Summer is over and it’s time to head back to campus. How can a collegiette slay during her first semester back? Trend-driven statement pieces, obvi! There is no need to purchase an entire new wardrobe; here are five stylish pieces that will take your outfits to the next level.
1. The bomber jacket
Do you want an alternative to your leather jacket? Bomber jackets are a staple piece that can help you recreate different looks over and over again. With tons of different colors and styles, this fun and flirty piece is a must-have this fall. It’s so versatile; you can totally wear it to class, work or a night out! Reinvent your look by pairing a stylish bomber jacket (we recommend one in an of-the-moment color, like this burgundy piece from ASOS, $39.41) with a vintage pair of jeans, classic ankle boots, a deep V-neck tee and simple jewelry.
2. Style comeback: bucket bags
Morgan Pitts, the creative mind behind cosMORGpolitan and #BlackGirlsWhoBlog, cannot stop raving about bucket bags for the upcoming season. The hippie-chic bag is back and we no longer have to beg our moms for hand-me-downs. “Bucket bags are a great choice to wear with a shirt dress,” Morgan says. For an effortless style that can be as dressy as you want it to be, you are guaranteed to turn heads with one of these updated classics, like this faux leather bag from Forever 21 ($24.90).
3. Raw denim
Denim has always been a go-to in every girl’s closest, but the new trend—frayed and distressed hems—will have all eyes on you. No matter whether you go for a light or dark shade, this laid-back touch will carry you through every season this year. Slip on your favorite pair of distressed denim—we’re loving the Cropped Boyjean from Madewell ($59.99)—and with a quick change of shoes and a new top, you can create plenty of outfits to get you through the week!
4. Lace-up ballet flats
Add more to a classic ballet flat with a pair of pointed lace-ups, like the Tie-Up Leather Ballerinas from Zara ($69.90) that will have you looking polished in no time. “Paired with a lace dress, they are elegance and comfort tied into one,” Morgan says. Plus, they go with almost everything! These shoes are already all over your Instagram feed; now, it’s time you join in on the fun!
5. Bold printed top
Wearing a bold print doesn’t mean wearing a print that’s all-out crazy. You can still sport a bold pattern that stands out in a classic way! Mix prints with this striped top from Topshop ($65) and a patterned midi skirt, or pair the piece with your favorite skinny jeans for a sleek streamlined look.
Get ready to be the most stylish collegiette on campus this fall! Whether you #DoItForTheInsta or you just love looking polished for class, these five pieces are the way to go.