with sleeve detail. Bell sleeves are totally in style, and add a little something to simple black pants and pumps. If you want to play with the style side of the outfit even more, try pairing your top with heels in a matching color to create a cohesive outfit.

3—The style is in the jacket. Work style doesn’t always have to go all out in the core of the outfit. Sometimes, all it takes is adding a statement coat to tie it all together. Add some flare with a coat that features bell sleeves for a subtle yet stylish look. A striped blouse with black pants and pumps doesn’t take too much thought, but wearing a fashion-forward jacket amplifies style factor along with a number of compliments to come.

How do you add style to your work outfits? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

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The Coolest Summer Work Outfit

Dressing for the summer is all fun and games until Monday morning arrives and you have to get dressed to go to the office. The cute weekend dresses might not be appropriate for going to work but, as Fashionistas, we innovate to dress professionally, comfortably, and fashionably. Here is what I chose to wear for a conference at a Beach Resort in Brazil. I hope you will be inspired by this look.

The classic white button-down shirt is perfect for work. You can roll up the sleeves and still look professional and feel fresh. The skirt has a vibrant shade of blue that makes the whole outfit looks more fashionable and fun. At the same time, the skirt has the proper fitting and length to look appropriate for work.

For the accessories, I choose to be more discrete with small gold hoops and a medium white bag to look chic. I also opted to wear a classic pair of aviator sunglasses to protect my eyes and look fashionable and modern but not extravagant.

On my feet, I chose to wear my one true love: a pair of golden-heeled mule shoes. Mules are not only the new trend but are also versatile and comfortable. You can find them in all shapes and colors, including a type that looks chic and trendy for a work outfit. The golden pair is comfortable and perfect for the summer.

How do you dress to stay fashionable, professional, and comfortable for work during the summer? Let us know in the comments below!

Easy Breezy Beach Outfit

This easy breezy beach outfit is perfect for hitting the beach with friends and exploring those joyful little beach towns. Having an outfit that’s fashionable to wear over your bikini and go exploring after the beach is key for summer, especially when you’re a beach bum like me.

When shopping for summer clothes I like to look for pieces that are quick and easy and will look good on and off the beach. This summer I made sure to get a pair of white denim shorts because they are always an essential in my wardrobe. White denim shorts are easy to dress up and down with the right top and accessories. Also, white shorts help show off your new sun-kissed legs after spending a day at the beach.

I like to buy tops that are easy and breezy to keep the casual feel of summer in my outfit and also to not restrict what I wear underneath them. This top is perfect for wearing a bikini underneath because it won’t cling and create an unwanted outline. I also really love the detail of the tie on this top because it adds a nice rope texture to fit the beachy vibes.

As far as accessories I matched my belt and sandals to complement one another and bring out the brown in this outfit. You can’t go to the beach without a pair of great sunglasses! For jewelry, I prefer simple jewelry that makes a statement such as this double chain silver necklace that reminds me of sand dollars. I love my Pura Vida bracelets and wear them every day because they’re the perfect summer bracelet.

Put together an easy breezy beach outfit and share it with us in the comments or on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista!

How Fashion Channels Creativity and Confidence

Since birth, I have been immersed in the fashion industry. My parents have owned numerous clothing stores, and now they run a highly successful clothing company. Overall, I have learned so much from being surrounded by the industry my whole life. The most important thing I’ve discovered? Fashion is power, and it is one of the best ways to express yourself.

I love having the freedom to choose what I want to wear and how I want to wear it. Furthermore, I channel my creativity into my outfits. And the best part? You get to change it up every day, if not more than once in a day. Some days, sweatpants or joggers are the only way I’ll be able to semi-function. I might pair them with my Adidas sneakers and a crop top or sweatshirt for a comfy, yet not slouchy, look. Other days, I wake up on the right side of the bed and want to dress up. I might want to channel a cute and flirty look, be it in jeans with a blouse, or a dress and sandals.

The beauty of it all is that you don’t have to consistent, you can wear one trend on Monday and a completely different one on Tuesday. Additionally, it’s all about how you want to dress that day or night. No pressure, no rules (events excluded). Just you and your creativity. So, dress how you love, and feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. That confidence will give you the power to conquer your day, night, or even week.

Thus, the power of fashion is real. Trends sweep the nation. People convey messages and feelings through it. Think of all the graphic T-shirts you own. For example, I have a ton of feminist T-shirts, and about four months ago, I wore one on a plane. Three different women came up to me complimenting me on my shirt. I felt so confident in my shirt, and all the girl power it inspired. That shirt quickly became a favorite.

So, make a statement and don’t be afraid to dress how you want. The happiness and inspiration it produces are so important. Individual expression is necessary in a world filled with billions of people. Here’s to fashion and all the amazing ideas, confidence, and power it creates!

How do you express yourself through fashion? Let me know in the comments below!

How to Choose Your Go-To Summer Looks

Since summer is coming to an end, I thought it was a good idea to show my favorite go-to looks I’ve been wearing this season. Casual, trendy, and comfortable are the words I would use to describe my style. I hope you enjoy these looks and get a sense of my style!

This look is a perfect look for a hot summer day. Graphic T-shirts are always my go-to when I want to look casual but also trendy. This graphic T-shirt is from Brandy Melville. I love the saying and how it’s a perfect crop fit. The shorts from Free People are high-waisted with adorable zippers on the front. Definitely a casual look, but these shorts are nothing like your average pair of jean shorts and add a nice chic look to the outfit. I finished off the look with a pair of white Converse, that seem to always be in style.

My next look is for those not-so-hot summer days where the sun doesn’t seem to want to come out. My cargo pants are from American Eagle. They are the ideal pants for summer days when you’re over wearing leggings. They’re super lightweight and comfortable. I am obsessed with anything olive green and believe that the color should be worn more all year round. I topped it off with a simple black tank top. My accessories included two of my favorite gold necklaces. I love the simple layered look. Hoops are definitely the most popular earrings to wear right now, so I wore thin gold hoops. My aviators, which were the finishing touch, always seems to complement any of my outfits.

My last look is chic and cool. I got the inspiration while in the city and made up the perfect streetwear look. These are my favorite jeans in my closet. They are from Free People and the two-toned distressed look makes them stand out. The bodysuit I’m wearing is from Mystique Boutique. I usually find bathing suits uncomfortable and I definitely do not wear them often, but this one is soft and more comfortable than I thought it was going to be. My sneakers are Adidas. If I could wear these 24/7 I would. Sneakers are my favorite type of shoe and I love wearing them with nice pieces. Last but not least, my necklace. To dress up the look more, I wore a long silver, blue, and purple beaded necklace with a beautiful crystal at the end. It was a piece to pull this look together. Long necklaces are an excellent way to spice up any outfit and dress up a plain top.

What are your three go-to summer looks? Show us on social media and don’t forget to tag @CFashionista.