Fall is here, and with it come blazers and boots, jeans and knits, sleeves and scarves. But don’t pack up your hot weather wardrobe just yet: here at Her Campus we’ll show you how to mix the coolest campus trends for fall with some summer staples that are far from ready for hibernation.
Let’s start with the new stuff; last fall’s flannel plaids are losing ground to sheer blouses in pastel hues. American Apparel (on Richmond between Prince Al’s and Taphouse) has some beautiful choices, but if you’re on a budget Value Village is a good place to start turning someone else’s trash into your treasure. Pair your pastel blouse with tights or skinny jeans for a dressed down look, or tuck it into a pair of high wasted shorts layered over nylons for a flattering, waist cinching silhouette. If you’re looking to add some curve to your bottom half, choose a pair of shorts with pleats in the back and on the sides. Braided
belts aren’t a new trend, so chances are you’ve got one kicking around your closet. Use it to create a waist when wearing your blouse untucked over jeans or tights. Add a fitted blazer and you’re office chic.
In the shoe category, we have two words: peep-toe boots! They might seem impractical, but when it comes to footwear functionality always forfeits to style, and there’s just something irresistibly sexy about a peep-toe. A black boot is classic and, like other neutral shades (brown, gray and beige) it goes with everything. But if you really want to stand out, opt for an animal print, such as cheetah and zebra. If you do go with a print boot, find a matching belt for a really put together look. Layer leg warmers over your tights and under your booties on a chilly day; we can’t promise your toes won’t be cold but your calves will be toasty warm. Substitute tube socks for leg warmers if you’re so inclined.
Now for that summer stuff you can’t bring yourself to pack away: rompers and frocks in floral prints, jean shorts and moccasins. The key to stretching these items into fall is layering, layering, layering! Tights look as lovely under frocks and rompers as they do under shorts, but if you want more detail, opt for thick nylons in patterned weaves. A three-quarter sleeved black shirt under sleeveless rompers and dresses will keep you warm and stylish, and a blazer over both makes you look instantly professional. We see more and more UWO-ettes wearing tube socks under moccasins and loafers Michael Jackson style these days, so pick up a cheap department store pair or raid your dad’s closet if you can, and while you’re there look for a pair of thin suspenders you can attach to those jean or cotton high wasted shorts. This season is all about incorporating menswear into your wardrobe to contrast with feminine pieces.