[Welcome to Celebrity Chic on the Cheap, where our style guru takes a celebrity look and breaks it down for you, our poor college fashionista. What does that mean? It means that while the celebrities (like the latest style icon, Kelly Osbourne) are spending $5,000 and more on an ensemble, you an spend way less...and save the rest for Margarita Mondays.]

Cameron Diaz is usually not one that I look to for style inspiration. I mean, I love her as an actress and I totally respect her long-term commitment to environmental causes (she was going green far before it was the norm). As far as style goes though, I wasn’t exactly putting photos of her red carpet looks onto my inspiration board. Maybe it’s because she is so naturally gorg, and has this ridiculously lithe, statuesque body, she always seemed to go for really simple, unremarkable pieces so as to not detract from, well, her.

But perhaps the emergence of another blonde Amazonian goddess onto the scene has inspired Cameron to embrace her inner fashionista, because lately, she has been totally stepping up her game, going for a effortlessly sophisticated aesthetic that I loooove.

Shopping Info: Dress – Bebe, $34.95; Blazer – Kohl’s, $44; Belt – Forever 21, $8.80; Shoes – Endless.com, $45.

I love this lighter, spring-ier version of the boyfriend blazer; it’s structured and airy all at the same time. To up the sex appeal, Cameron paired it with a fierce one-shoulder black dress. I am so glad that the one shoulder look is back in season, because it adds the same amount of sass as a strapless number, but without all the awkward tugging and tape involved. A belt is always a great accessory to jazz up a simple outfit and draw attention to your fab figure. Throw on some strappy high heeled sandals to make your legs look almost as long as Cameron’s, and voila, you’ve got an easy, but alluring and mature outfit to add to your wardrobe.

Get more celebrity style for the poor college fashionista here.

[The following is a guest post from our gal pals at CollegeFashion.net. These girls know their style. Seriously, if it weren't for them, we'd still be wearing JNCOs.]

Winter is in full swing. Whether you’re dealing with icy wind, slushy streets, or ceaseless snowfall, every college girl knows that winter weather means adjusting our wardrobes.

Bundling up in style, however, can present a variety of challenges – from finding cute and cozy layers, to worst of all, looking lumpy and frumpy. If you’re in need of some guidance on how to layer without looking lumpy or just some extra winter inspiration, consider this your handbook!

1. Wear your socks!
I’ll be the first to admit that I hate wearing socks. Hate it! Icy feet, unfortunately, instantly make the rest of you colder, making socks an absolute winter necessity.

Outside of warm boots, warm, insulating socks are the easiest way to lock in extra heat. For extra cold weather, look for tall socks – the more leg coverage, the better. Thigh-high styles were popular this fall and look adorable scrunched under boots, as do knee-high pairs. Finally, if you’re using your socks as an accessory, look for fun details or patterns for warmth AND style.

Product Information: Short Fair Isle Wool Socks, Toast. B.ella Vivenne Socks, Lori’s Shoes. Cable Knit Knee High Socks, Ruche. X-Ray Thigh High Socks, Nasty Gal. Ribbon Perlerine Knee Socks, Topshop. Argyle Socks, Asos. House of Holland For Pretty Polly Triple Chain Socks, Asos. Corgi Polka Dot Sock, Barneys New York.

2. Pile on thin fabrics!
Cold-weather girls have long been known to layer tights and leggings under the skinniest of pants. (This can be an amazing strategy for surviving below-freezing wind chills!) Opt for dark footless tights or get even warmer with workout tights. Leggings or footless tights are the college girl version of long underwear!

Even though this extra layer is thin, it provides some extra cozy insulation. The same goes for your top: go for spandex tanks to wear under the rest of your wardrobe, the tighter the better. In order to create a streamlined, chic look, these base layers should fit like a second skin.

Good stuff, right? Well, there’s more where that came from. Get the rest the CollegeFashion tips for lumpy-less layering by clicking right here.

[Welcome to Celebrity Chic on the Cheap, where our style guru takes a celebrity look and breaks it down for you, our poor college fashionista. What does that mean? It means that while the celebrities are spending $5,000 on an ensemble (for basics!!) you don’t have to. All you have to do is click on the goods and - boom - you can buy the entire look. For cheap. Yes, we know - there is a spot for her in heaven.]

