[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 hot mama, Jessica Alba) are spending $5,000 on an ensemble, you don’t have to.]

Emma Watson has come a long way from being that little girl in Harry Potter with the big frizzy mane. She has survived the leap from child star to adult actress relatively gracefully, as the wildest moves she has made recently involve going to an Ivy and chopping her hair into a killer pixie cut.

I want her life.

Emma’s style tends to be spunky, but tailored and obviously well-thought out. She loves glam accessories, and a mix of vintage, classic, and trendy pieces. She has a knack for looking incredibly classy and chic, while also totally age appropriate. And seeing as this leading lady is the same age as many of us, we too can achieve such fashion perfection. Even better, we can do it on our we’re-in-college-but-don’t-have-millions-of-dollars-from-our-wildly-successful-movie-career budgets.

Shopping Info: Trench – Forever 21, $32.80; Jeans - Delias, $9.99; Cowlneck Top – Gap, $14.99; Studded Bag – Target, $19.98; Flats – Zappos, $39.99; Flower Pin – Uniquely Dodie’s, $9.95.

Who doesn’t love trench coats? A well-fitted one makes every girl look chic and sleek. I love that Emma added a splash of red via an adorable red flower to liven up and modernize the coat a bit (but you can use any fun, funky pin you’ve got and get the same look!). Combining the coat with jeans creates a casually elegant effect. We can’t see what Emma was rocking underneath the coat, but to me, a boat neck striped t-shirt fits the motif of this outfit so well. Topped off with some adorably edgy lace up flats and an amazing studded bag, this outfit is feminine, flirty, and funky.

Get more celebrity looks for less here.

So how do I get my chambray on without rocking the denim tuxedo?
Two words: denim dress.

The denim dress is a fashionable and versatile wardrobe addition. First, it’s a great way to get out of those jeans (that may or may not be giving you muffin top) but still enjoy one of the biggest trends of the season. Second, it’s the ultimate transition piece to take you from summer to fall. Pair it with some wedges or flat sandals now and in two months, rock some tights and a chunky cardigan (or leather coat!) and you’re good to go.

Plus, we all know that dresses in general are the bomb.com because there is so much less thought needed to look cute and put together, and the denim dress is no exception. Throw one on, add cute shoes and a bag and – boom! – you = SO FREAKIN CUTE! Need some help finding the perfect denim frock? I’ve got 8 fun and flattering options right here. No, you don’t need to thank me. I’m just doing my job!

Top Row from left: Forever 21 – $22.80; Levi’s – $59.50; Macy’s – $8.99; Charlotte Russe – $28;
Bottom Row from left: Macy’s – $34.99; Forever 21 – $19.80; Charlotte Russe – $28; Forever 21 – $19.80.

I hate to admit it but fall is almost here. Major tear.

But while I’m not excited for midterms, wool coats, shivering on my walk to class and being too cold to drink iced coffee, I am excited for boots (and really excited for Pumpkin Spice Lattes). I know, its not easy to think about knee-high boots when you’ve got sweat building up in the crook of your arm (just me?), but right now- while you’re still in summer mode – is really the best time to stock up on boots for the season:

1) Because you can find good deals.
2) You can find whatever you want in your size.
3) You’re so sick of dirty flip flop feet, you just want something soft and buttery covering up those toes.

Those three reasons were good enough for me to go on an Internet shopping spree from my bed last night. And I found some major gems.

This season, embellished boots and more masculine lace-up boots are totally in my closet. Doesn’t seem like you? Wrong. You can wear these little guys with anything. Pair them with leggings and a long button down for the day, or pair with a flirty feminine look for a nice juxtaposition of girly and boyish.

Here are a bunch of boots that I’m loving right now. There are different heights (from over-the-knee to ankle booties), colors (grey, olive, and tan are nice alternatives if you already have black and brown but want something new) and styles. So go ahead, stock up! You’ll look bootiful (did I just say bootfiul? Ohhh no. That was so a joke my 7th grade geography teacher would have made…) and kick off the new semester in style.

