Back-to-school shopping is one of my favorite times of the year. I love the feeling of bringing home new shopping bags full of fresh fall styles. Of course, being a college student, things have changed a bit since the days of stocking up on glittery pink tank tops from Limited Too (or when everything in my closet had to have “Abercrombie” plastered across it!). Now, things tend to be a bit more… complicated. To make things a bit easier, I find it helpful to put together a list of essential seasonal items and then plan my outfits using these key pieces.
1. Wear blazers over everything!
The blazer has become a quintessential staple in any collegiette’s™ wardrobe. It provides a classy finishing touch, and can really pull an outfit together. I love blazers in fun colors, like this robin’s egg blue. When transitioning from fall into winter, the blazer can be worn over skirts, shorts, leggings, and eventually jeans. Snow pants, however… not so much.
2. Add a pop of red!
Red, including an orangey-red, is the “it” color this season. My personal favorite is a red three-quarter length pant paired with a mix of different neutrals. The easiest way to use this look, however, especially for those wary of the brightest reds, is to buy a red handbag or wear red jewelry. I’ve also noticed that a leopard pattern tends to look great with this red, so don’t be afraid to go all out with bold prints!
3. Try out maxi/long skirts.
The great thing about these skirts is that you never have to worry about sitting or bending over (I’m all about comfort over cuteness). But if you’re really bold, you can opt for the up-and-coming trend of see-through maxi skirts. Also, notice a pattern with the pop of color?
4. Ponchos and baggy sweaters, oh so in!
This perfect throw-on sweater for fall takes casual to new fashion heights, especially when paired with a skinnier bottom, like leggings (or, dare I say it… jeggings). The slim bottoms makes the otherwise seeming lack of shape disappear. Another way to show you’re shape? Try a skinny belt cinched right above the waist. Now just throw on some cute boots,and you’re ready for class.
5. Throw on some large, chunky bangles.
A final thought: don’t be afraid to pair different patterns, textures, and colors this fall. A good rule of thumb I learned this summer is that if an outfit doesn’t completely clash, then it probably doesn’t look half-bad.
Photo Sources:
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