This post is courtesy of our fashionable friends at CollegeFashion.net. Have you checked them out yet?

Have you ever seen a girl in a really cute outfit and thought she looked great, but that something was missing? Maybe you’ve stood in front of the mirror in your dorm or apartment in a great dress and a pair of boots and still felt blah? We’ve all been there–the basics of an outfit look totally stylish, but there’s a certain something that’s off.

In cases like these, there’s an often-overlooked wardrobe essential that can make all the difference: accessories! We’re talking shoes, bags, and jewelry, all of the key players! And the best part? These additions are super easy to grab or put on and still make a huge impact on your style.

Below, I’ve listed the 5 types of accessories that every girl should own, plus tips on how to use them to make any outfit runway-worthy! Interested? Read on.

Belts:

A few great, well-fitting belts in varying widths are definite wardrobe staples. Here are three different styles you might want to consider, plus tips on how to wear them:

* Skinny belts in bright colors or shimmery metallics look super cute over a romper or fitted dress.
* Medium-width belts that feature interesting details like braiding or a fun buckle are perfect with jeans and a tucked-in shirt, to create a tailored, more formal look.
* Large, wide belts are ideal for cinching and defining your waist and look lovely over anything voluminous or oversized.

Belts – Hot Picks:

Product Information: Skinny Contrast Studded Belt, Gap. Leopard Skinny Belt, Ann Taylor. Military Braid Waist Belt, Monsoon Accessorize. Gold Leaf Belt, Mod Cloth. Hook Punch Out Belt, House of Fraser.

Shoes:

For those of you who are shoe-obsessed, this staple probably seems painfully obvious! If you’re not a shoe lover, however, making an investment in a fun pair of flats, classic heels, sexy sandals, and/or chic boots will really update (and finish off!) your look.

Wearing cute shoes instead of ugly-but-functional ones is much like wearing jeans instead of sweatpants: minimal effort, big style payoff! Just think of how much more fashionable an outfit would look with leather riding boots instead of Uggs!

Shoes – Hot Picks:

Product Information: Sam Edelman Gigi Sandals, Lori’s Shoes. Trouser Oxfords, Steve Madden. Let’s Take A Ride Knee High Boots, Ruche. Steve Madden Midnight Blue Pumps, Amazon. Gabriella Rocha Neve Ankle Strap Ballet Flats, Amazon.

Read the rest and see some simple and chic outfit transformations right here.

]]> http://collegecandy.com/2010/09/11/from-collegefashion-using-accessories-to-turn-an-outfit-into-a-look/feed/ 7 ccandystaff accessories belts CF shoes http://collegecandy.com/2009/12/10/it%e2%80%99s-on-aldo-accessories-vs-forever-21-vs-icing/ http://collegecandy.com/2009/12/10/it%e2%80%99s-on-aldo-accessories-vs-forever-21-vs-icing/#comments Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:04 +0000 Jasmin-University of Missouri http://collegecandy.com/?p=48293 ]]>

It’s the holidays – a time for family, good food and, most of all, great parties. But what is all of this without a great outfit? And I mean, sure – the sexy dress, the hot boots, the plush sweater, the perfect jeans; they all make a lasting impression, but it’s nothing if you don’t have the right accessories. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, hats, rings and even belts all make an outfit pop. And so, in honor of what I think could possibly be the most important component of an outfit, I give you:

It’s On: The Accessories Edition.

And yes, it’s a triple play!

First up, Aldo Accessories.
As if ALDO weren’t great on its own, some genius decided that there should be a store that was strictly for all their cutesy little accessories. And so, ADLO Accessories was born.

They’re located in just about all major malls, including The Galleria in Houston, The Water Tower in Chicago and The Fashion Show in Vegas (I’ve been to all three).  And that’s not all. There are also tons of stand-alone stores that attract newbies to the ALDO family of goods.  And there are LOTS of goods. They sell everything from shades to chandelier earrings and some awesomely cute necklaces in between.

Here are the numbers.
Headgear (Beanies, Berets, Headbands): $9.90-$25.00
Totes, Purses, Clutches: This stuff is all actually in ALDO Stores, not the Accessory store, however prices range from $30 to about $150.
Shades: $12
Jewelry: $9.90- $35.00
Leggings, Belts: $9.98- $25.00

And then there’s Icing.
What’s not to love about this place? First of all, it’s everywhere! Plus, the company has been around for years and, though there have been tons of newcomers to the game, they still manage to put out some hot stuff.

Now, I know what some of you are thinking: “Why the hell is Claire’s being mentioned on CollegeCandy?” or “I haven’t been in there since 9^th grade.” Well, shame on you! I bet you haven’t even walked in there. While Claire’s-Icing may not be comparable to KAY Jewelers, they sell some of the most adorable costume jewelry you’ve ever seen, not to mention little clutches and headbands. I don’t think this is the place to go when you’re looking for an engagement ring, but I’m totally for Claire’s when it comes to cheap, plastic, adorable accessories.

Headgear (Beanies, Berets, Headbands): $5.00-$24.00
Totes, Purses, Clutches:$8.00- $30.00
Shades: Not Available, check individual stores
Jewelry: $4.50-$22.50
Leggings, Belts: Not Available, check individual stores

Note: We all know that Icing is the grown-up version of Claire’s, but sometimes you can find steals in Claire’s, too. Prices are based on both stores. Seriously, pop into Claire’s next time you’re at the mall. I bet you’ll find something awesome….

