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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Ohio U chapter.

The fashion industry is constantly changing. Each generation has helped fashion evolve and mutate, allowing almost anything to pass for fashionable. I love that fashion can be used as a tool to show your own individual personality. Here are my favorite fashion trends and styles that match my vibe. 

Turtlenecks

Here’s a throwback to middle school, where Bobby Jack and orange foundation were the hottest trends. My mom LOVED turtlenecks, the type of love that has to be incorporated in every outfit. She tried to convince me many times to wear one, but I thought that was SUPER lame because of the current fashion environment. Today I am absolutely obsessed with them and am always finding new innovative ways to wear them. Turtlenecks can take a plain short-sleeve shirt look to a whole new level. Black is definitely my go-to clothing color, and wearing a black turtleneck underneath a leather jacket has become my signature outfit. 

Colored Purses 

As mentioned above, my go-to color is usually black. However, I am a strong believer in always adding a pop of color to your outfits. I don’t usually carry purses or even feel a need to. But that changed when I found a vintage green purse from my mom’s closet, and I did what any 19-year old would. I took it and started carrying it everywhere. The beauty of carrying a vibrant-colored purse is no matter what outfit your wearing, you’ll always have a pop of color to take your outfit to the next level. I feel like a lot of people gravitate towards plain-colored purses, which are fine and are usually very cute. But, colored bags can really illuminate your personality. Since I started carrying my mom’s purse, it’s constantly a conversation piece whenever I go out in public or hang out with friends. Carrying my purse has turned my belief of purses being for younger, more mature adults into purses being for everyone regardless of age. 

Sweater Vests

Sweater vests have always been a popular trend, in my opinion, but until more recently did I start using them in my style. Like turtlenecks, sweater vests can be layered and add a unique element to a basic outfit. More recently, plaid and striped vests have become popular, and my personal favorite outfits incorporate a collared shirt under them. Pairing a low-cut checkered sweater vest over a collared shirt with cuffs can serve as a comfy yet fashionable look. An oversized sweater vest can even make for a very fun summer outfit if paired with an oversized shirt. Sweater vests can be worn in many more ways than one, making them the perfect trend for a college student on a budget. 

Chunky Boots

Now my goth side may be coming out a bit when I say chunky platform boots can make anyone look like an edgy boss babe. This trend has become very popular, allowing many companies to put their own twist to the boot. You can find combat platform chunky boots, lace-up hiking chunky boots, chunky thigh-high boots, or even just a classic pair of black chunky boots. Either way, pairing a chunky black boot with your outfit can not only make you look like a boss babe, but you’ll also feel like one. As soon as I purchased a pair of plain chunky boots, I felt an INSTANT confidence boost. 

Printed Belts 

I feel like this year has really showcased the younger generations’ fascination with animal-printed clothing. Whether it be cow printed jeans, snakeskin boots, or even cheetah print tops, this trend has bounced back like never before. I have always loved animal printed clothing, but if I’m being honest, I don’t usually incorporate many animal printed things into my daily outfits. However, more recently, I have started to buy animal-printed belts, and let me tell you, I think I’m on to something! Often when someone wears a piece of clothing that is animal printed, it’s very bold and eye-catching. Which can be a good thing and a bad thing. I like to blend in while also standing out. Adding an animal printed belt to a plain outfit can take the whole look to a new level while at the same time keeping it classy and cool. 

Boho Bandeau Headbands

This last accessory isn’t really considered a trend amongst many people, but it is to me. A couple of months ago, I decided to get wispy bands, which I’m obsessed with, but they can be hard to maintain. When I wake up in the morning, I hope for minimal effort when getting ready. Whether I’m having a bad hair day or just want to put my hair into braids, my bandeau headband has saved me countless times. I love the headbands from Natural Life because the material is stretchy yet grips onto my hair perfectly. I try to incorporate my hippie personality into my clothing, and these boho headbands definitely allow me to do that. 

Emily Squance is a sophomore at Ohio University studying communications in the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. She is an active member of Variant Magazine and Active Minds. She likes to spend her time outside hiking with friends and listening to a broad range of music. Her words to live by are "treat people with kindness and compassion." : )
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