Top Row (L to R): Lulus, $48; Gap, $79.50; Target, $39.99; Madden Girl, $69.95
Middle Row: Forever 21, $27.80;  Charlotte Russe, $40; Forever 21, $34.50; Madden Girl, $49.95
Bottom Row: Delia’s, $59.50;  Lulus, $49; Rocket Dog, $69.95

Photo courtesy of The Sartorialist

Tomorrow is Memorial Day and you know what that means: beer, hot dogs, and your dad making inappropriate weiner jokes by the grill.

But you know what else it means? Summer. is. here. and it’s time to bust out those summer whites that make you look super chic and extra tan. White pants not your thing? Not a problem; there’s a little white for everyone this season, from tops to tanks to statement necklaces (their statement being “I know I look fabulous!”). Slap some SPF on that skin, slip into a few of these and embrace the season of iced beverages, late night cookouts and the perfect beachy waves.

Just be sure to stay away from sangria, ketchup, grass, berries…. er… be careful out there.

[Click on the items below to get all the shopping info!]

]]> http://collegecandy.com/2010/05/30/its-time-to-bust-out-the-summer-whites/feed/ 1 Kelly - Simmons College summer whites charlotte russe stella and dot modcloth delias charlotte russe wedge charlotte russe skirt vs bikini urban urban flat tori burch gap white tee marc bag http://collegecandy.com/2009/12/08/8-under-20-get-ready-for-the-holiday-parties/ http://collegecandy.com/2009/12/08/8-under-20-get-ready-for-the-holiday-parties/#comments Tue, 08 Dec 2009 21:00:43 +0000 Jess T. - Columbia University http://collegecandy.com/?p=48045 ]]>

So Hanukkah begins on Friday and Christmas is 17 days away, which means it’s time for holiday parties, dinners, and gatherings of family and friends. And that means you’ll need some super cute looks to show off.  Of course after buying gifts, paying travel expenses to go home, and all the other stuff you’ll be spending on this holiday season, spending money on yourself probably isn’t the most reasonable idea. But you don’t have to ruin your budget (or your reputation by re-gifting…) to look fantastic.

Here are 8 items under $20 that you can add to your wardrobe to make it extra festive.

Forever 21 has all the goods for the perfect holiday looks:

If you wanna shine this season, why not go for sequins? The one-shoulder combined with the short length makes this dress totally sexy without being skanky and you’ll definitely stand out in a crowd. Slip on some black tights, black pumps and a black boyfriend sweater for that holiday dinner. Then rock it again on NYE with some jewel toned stilettos or a hot pair of booties.  Did I mention it’s only $15.50?

Looking for something a little more conservative or family-friendly?  This dress is only $14.50 and gives a classic look a modern, fun and totally stylin’ twist.

Pair this top with a pair of black skinny pants or jeans, a cardi or a boyfriend blazer and a cute pair of flats for anything from a casual holiday soiree to dinner (at the kids’ table) with the entire extended family.

Wet Seal is another great spot for affordable and bangin’ pieces

Too cold for a dress but still wanna sparkle? Try some sequin leggings. They’re a great way to stay warm and look sassy all at the same time. Just pair them with a long, loose fitting top and you’re chic to go.

You can’t go wrong with a pencil skirt, especially a bandage-style skirt. You can wear this with just about anything for any occasion (a sparkly top for a party, a BF blazer for dinner) and look absolutely stunning, sexy and classy.

This dress is great for cocktail parties and will definitely give a fun, flirty look. You can go classic with some faux pearls, red shoes & lipstick, or give it an edge with more heavy, metallic jewelry and some studded booties.

If nothing at F21 or Wet Seal strikes your fancy, Charlotte Russe is bound to have something cheap and chic for you.

