We’ve all wanted to be that girl. The one who passes us in her trench coat, riding boots, and aviators while we take a second look at our leggings and oversized sweater. I know that sometimes we just need a break from actually having to try, hence my personal tradition of yoga-pants Fridays, but for Try-Days, here is a list of the perfect 10 items to invest in that will effortlessly make you the trendsetter, not the passerby.
1. A tailored trench coat. Take on the red trend without buying a dress that you’ll only wear one time. This red Michael Kors trenchcoat is first on my “to-buy” list. You could throw it on over your pajamas and still look like you’re in the fashion business.
2. Riding boots. Ralph Lauren makes great riding boots that match with almost any jacket and make any outfit look polished. Pair the boots with leggings and the jacket pictured above and rock a comfortably chic style.
3. Aviators. Similar to the pair that the Michael Kors model is sporting, aviators paired with fall apparel portray a subtle look, not an overstated look like the big circular frames that were hot this summer. I personally prefer Ray-Bans, but you can opt for a cheaper pair and still give off the same vibe.
4. High-waisted jeans. Pair these Sevens jeans with a short jacket over one of your summer crop-tops to give off an effortless, yet put-together vibe.
5. Raingear. Michigan has felt like Seattle more this fall than ever before. Make sure you don’t put style to the side on rainy days with Hunter boots. Ashley Olsen paired hers with skinny jeans and an oversized jacket.
6. A cute book-bag. I am ever guilty of being a backpack lover. But when I was a sophomore, I decided to invest in a Longchamp, and I have to say, when I carry that instead of my old Northface backpack that I’ve had since senior year of high school, I always feel more confident. Not a fan of Longchamp? Marc Jacobs also makes cute totes that fit plenty of books!
7. Versatile heels. Wear them to a party. Use them the next morning for a presentation. Every girl needs an expensive pair of heels that will last long, be as comfortable as heels will allow, and transfer over a multitude of events. I prefer these Jessica Simpson pumps because they are a statement piece, but would still match with a lot of outfits that I already have!
8. Sequin skirts. As if we didn’t see enough sparkle last winter, sequins are making their way into Express and Forever 21 (every Michigan collegiette’s ™ go-to stores) early this year. I personally love this blue sequin skirt from Forever 21. Pair it with a plain black tank top the next time you go out.
9. Bangles and statement necklaces. Don’t know what to do to make bland fall colors look more trendy? Pair it with colorful, bright bracelets or a bold, long necklace. If you’re like me and always lose your jewelry, don’t spend a lot on these pieces, try these affordable accessories from JCPenny’s.
10. Red Lipstick. I’ve tried out red lipstick a few times this fall, but always just with a plain black dress. Pair it with any of the looks above for a bold look. Red lipstick adds an instant high-fashion vibe to almost any look when worn correctly. Leighton Meester caught on to the red-trend that dominated the Emmy’s Red Carpet early this year, donning red lips and a red dress during fashion week.