Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Fall for Fashion: It's Back to School


Fall for Fashion: It’s Back to School
By: Carlene Morillo

The time that you have been wishing away all summer has arrived. Yup, it’s back to school time! But do not get too down about it because, with a change of season, comes a change in wardrobe.
The first change that you need to make in your wardrobe is to your outerwear. There is no way to survive a cool fall without a warm coat. The ¾-sleeve trend is making its mark this season, as are the wool and trench coats. As fashionable as it may be, however, it is not practical to wear ¾-sleeved coats and expect to be warm. So, to make it more functional, pair your coat with a pair of elbow-length gloves. Another way to keep warm (or should I say cool), is to wear a motocross leather jacket. If you are looking for something warmer, you can always go for a colored fur coat. Please, make it faux fur though; there is no need to harm innocent animals to look and feel hot.


Of course you cannot just wear a coat –you need something underneath. In addition to your jacket, you can relay on a sweater for a little extra warmth. Cardigans are still hitting it big, and so are knitted sweaters, but of course not the type your grandma would wear. Many chic-knits are on the market this year but, for a more formal look, a fitted blazer, inspired by menswear, would do the trick. Speaking of outerwear tops, a ruffled, Victorian-styled blouse would look good under a fitted blazer as well as a vest. For a casual day, a button-down flannel shirt is a good option.


And since those tops need bottoms, the skinny jeans phenomenon continues with a twist. High-waist, skinny jeans are going to be a big hit this fall, so run out to get yours. You can also go for the wide-leg trousers, if you want more comfort. Just because it is not summer anymore, it does not mean that you cannot wear a skirt. Pencil skirts and flared mini skirts are very fall fashion. Wear it with a colored tight for a splash of color and to keep warm.


Now let’s talk about shoes, my favorite topic. The new shoe styles to immerge into this season are strappy, leather, studded boots and peep-toe booties. Also, black and white oxford menswear-inspired pumps can make a grand statement with the right outfit. As for boots, rider boots from last year can still be worn this fall. High, or just the regular short moccasins are also among the new trends.


Oh, and you cannot forget a fabulous bag to go with your outfit! Patten leather has been the material of choice for most designers. Shiny metal buckles are also a big fad. So you cannot go wrong with anything made of patent leather with buckles. These bags are really cute for lugging around your books this semester. To compliment your bag, you can get a thin leather belt to wear high on your waist. So, remember, if you just invest in a couple of these marvelous items, you can be sure to be the talk of campus…in a good way.

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