Wanna go for the tried and true dressy-top-with-jeans look?  This top has a flattering cut, is grandparent-appropriate and still gives a little holiday sparkle with the rhinestone details.  Add some black boots or strappy silver heels and you’re set.

Not comfortable in a pencil skirt? Opt for something flirty and feminine instead. Add a basic white tank and some tights and you’ve got an adorable and unique holiday look.

]]> http://collegecandy.com/2009/12/08/8-under-20-get-ready-for-the-holiday-parties/feed/ 1 Jess T. - Columbia University 8under600x360 photo courtesy of forever21.com photo courtesy of forever21.com photo courtesy of forever21.com sequin leggings skinny skirt tank dress charlotte holiday top blue skirt http://collegecandy.com/2009/11/05/candy-dish-kristen-stewarts-dating-life-revealed/ http://collegecandy.com/2009/11/05/candy-dish-kristen-stewarts-dating-life-revealed/#comments Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:00:57 +0000 CC Staff http://collegecandy.com/?p=45481 Kristen Stewart is gay? • Rihanna is embarrassed she ever loved Chris Brown. • We're loving Charlotte Russe accessories. • Damn, that's a sexy hobby. • Britney Spears forgot something.... • What's Brad hiding in that beard?]]>

So, Kristen Stewart is gay?

Rihanna is embarrassed she ever loved Chris Brown.

We’re loving Charlotte Russe accessories.

Damn, that’s a sexy hobby.

Britney Spears forgot something….

What’s Brad hiding in that beard?

1. Lots of people are going to be seeing these things (and I’m not talking about the people you bring home…), so it’s time to toss out the ratty high school t-shirts and invest in something cute.
2. Lots of people are going to see you, so if you tend to sleep in the buff I’m pretty sure your roomie would much prefer to see you in some jammies than, well, see your naked butt. Factor in the unexpected fire alarms/friends barging in at all hours of the night, and you’re going to want to have something to toss on even if you have a room to yourself.

Lucky for all of us, there are tons of options when it comes to cute and cozy PJs. No matter how much or how little you’ve slept in in the past, there’s something (or lots of somethings for those 6 week runs between laundry days) super adorable for you.  And if you feel like channeling your inner Holly Golightly while your roommate studies 10-feet from your face, there’s a mask for you, too.

This week we take another trip down cheap & trendy lane to Charlotte Russe.  This is a great place to shop if you’re looking for affordable, well, anything. Hot evening looks, basic day looks, super sexy shoes, way cute accessories and everything in between – Ms. Charlotte has it all.  They also recently launched a new line of more upscale/expensive pieces and denim called People’s Liberation that I am totally feelin’. Just not for this, since none of that shiz is under $20.

But this stuff is, meaning you can load up on the goodies and keep that budget in check. It’s a beautiful thing, I tell you. A beautiful thing.

Accessories can make (or break) an outfit and CR offers loads of awesome accessories at even more awesome prices, usually under $10! This bangle can be used for day or night and the gorgeous colors will give a special pop to your outfit. Even if that outfit is a t-shirt and jeans.

If you’re wanting to go Gossip Girl/prep style for back-to-school, this headband just screams Blair Waldorf. Except you don’t have to spend like Blair Waldorf.

Tights are not only a fun fashion statement, they’re a Godsend as the summer warmth is replaced by autumn chill.  This little pack comes with 2 pairs of tights that can be worn 3 different ways.  Style and versatility?  Yes please.

These shoes are cute, easy to get on and off (which is a totally under-rated feature in footwear, I must say), come in 3 different colors, and are totally worth the under-$15 price tag.

Pencil skirts are a necessary staple in any gal’s closet and I am loving the bandage look of this one; it’s sure to accentuate those curves of yours and will look great with anything from a basic tee/tank to a ruffled blouse to a sexified evening shirt.

This blouse is a great addition to any wardrobe with it’s girly ruffles, cinched waist and versatility.  Pair it with jeans, trousers or the pencil skirt above.