Forever 21
Well, they’re back. Last week, I introduced some of you to the wonderful world of Heritage 1981. This week, I would like to welcome you to the wonderful world of Forever 21 Accessories (well, the few of you who’s arms aren’t already covered in their stackable bracelets).

Now I know there are some of you who are avid Anti-21 Shoppers; I’m one of them. As a matter of fact, I have never purchased anything from the store. That is, except for some accessories I purchased online. If you’re not into the low quality or odd sizing of Forever 21′s clothes, I get it. But I strongly urge you to think about them the next time you need you a cute pair of earrings or a killer cocktail ring

There are tons of cute, shiny, beaded, mesh dainty things in there. You may have to search through a few piles and un-knot a few clumps of necklaces to find them, but when you do, they’ll be the shining stars atop your adorable holiday (or any day) outfit. And the best part: the prices are simply stunning.

So what are the numbers?
Headgear (Beanies, Berets, Headbands): $1.50-$12.80
Totes, Purses, Clutches: $6.40-$34.50
Shades: $5.80-$7.80
Jewelry: $3.80- $22.80
Leggings, Belts: $3.50-$9.80

Clearly you have many choices when looking for cute accessories on the cheap. Which stores are your faves? And why so anti Claire’s, people??

Most guys we know stay up late dreaming of the day they might end up in a giant orgy with beautiful women. We, however, lie awake at night dreaming of a closet full of beautiful clothes. To the left, a wall of shoes. To the right, shelf upon shelf of delicately handcrafted bags organized by color and size.

Sigh.
We all have our fantasies.

Since guys can turn to the interwebs to get their daily fantasy fix, we thought you should, too! So, we’re bringing you some fashion porn. The best of the best in all things fashionable. Sure, it may be out of your price range, but it’s a fantasy, so live it up in all its delicious glory.

The perfect accessories can entirely make an outfit.  They can spice up a basic t-shirt and jean combo, or put the finishing touch on your hot going-out dress.  One of the most basic ways to accessorize an outfit (even that stuff that’s already in your closet!) is with a necklace.  A quirky necklace, worn with the simplest of outfits can be a conversation starter; a more glamorous necklace, can work to complete an otherwise unfinished look.

There are a bazillion options out there for necklaces, no matter how much moolah you have to shell out.  You could splurge and find the perfect signature piece to wear everyday, buy multiples to go with your multitude of outfits, or find that unique, one-of-a-kind necklace from Etsy.  Whatever you choose to do, there is a necklace (or many!) out there for everyone.

Riddle me this: It’s June. It’s cold and rainy in most of the country so you spend your day shopping instead of at the beach. You stumble upon sundress after sundress, cute top after cute top, and you want to buy everything. In fact, you’ve pretty much convinced yourself that it’s totally fine if  you move some money from your savings into your checking. Clothing is a sound investment, after all.  And even though Suze Orman would say “stop it right there, sister,” you really want/NEED these amazing frocks for summer.

Well I’m no Suze Orman, but “Stop it right there, sister.”

Let’s face it, summer is only 3 months. Is it worth going into debt buying that totally adorable DVF wrap dress? Sure Carrie Bradshaw would say yes, but Carrie Bradshaw is a fictional character. I however, your trusty budget sylista, am 100% reality. And not reality like The Hills reality – reality, reality. So listen up.

For such a short season, especially one that has been unseasonably unsummery (seriously mother earth – get on that), there really is no need to go into debt and owe your soul to Saks. Especially when this summer is ALL about accessories. The bolder, bigger and brighter, the better. Bib necklaces and funky necklaces are all over the place making it possible to take a garb from the 8th grade and make it look instantly modern, and make the simplest of outfits look uber chic and pulled together.

I scoured the web and compiled a ton of awesome options. When you wear one, though,  remember to pair it with simple clothes, solid color dresses, maxi dresses or with a great pair of jeans and solid top. Keep the rest of your accessories minimal. And, no, minimal does not mean 3 cocktail rings and a pair of hoop earrings. (Yes I’m talking to YOU, Miss Over-Accessorizer…and you too, grandma) Choose ONE other accessory, whether it be one ring, a few thin bangles or small studs and let the necklace be the focal point. Throw on cute shoes and a great bag and – boom – you just saved yourself a lot of money and buyer’s remorse. Not to mention you still look hella stylish.

I know, I’m good. I’ll be here all week. Well, I’ll be here every Friday.

Awards season is in full swing, which has got me drooling over all those leading ladies’ gorgeous gowns and dresses. Of course, I don’t have a few thousand spare bucks lying around to buy their specific pieces, but for a mere fraction of the price I, too, can look stunning and glamorous for that upcoming Oscar party, hot Valentine’s date, or ladies’ night out. I found this entire ensemble at Forever 21 for under $75.

You gotta start with a lovely dress, and while basic black is always a great option, picking an eye-popping color is also a great way to stand out. Dark blue and violet hues work wonderfully because they ad some pop, but they still have the slimming effect of black.

Basic black pumps are the way to go if you’re looking for glamour, and I love the old Hollywood look of these faux suede heels.

Now you just gotta properly accessorize and you’re good to go. You don’t want to overdo it and take away from the simple and sexy appeal of the dress, so a little vintage-inspired jewelry and a clutch are the perfect options.

This bag is great because you can always tuck the strap inside, or put it over your shoulder if you don’t want to be holding a clutch while you boogy; the necklace adds just enough punch without being overbearing; and what’s more glam than an old-style cocktail ring?

Now do your hair up all purty, put on some sultry make-up (smokey eyes or red lips would be great with this look) and go out and strut your stuff on your very own personal red carpet.