We can open any magazine or walk into our favorite stores and ogle over all the trends for Spring 2011. Cat-eye sunglasses, bellbottoms, lace tops. Often enough though, late nights at the library or weeknight bar specials have us grabbing sweatpants or jeans as a go-to outfit: a look that requires little thought. Here are five of the top trends for spring re-worked for the college student, so you can look and feel fabulous without wasting the money or brainpower.
- Color, color, and more color
This may be the easiest way to update your wardrobe for spring without having to spend time creating an outfit, especially when you should be cramming for an exam instead. There really is no one color standing out for spring, so the more and the brighter, the better. Throwing on a colored item that you already own, like a pink pashmina, red flats, or a teal top to give an outfit a pop that’s fit for any sunny day. Check out this outfit from JCrew that incorporates the pink and sunglasses, while still being comfy cute.
- Sunglasses
While cat-eye sunglasses reminiscent of the 60s and 70s are trendy for spring, their shape is not as classic as the aviator or wayfarer. I would recommend sticking to the classics with this one, and opting for the timeless shapes instead of splurging on a trendier style. Discount stores like Marshalls and T.J. Maxx offer designer sunglasses at lower prices (I cannot get enough of Betsey Johnson shades!) so save more with a shape that may go out of style quickly. Accessories like sunglasses are a quick way to pull together an otherwise regular outfit (and your eyes will thank you).
- 60s Ladylike—a call to the curves
Think Christina Hendricks in Mad Men for a look that accentuates curves. Instead of spending hard-earned cash on new styles, it is just as simple to get the desired effect by cinching the waist with a belt or tucking in your shirt. The same skinny belts that have been in for the past few seasons (of which I have a few of, courtesy of J.Crew) can be worn higher at the waist; and, even if the belt itself is big enough to be worn at the hips, try tying the ends in an effortless knot to achieve said width.
- Minimalism
This has to be my favorite trend because I can put my straightener down and play up my natural hair texture (did I mention it takes me at least twenty minutes to straighten my hair?). Minimalism doesn’t only go for beauty this season, as ruffles are taking the backseat to clean lines and silhouettes. You won’t have to fuss with what trendy styles go with one another since more simple pieces are in (and way more comfortable!).
- White
Don’t you love how fashion can contradict itself? Just as bold colors are standing out for the spring and summer, white is also making an appearance. I’m not complaining, considering the number of white tees I own and how little they cost. Dress up a simple tee with funky 70s-esque jewelry or wear it with wide-leg jeans and voila, Kate Hudson ala Penny Lane. All you’ll need is the guitar.