Kourtney Kardashian is totally my favorite Kardashian sister (no, I’m not ashamed that I even have a fave). Did you know that she’s the only one who went to college? Not that I don’t respect a career path that includes being Paris Hilton’s bestie/leaking a sex tape/capitalizing on having a booty that is basically a work of art or…what is it that Khloe does?

But I appreciate that Kourtney at least didn’t expect to make “shameless fame seeker” her bread and butter, and if the 85736837349 hours of Kardashian footage on E! is to be believed, she is actually interested in being a successful businesswoman.

So basically, I like her/mildly pay attention to her because she’s kind of normal. But moreso because, while her taste in men isn’t top notch (more like bottom of the douchey barrel), her taste in fashion totally is. And this particular outfit’s got me jonesing for a shopping spree.

Skirt, Shirt, Belt, Shoes.

What I love most about this outfit is how totally simple it is, without being dull or boring. The floral skirt is so fun and bold, and all of the other pieces are subdued, so it’s a totally low-maintenance ensemble. I also love that Kourtney is rocking a bright belt that brings out the colors of her skirt – it’s so playful and sassy, without being too gaudy. And her nude strappy sandals are interesting and sexy to add a little somethin’ somethin’ to the look while not taking the attention away from the skirt.

For the ladies who live in climates that actually resemble fall and can’t really strut in strappy sandals year round, this outfit is easy to transition. Just throw on a neutral (for this outfit, I’d go with black) cardigan, some tights and a pair of knee-high boots, and you’re good to go, day or night!

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/2010/09/04/candy-dish-the-best-in-fashion-beauty/ http://collegecandy.com/2010/09/04/candy-dish-the-best-in-fashion-beauty/#comments Sat, 04 Sep 2010 19:00:55 +0000 CC Staff http://collegecandy.com/?p=71225 A little Disney fashion inspiration • How to wear a belt • Top 5 green nail polish companies • Win a philosophy prize pack! • How to wear white after labor day ]]>

A little Disney fashion inspiration

How to wear a belt

Top 5 green nail polish companies

Win a philosophy prize pack!

How to wear white after labor day

A nice little Saturday

3 essential fall jackets

So as I write this, I’m sitting on my lanai (balcony) overlooking the beautiful, blue Maui ocean (yes, I’m on my first “real” vacay in years), which means I’m not particularly keen on scouring the internet for under $20 deals for long periods of time (not to mention, they’re only giving me an hour of free wifi). So where did I head?

The mother of all cheap & trendy spots: Forever 21.

And no, she did not disappoint. Checking out the website or a store near you is a necessity before you head back to school, as there are loads of insanely awesome deals on ridiculously cute clothes.  What are you waiting for?  Read, set, GO!

Here are a few things I know I’ll be grabbing up. You know, when I get back to the mainland.

Denim leggings have been spotted on the likes of Whitney Port and Fergie, and are a big for fall. I know it’s a difficult trend to wrap your mind around (or shove your legs into), but we were all resistant to normal leggings at first, weren’t we? Just give these a shot. I love that they are black (more slimming), will look great with a cute pair of sandals or some sexy booties, and are only $16.90.

Cardigans are definitely a fall necessity and this one is perfection with it’s darling lace details and cropped sleeves. It’ll look great with jeans, a pencil skirt or, if you wanna totally prep it out, a pleated mini.  SO CUTE!

Ballet flats are a wardrobe staple and these ones will liven up any look with their bold color and reptile print.  Tack on the $8.50 price tag and who can say no?

Once school’s back in session and that hottie from O-Chem asks you out, you’ll want a sexy top to wow him and this does the trick, fo sho.  Bustiers always work wonders for the girls and have a great way of slimming the waist as well.  Pair it with a pair of dark jeans and some sassy stilettos and soon you’ll be makin’ your own chemistry.

Simple shirts are so important, especially for those days you overslept and are already 25 minutes late to your review sesh, and there’s something so tomboyish yet sexy about a basic raglan tee. I can’t explain it, but at $5.50 you can grab a few and figure it out for yourself.

I’ve always had a thing for big ass earrings and I love the gold/turquoise combo and the Indian vibe of these.  Just be sure not to go overboard with other accessories or crazy bold prints; these can be a centerpiece on their own.

