Here at CollegeCandy, we’ve sort of been obsessed with sequins lately.  And why shouldn’t we be?  Sequins are fun, glam, and, depending on what you style them with, you can rock them day or night.  And while designer sequined clothing can get pretty expensive, these pieces are all under $20!

This mini dress looks super comfortable, but  jewel-toned color and sequined stripes make it dressy and stylish.  You’ll wear it all year long–with tights and a coat in the colder months, and bare-legged with sandals in the summer!  And the best part?  It’s only $15.99!

Shoes can make or break any outfit–so make sure you have cute ones!  These silver sparklers will go with practically everything in your closet, making them more than worth the $12.99 you’ll spend on them!

Pulling on a sequined mini skirt instead of your go-to jeans is a great way to shake up your usual going-out look.  And this one is super cheap–only $13.98!

Another alternative to jeans for a nighttime look, these shorts are definitely attention-grabbing!  They’d look especially hot paired with a sexy white top (see this cover of Glamour for proof).

Basic black?  Not this top!  At just under $20, this tank top will look great under a blazer for day or with your favorite jeans at night!

This sequined scarf is a great statement piece for nearly any outfit: with a t-shirt or sweater for a casual look, with a tank under a blazer for work, or with a mini dress at night!  It comes in gold, silver, and black, and it’s just $19.90.

This sparkly vest is on sale for only $13.99, but it’s glam enough to to dress up even the most boring t-shirt and jeans look, with virtually zero effort!

So you’re going out tonight, but just the thought of wearing your favorite halter top in the cold nighttime temperatures make you shiver.  Easy solution: a sequined cardigan like this one.  You still have enough sparkle to look dressed up, but you’ll be warm and comfy all night long!

I just love purple clothing and accessories for fall.  The deeper and jewel-toned shade you see in stores this time of year are flattering on everyone, and you feel instantly more sophisticated when you wear it (it is the color of royalty, after all).

And not to mention it looks amazing with gray, my other favorite color for fall.  Here are some great purple items to add to your wardrobe this season for $20 or less each!

I don’t even know where to begin with how amazing this cami is.  Its gorgeous color and ruffles drew me to it at first, but what I really love about it is how versatile it is–you can layer it under a long cardigan for a casual look, or dress it up by wearing it under a blazer or tucked into a skirt.

There are a few reasons that camp shirts like this one have been popular for several seasons: the roll-up sleeves make mean you can wear them in different temperatures,  and they’re versatile enough to dress up or down.  Snag this grape-soda colored one for only $17.99.

This sweater tunic looks so comfortable!  It’s the perfect thing to just throw on the days you don’t know what to wear–just add some leggings or skinny jeans and your favorite boots.  And at $13.80, you can afford to buy a few!

This is the perfect party/going out skirt!  The color will draw enough attention by itself, so keep the rest of your outfit simple by wearing it with a plain black or white top and booties.  You’ll look hot, and no one will be able to guess you only spent $19.80!

Another going out option, this dress will definitely get you noticed!  The faux-wrap style is flattering on pretty much everyone, and the belt both defines your waist and gives you a little bit of an edgy rocker vibe.

This shawl-style cardigan can be worn many different ways to create a number of different looks–and at only $14.99, it’s a steal!

No time to wash your hair before class? This adorable hat will cover up your greasy roots, make your outfit instantly cuter, and keep your head nice and warm.

This boyfriend cardigan is the ultimate casual essential for any college girl.  It’s perfect to wear around your dorm, to class, or even over your dress when you go out at night.  The deep purple shade is just about perfect, and the stripes give it a subtle sporty vibe.  And it’s on sale for only $15!

[When moving into either a dorm or an off-campus apartment, your wardrobe will face two major challenges: 1. A major lack of funding (to add more to it). 2. A major lack of storage space.

For these two reasons alone, maximizing what you do own becomes essential. That's why you need to learn to Shop Your Closet. Each week, I’ll show you how to wear 1 item 3 ways – with the stuff you most likely already own! – to get the most out of your purchases.]

Fashion is all about recycling trends (which is why I kick myself when I think about all those leggings I got rid of in the ’90s ). One decade that made a strong reappearance during the Fall/Winter 2010 runway shows was the 1950s.  With the overwhelming popularity of Man Med, this really comes as no surprise; I mean, Banana Republic has a line to accompany the show! The re-emergence of the ’50s style means it’s time to break out the full skirt! But rather than looking like you’re an extra on Mad Men or a month early for Halloween, it’s important to know how to wear it right.