Boyfriend jeans…for $19.99? You’re welcome.

School will be in session soon (groan), but heading back to campus also means there’s bound to be loads of back-to-school parties. And you must look hot for said parties.  The sexy bustier-inspired top with a flowing bottom is definitely worth more than the super cheap price tag on this little shirt. You can show off the cleavage and hide any of those extra pounds from eating too much of mom’s cooking this summer.  Bonus: the fuschia will also look fantastic on your sun-kissed skin.

While hoodies don’t exactly have a rep for being fashionable, every girl has a few in her closet. They are pretty much THE staple in every college wardrobe since they are comfy, warm, and easily slip on over whatever you wore to bed last night. Even hardcore fashionistas have lazy days!

Since you most definitely have one (or 6) zip-ups in your closet, I’ll give you a few different ways to wear them so you look more casual cute and less “Holy sh*t I just woke up in my boyfriend’s room and I’m 20 minutes late for class so I’ll just borrow his clothes and run out of the door.”

Contrary to popular belief, that is not cute.

Hoodies are extremely versatile and as long as you get the fit right (read: fitted!), you can wear them with just about anything.

Try pairing a hoodie with skinny jeans and flats to keep it stylish. When comfort is your goal, look past the sweats and throw on a roomy pair of boyfriend jeans or gaucho pants instead. Swap slides, sandals or casual flats in for sneakers so you don’t look like you should be at the gym.

Yes, it’s that easy. Looking good in college doesn’t take time – you just need to pay attention to the way your stuff fits. And if you have a few good hoodies around, you’ll always be one pair of jeans away from a cute ‘fit for class.

Left outfit: Freedom Hoodie, $79 at Guess; Lurex Skinny Jean, $29 at Wet Seal; Rampage Harmonic Flat, $44 at Endless.com.

Center outfit: Dip Dye Hoodie, $79 at Athleta; Current Elliot Long Boyfriend Jean, $244 at Singer22; Havaianas Top Flip Flop Accessory, $18 at Bare Necessities.

Right outfit: Stud Logo Hoodie, $78 at Armani Exchange; Ruched Gaucho Pants, $14 at Charlotte Russe; Cole Haan Air Ibiza Slides, $121 at Zappos.

For more fashion tips, follow Anna on Twitter!

Fall merchandise will be arriving in stores over the next few weeks, and while it may be tempting to run out and get a whole new back to school wardrobe, don’t! Wait for sales to begin, and shop in your closet instead.

One item that the majority of college girls have in their closets are leggings. The great thing about leggings, like this pair by Plan B from Bloomingdale’s, is that they can be worn with practically anything. Here are three outfit ideas that use leggings to take your summer outfits into fall:

1. Pair a summery tank top with leggings and a cropped jacket for a a chic yet simple fall look. The tank will keep the look from getting too severe, but the jacket is there to warm those shoulders (seeing as the temps will drop into cold territory quite fast). For shoes, pick flats, ankle boots, or knee-high boots.

Jacket: Corey Lynn Calter, $86.40 at Chickdowntown.com; top: Charlotte Russe, $18.99; leggings: Merona by Target, $9.99; boots: BCBGirls, $76.24 at Endless.com.

2. Layer a cozy sweater over a summer dress with leggings. Cinch your waist with a belt to give it some shape.

Sweater: Spiegel, $39; belt: Arden B, $19.50; dress: Forever 21, $17.50; leggings: Arden B, $18; boots: Aldo, $110.

3. Wear summer’s flowing tunics throughout the fall with leggings and boots.

Green tunic: Forever 21, $17.80; Blue tunic: Forever 21, $22.80; leggings: Arden B, $18; boots: Steve Madden, $99 at Lord and Taylor.

So cute, so easy, and so cheap. Save that money for something more useful… like a pair of these.

For more fashion tips, follow me on Twitter!