Belts are such a fantastic accessory: they’re cute, they add some flair, and they give nice definition to your waist.  And this one does all that with an 80′s elastic band and the gorgeous lotus flower deet on the front. Sigh. I’m in lust.

A skirt for under $7, seriously?!?  This is such a versatile piece that can be used to create so many different looks from casual day to girls’ night out. And it comes in 3 great colors (this awesomely bold royal blue, and 2 neutrals; black & grey)! This might be all you’d ever need for a complete wardrobe overhaul.

Seriously now, Forever 21, have I told you lately that I love you? And this isn’t the distance talking; this is real.

Post courtesy of out friends at StyleBakery.com. For more awesome fashion, style and beauty news, check them out!

There are some trends that last season after season: leggings, floral prints, gladiator sandals, etc. Then there are those that fade away: baby doll tops, harem pants. How are you supposed to know which trends to trash and which to invest in? Luckily, fashion is already way ahead of you. Fall 2009 and Resort 2010 collections have already been released, and Spring/Summer 2010 is in the works. For most designers, Resort is a preview of what’s coming next. Therefore, the collections provide great insight into what will be hot and what will be not for summer 2010.

We scoured the Resort looks of all the top designers – from Stella McCartney to Brian Reyes to Prada – and compiled a list of summer fashion trends that aren’t going anywhere:

One shoulder tops and dresses are chic without being too revealing. Don’t wear too much jewelry with this look as it makes a statement on its own.

(Ella Moss “Odessa” Top, $87 at Nordstrom; Leila Teired Dress, $237 at Bluefly; Juicy Couture Print Ruffle Dress, $180.60 at ShopBop).

Exposed zippers are edgy, but a favorite of designers such as Phillip Lim and Brian Reyes. This trend definitely has a future.

(Mink Pink Kansas Dress, $93 at Chickdowntown; Brian Reyes Sleeveless Dress, $510 at ShopBop; Charlotte Russe Zipper Ruffle Top, $19.99).

Statement necklaces can glam up any basic outfit, from jeans and a tee to a silk dress.

(Kenneth Jay Lane Flat Zebra Pendant, $99 at My-Wardrobe; Banana Republic Party Bib Necklace, $79; Lauren by Ralph Lauren Multi Bead Bib Necklace, $58 at Nordstrom).

Even though Jenny’s first order of business as queen on the TV series Gossip Girl was to nix her clique’s signature headbands, their influence remains. Bow details will still be in for summer 2010.

(French Connection Flash Bow Dress, $89.99; Newport News Bow Necklace, $29; Felix Rey “Emma” Wristlet, $156 at Bluefly; Forever 21 Pamela Satin Bow Headband, $4.80).

Other looks to shop for include both skinny and wide leg pants, cardigans, high-waisted pants and skirts, fitted blazers, belted waists, ruffles, tribal prints, sheer fabrics, and long tunics.

Which short-lived trends should you buy at cheap-chic retailers? There’s no way to be sure, but it doesn’t look like neon brights, fringe details, studs, or harem pants will be hanging around much longer.

I know there is a serious anti-summer-scarf movement out there, but I am not a part of it. I love scarves – yes, even in the summer. They are really versatile pieces and can really add a lot to an otherwise boring wardrobe. And they can be incorporated in many ways – not just tying those suckers around your neck.

This summer, a lightweight scarf (e.g. silk) is an essential accessory. If you don’t own one already, you can buy one for less than $20 at these stores: Delia’s, Gap, Charlotte Russe, Forever 21. Or buy a few from all of these stores; there are so many cute things you can do with ‘em, you’re going to wanna stock up.

The most common way to wear a summer scarf is, obviously, around your neck. They can be tied in several different ways to fit your personal style best. Wear a blouse with a small silk scarf tied right at the neck (no, it’s not just for moms!), or let a longer, cotton scarf hang down over a dress, tee or tank. If you have a large square shaped scarf, fold it into a triangle and drape it (lay across your chest and bring the edges around behind your neck) over a t-shirt for an instantly chic-ified look.

1. Chicos Glimmer Daisy Scarf $25
2. Express Silk Scarf $14.99
3. Urban Outfitters silk jacquard scarf $28

Another way to wear a scarf is as a belt. To jazz up a pair of jeans, pull a long, colorful scarf through the belt holes and tie at the side. Just keep your top relatively simple so that the patterns don’t clash. You can also use a fun scarf to cinch the waist of a dress. Here the scarf does double flatter-duty: it highlights your smallest part and draws positive attention to it by catching everyone’s eye.