With Socks:

Skirt, Top, Sweater, Socks, Booties.

This is the season to focus on socks and the full skirt is the perfect way to do it. Grab a cute pair of knee-high socks (which are both adorable AND functional as they will keep your legs warm on cool, fall days) and start layering. Just grab a button-up shirt and tuck it into the skirt, top it off with your favorite cardigan, then slip on the ankle booties you nabbed last fall. And if you don’t feel like rocking heels, you can swap them out for your knee-high boots and let the socks peek over the top instead.

With Lace:

Skirt, Top, Flats, Bag.

Did you know the full skirt can work for night as well? The key to pulling this off is balancing it out with something a bit more sexy. Like lace or a silky cami.  Add some sparkly flats (or even patent pumps) for added pizazz and a bright colored bag and you’re all set to hit the town.

With Class:

Skirt, Top, Blazer, Shoes.

I l-o-v-e mixing and matching different shapes, textures and styles. It just makes things more interesting and, when working with a full skirt, more modern. For this look, I added a bow-tied top under a cropped blazer and oxford-heels for a more scholarly look. But work with what you’ve got. Try a t-shirt under a cardigan with some funky necklace. Or a tank under a blazer and some flat boots. This skirt is incredibly versatile so play around in your closet and you’ll find hundreds of ways to wear it.

One of my favorite places to shop before school is J.Crew.  Everything about it is sophisticated, fresh and fabulous.  But my only issue with the store is that all that sophistication doesn’t come cheap. Sometimes I’ll walk in, pick up a cute skinny belt for my new pencil skirt (from Marshalls…), look at the price tag and try not to strangle myself with it.  $89 dollars for a string of leather???

As I repeat to myself, There are people starving in Africa, there are people starving in Africa, I promptly leave the store empty handed, looking wistfully back at the perfectly put together outfits in the window.

But thanks to store turnover and a whole new crop of Fall fashion pouring into J. Crew stock rooms nationwide, I can finally fulfill my J. Crew dreams. Yes, it’s time for their end-of-summer sale they’ve got some really great goodies to offer, all under $20!  I even spotted a leather skinny belt! Let the celebration commence.

I am totally for this all-over-mini-ruffles flirty number. The neon elastic waistband makes a perfect fit for tucking in (with a cute white tee), or going casual.  I’m loving the stone blue color for fall as well; with a cute pair of tights this skirt can be transformed into the perfect fall outfit.

Imagine this: sitting in the nearest coffee shop, poring over your laptop, sipping a latte….wearing this. Isn’t that a perfectly painted picture? That’s immediately what I thought of when this beautiful double knit sweater graced me with its presence.  It’s an easy pullover for a chilly day, sheer, and super soft (for all of those cute boys hanging all over you in the quad).

This rocker-glam inspired accessory is perfectly balanced with the super feminine attitude of the skinny belt. I love it! It also comes in mustard yellow (i.e. bronzed avocado). Buying Tip: It’s designed to be worn on the natural waist, so get a size bigger if you want to wear it lower.

I am a BIG fan of cardigans for fall. Or always.  And I am constantly looking for another one to liven up my layering.  This one is the perfect color to brighten up those dreary fall days and cropped to perfection. It will look adorable with flats and a light-weight scarf. And can you see the chic add-on of those blingin’ buttons? Heaven.

While some people think tie-dye should stay at summer camp, JCrew proves that it can look modern and chic. You can wear it (like the picture) tucked into a skirt, or pair it with a pair of dark wash jeans. Beautiful. And is it just me or does it look extremely comfortable??  Hurry before this gem sells out!

This is such a dream come true! This sweet, dressy rendition of a romper can be dressed up with tights or dressed down with a straw fedora. Can you hear my excited squeals?? You could wear this flirty frock with classic kicks or sweet flip flops.  It’s so versatile and fresh, it will be hard to pass up (especially since it’s only $19.99!).

In a world full of blazers, this is a perfect casual alternative. This silk cardigan looks extremely comfortable, it’s fashion-forward, has front pockets, and would look so fab with all of those simple knit tops I always end up buying. Hmmm, yummy.

Of course, I couldn’t leave this funky and sweet skirt out of the mix.  It’s a triple threat of F: flirty, flattering and fuss-free.  It would look adorable with a loose-fitted button up or with a simple tee.  And, thanks to the built-in bikini, you can jump in that pile of leaves without worry of showing the world your lady bits.