1. Gap Silk Petal Tie Dye Scarf $9.99
2. Forever 21 Knotted Back Knit Dress $18.90
3. Forever 21 Crinkled  Tie Dye Scarf  $4.50
4. True Religion Billy Straight Leg Jeans $175

You can also add a touch of personal style (while saving some moolah) to a handbag by tying a silky scarf to the handle. Instead of carrying multiple handbags, carry the same one each day and tie a new scarf on.

1. Tommy Hilfiger Delray Item Tote $69 at Endless.com
2. Charlotte Russe Tropical Floral Scarf $8.99

Adding a belt is one of the easiest ways to update an outfit. Instead of going out and spending your money on an entire new ensemble, pick up a fun, stylish belt that works with something you already own! In the warmer part of the year, a belt can give a new silhouette and add a splash of personal style to dresses. When it cools off, belts are great for emphasizing your curves which are hiding under all those warm layers.

Here are some belt trends to try for under $25:

Wide belts work well with dresses. For example, this wide belt would instantly make a basic, solid colored dress more stylish. Even more, it will cinch you at the waist, adding instant shape to a shapeless dress. It’s pretty much magical.

Woven Cord Waist Belt – $8.99 at Charlotte Russe
Tunic Tee Dress – $29.50 at Express
Georgina Shoes – $50 at Rampage

Bright skinny belts can also be extremely flattering and add a more interesting twist to a very basic look. For a simple, classic look, pair one with a solid cardigan and jeans.

Fab Skinny Braided Belt – $3.50 at Forever 21
Lightweight V-Neck Cardigan – $24.50 at Old Navy
Stella Bootcut Jeans – $49.50 at Express

Studded belts have become very popular lately. They can add some edge to a more feminine look, or make something basic more exciting. Whatever you pair this with, your look will be instantly transformed from basic to fierce and who doesn’t want to look fierce?

Pyramid Studded Belt – $9.99 at Charlotte Russe
Bobi Supreme Jersey Pocket Dress – $39 at Revolve Clothing
Woven Platforms – $29.99 at Charlotte Russe

If you’re picking a belt that really stands out, make sure that it remains the focus of your outfit. That means no oversized bling or crazy prints! However, a more basic belt can easily pull together any outfit, simple or super trendy, new or made up of the fabulous things your closet already holds.

For more fashion tips, follow me on Twitter or read my blog!

(Left to right, Fall 2008 RTW, from style.com: Jill Stuart, Fendi, Fendi, 3.1 Philip Lim)

[Do you ever feel like you can’t pull something off? Have trendy pieces in your closet that you would never have the courage to actually wear out? Well take those pieces out, shake off the dust, and continue reading! In this series, I will choose a different piece that can be difficult to incorporate into an outfit and give you ideas on how to wear it. If there’s anything you would like to read about in the future, please leave a comment!]

Belts are your most useful accessories; they can hold up your pants, make your waist look small (even in the bulkiest of sweaters), and (literally) pull your outfit together.

Belts are a worthwhile investment because they are so versatile. Neutral colors like brown or black will work with most items in your wardrobe, and brighter colors can make a boring outfit unique. Read on for different ways to cinch your waist this winter. (Warning: anything that applies pressure to the stomach is probably not something you’re going to want to try out at Thanksgiving dinner.)

All dressed up:

Blake Lively looks amazing in this purple Tadashi Shoji dress and black belt at the 2008 Teen Choice Awards in August. This is a great look for any more formal event, like a New Years Eve party. Just wear some tights if you’re going to be outside! Put this look together yourself below: (Click the picture for more info.)

A Casual Look:

Dress up your drab daytime look by adding a belt. Try wearing one over a cardigan, like Sophia Bush in this picture. It is an unexpected twist that really highlights your waist and adds a little ooomph to your ensemble. Here’s where you can get this look (click pictures):

More good ideas for wearing belts:

1. Tie a long skinny belt instead of buckling it – it looks messy but in a good way.

2. Tuck your scarf in. It makes the whole look a little more chic.

Also, make sure you try both wide and skinny belts – both are very in and very cute right now.