Polka dots were all over the runways for spring, and really, how can you not feel more peppy when you’re rockin’ the dots? There’s just something about polka dots that are fun, flirty and innocent. And there are plenty of options out there to let you have your fun without looking like Minnie Mouse at a house party.

Here are some pieces that are perfect for the warmer months.

This skirt may be mini, but it’s huge on style: it rocks the dots, it reeks of ’90s style (which is huge right now), and it is amazingly cute for all spring and summer occasions.

Going out for the evening and don’t want to bring a coat? Brighten up those nippy nights with this adorable dotted cardi. It will look just right over a long white tank and a dark pair of skinnies.

This dress is dainty, darling and perfect for spring BBQs.

The cut of this top is flattering for all body types (we love cinched waists around here and you can always add a belt for more flair), and the gray and coral combo is a big y-e-s for spring.

If you want to add just a touch of dotted fun to your spring/summer wardrobe, these shoes are a must-have. They’ll be tres cute with shorts, sundresses, skirts or boyfriend jeans.

Quilted purses are timeless and this one is particularly cute. The navy/red combo just screams spring and would look completely fresh and fabulous with everything from a white sundress to a tank and jeans.

April showers won’t be nearly as bleak with this bright and fun umbrella. Bring on those May flowers!

It takes a while for the nights to warm up, but have no fear! Bust out one of those sexy mini dresses with these tights and you’ll be set.

Every fashionista knows Etsy.com is an online goldmine. Not only is everything one-of-a-kind unique, handcrafted by independent designers, but it is my personal go-to website for cutting edge accessories and unexpected finds.

Sure, I love the pearl and flower detailed necklaces from JCrew, but when wearing them I can almost guarantee that at least one other girl in the office or in class will be sporting the same one. They are just so expected. That’s why I’m always scouring Etsy for a hidden gem. Some little accessory that will add a spritz of unexpected glamour to any outfit.

My latest obsession? The Cotton Field Sweater Guard (with vintage brooches ) by designer Jewelera.

The sweater guard has been on my radar for awhile now. Cardigans are a staple in my wardrobe, and I’m always looking for a way to spruce them up a bit. Necklaces could do the trick, but it’s just so charmingly romantic to have a draping chain linking either side of your sweater. And this one from Jewelera is the perfect blend of edgy and earthy vintage, with two gold leaf brooches connected by swinging chain accented with white gold etched acrylic beads.

This accessory is gorgeously reminiscent of renaissance days, with the detailed accents of a hippie flower child. I can already see this sweater guard adding instant glamour to a conservative cardigan, or as a uniquely feminine touch to the extremely trendy blazer.

What I love even more? I can totally see this added to the lapel of a jean jacket or tank top for a handcrafted, boutique feel. There is no doubt that all your friends will be asking you what high end shop you scooped up this find from, never knowing that you simply dressed up a plain tee or tired jacket with a whimsical embellishment.

I get it. With winter carrying on for another 6 weeks (thank you, Mr. Groundhog) your life really does feel like Groundhog Day since you wear the same thing day after day…after day: jeans and a black top, or sometimes, if you’re feeling a bit crazy, jeans and white one. After the novelty of a cute winter ‘drobe wore off (like the 2nd week of negative temps and slushy snow), it’s hard to put any effort into looking presentable and unique.

But after this article you will see that even if you keep your winter uniform intact, you can make it look like you really cared and make a ordinarily boring ‘fit ready for any occasion just by adding a few fun accessories.  And you can do it all for cheap. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: accessories are the BEST way to revamp an outfit, create a look, change it up, or try out a trend without spending that booze money breaking the bank.

Winter Uniform #1:
Jeans, White Tee and Sweater

I LOVE pink and grey. With this adorable headband drawing the eye up, no one will even notice that you wore that EXACT same outfit yesterday. Throw on some fun bangles, a pretty necklace and – presto chango – you just want from drab to oh-so-fab.

Jeans: Urban Outfitters, $54
White Tee: Delias, 2 for $20
Cardigan: Delias, $39.50
Headband: Lulus, $28
Necklace: Forever 21, $6.80
Bracelets: Anique Michelle, $12

Winter Uniform #2:
Black and Denim

Ah, black. So versatile. So easy to work with. You can dress this look up with pumps and a clutch, or dress it down with Uggs and a tote. The key is big, bold accessories. This necklace is great because it’s dressy and ties in perfectly to the black-on-black top combo. And that ring, sigh, is to die for. It’s the easiest way to completely change this look. Just make sure not to go overboard with the accessories. If you do a bold necklace, stick to more toned down earrings and rings. If you wanna rock a big ring, choose a more basic necklace.

Remember: you want to accessorize, not be a walking jewelry box!

Jeans: Gap, $69.50
Cardigan: Old Navy, $29.50
Cami: Old Navy, $10.50
Necklace: Forever 21, $10.80
Earrings: Forever 21, $3.80
Ring: Charlotte Russe, $8.50

Winter Uniform #3:
Good for Any Outfit

Throw on the scarf, necklace, earrings or ring with ANY solid color ensemble, jeans or leggings, and out you go! My vote is for the circle scarf – cozy AND bright. And these bracelets are SO cheap you can buy 5 and layer those bad boys up!

It is January 2010 and I’m supposed to buy shorts?

But that dress, that top – they are just so. freaking. cute. So I cave and I buy them. And then I take them home and stare at them and even though know it’s January (and my jeans are wet and frozen to the knee), I want to wear them!

So this week’s Budget Stylista goes out to every girl like me who’s trekked in sloshy snow to her favorite shop and couldn’t stop herself from loading up on the spring styles. No more waiting 6 long, cold months to sport your new goods; I will show you how to wear them now without catching frostbite and then again once the snow (and your body) thaws out.

The Spring Dress
For Winter, take a pair of tights (black or gray for this dress) and pair with a long sleeve shirt worn UNDER the dress. I love the mint color long-sleeve shirt under this because it picks up the mint in the dress, but still looks wintery paired with black boots, gray tights and a dark gray cardigan. (If mint isnt your thing, black, white or gray work too!) Not to mention, the long-sleeve-under-the-strapless combo looks VERY Marc by Marc Jacobs. Throw on a cute chunky beret to keep your head warm and off you go, lighting up the snow filled streets with your spring/winter style.

Dress: Lulus.com, $44
Tights: Lulus.com, $17
Boots: Urban Outfitters, $88
Cardigan: Forever 21, $15.80
Beret: Forever 21, $4.50
Long Sleeve Shirt: Forever 21, $5.50

When it starts to get warm (in, uh, 4 months), ditch the boots for these super cute flats, throw on a springy necklace and show off those collarbones you’ve been hiding all year!

Dress: Lulus.com, $44
Flats: Urban Outfitters, $28
Necklace: Urban Outfitters, $28
Sunglasses: Lulus.com, $9

The Springy Shirt
Sure, a hot pink sheer t-shirt screams party on a boat/spring break, but paired with black legging/pants, high heeled boots (with traction – lord knows how many times I’ve totally bitten in while wearing boots with a flat bottom) and a long black cardi, you can wear this on any night out, all winter long. Pair with some fun bracelets (or other chunky jewelry) and let the pink be a fun bright pop of color on a cold, dark night.

Tee: Express, $29.50
Leggings: Victoria’s Secret, 2 for $40!
Boots: DSW, $49.94
Cardigan: Nordstrom, $24
Infinity Scarf: Nordstrom, $24
Bangles: Forever 21, $6.80

For the spring, tuck that tee into a high waisted skirt (or you could go with a pair of shorts, like these, which I LOVE), throw on some cute peep toe heels (these ones are adorable and CHEAP), swipe on a little bronzer and you are so spring ready.

Tee: Express, $29.50
Skirt: Forever 21, $19.80
Heels: Lulus.com, $27.50
Ring: Forever 21, $2.80 (!!)

We all have our own personal style. That’s a fact.  However, no matter what your style is, there is one staple that every college girl (and boy for that matter) should have in their closet – a cardigan.

While the cardigan can be associated with our favorite childhood neighbor, Mr. Rogers, the cardigan is no longer just for old men.  A cardigan is easily the most versatile piece of clothing you can own.  Chicer than a hoody, the cardigan goes with everything, be it with jeans or over a dress.  This year is the perfect time to purchase a cardigan (or 20), as stores have pulled out all the stops.  Name a trend this year, and you can find a cardigan that incorporates it. Of course, there’s also basic cardigans in every color imaginable if that’s more your thing.

So whether you’re looking for sequins, plaid or ruffles, there’s a cardigan out there for you. If only there were room in my closet for all 16 of these…

1. Mix delicate lace tights with tougher fabrics like tweed and menswear-inspired pieces.

2. Wear skirts, dresses and shorts with shorter hems – long pieces will make an outfit too old lady-like.

3. Pair lace tights with over-the-knee boots so just a little of the pattern peeks out.

[For more fashion and beauty fabulosity, visit StyleBakery.com.]