Browsing through magazines last week, I noticed that fur accessories have popped up in lots of editorials. Not only fur hats and fur-accented scarves, but strangely enough, purses featuring fur details. I admit, at first this seemed kind of odd, but the furry handbags have really grown on me and I’m itching to add one to my collection. ALDO is a great brand, especially for affordable accessories and I was thrilled to see some fur in the their purse section, including the Opdyke.

ALDO came out with a purse last year called the Cyphert. That totally blew up. Everyone and their dog had one. They’re banking on the success of that shape and adding a fur flap, giving you the Opdyke! PS – what’s with the totally bizarre names? Anyways, let’s move on.

The Opdyke measures 12′ L x 10′ H x 5′ D. It is made of a taupe synthetic and features a magnetic flap covered in faux fur. The inside consists of a three compartments, one of which has a zipper. There is also a back zipper pocket and two slip pockets on the front side. That means tonnes of storage and great organization.

There are also two carrying options: the satchel handle and crossbody strap. The strap is removable, which is nice for days when you’re channeling Betty Draper and only use the single handle. The fur accents just scream cold weather and I can only imagine how darling this will be paired with a wool coat or even a plaid shirtdress.

If you’re looking to stay on trend and add some fur to your purse wardrobe, look no further than the ALDO Opdyke! It’s even on sale for $40.50 right now at Zappos.

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When it comes to staying warm in the colder months, there’s nothing like faux fur: it’s so soft, warm, and chic.  Plus, it’s a much more humane and wallet-friendly solution for those of us who love the look and coziness of fur, but are on a budget and/or hate the idea of wearing real fur.

Here are some great faux fur items to add to your wardrobe that will keep you warm without hurting your bank account–they’re all under $20!

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[The following is a guest post from our gal pals at CollegeFashion.net. They're like college Rachel Zoe (with a little extra meat on their bones). Have you checked them out yet?!]

I know that there are a lot of mixed feelings on fur — personally, I’m an advocate of faux fur. Not only is is cheaper and animal-friendly, but there are incredible plush pieces available that keep you warm and look great. That said, my mom gave me her vintage white rabbit fur coat a couple years ago; I haven’t had the nerve to wear it in public, but it’s a shame that it has just been hanging out in my closet for so long. Although I would never buy a real fur item, I can understand keeping a vintage piece that holds sentimental value.

The other great thing about faux fur is that it is SO warm. There is nothing cozier to wrap around yourself on a windy night than a fuzzy coat. It also carries an air of sophistication and class — pair a coat with a string of pearls and red lipstick for some old Hollywood glamour.

There are many ways to rock faux fur without channeling stuffy old ladies who lunch or looking tacky. Curious to know how?

Tips and Tricks for Working Faux Fur into an Outfit:

Try a faux fur vest. I got mine on sale for $20 at American Eagle last season, so this piece does not have to be a huge splurge. Fur vests look awesome with jeans and a long sleeved shirt, or a simple dress, leggings and boots.

Try small accents. If you’re hesitant about this look, try a faux fur scarf or purse for a hint of the trend. I also love corduroy and wool jackets with fur trimming on the collars and sleeves.

Keep it simple if you’re unsure. I love faux fur with florals and stripes, but my style is all about contrast. For a more conservative approach, try it out with solid colors.

Rock a faux fur jacket or coat. We all loved Carrie Bradshaw’s coat on SATC, and coats like hers are amazingly warm and stylish. Just be careful about wearing one in precipitation — water can make faux fur clump together awkwardly.

Experiment with animal print. I absolutely LOVE my leopard print faux fur jacket, and I’ve seen other great animal prints as well in stores this season. But to avoid looking like Cruella DeVille, seek out subtle, blended prints.

Got all that? Good, it’s time to get some faux fur outfit inspiration, courtesy of the ladies at CollegeFashion.net.

Animal print is one of the hardest prints to incorporate into your wardrobe. And it doesn’t matter which you choose: leopard print, zebra print, faux-fur (because, for the love of PETA, please go faux) or snakeskin. But, as with most things in life, the harder the challenge, the bigger the reward. And in the case of animal print, that reward is instant sex appeal.

This fall, take a walk on the wild-side and add a little jungle-fever to your outfits.  There are tons of accessories to choose from if you’re going for subtlety, or entire pieces if you’re looking to make a statement. And for all you shy ladies, you can even channel your inner sex kitten with leopard-print lingerie.

But be forewarned: what you’re picking is extremely important when it comes to animal print.  While there are many prints to choose from, sometimes they just look cheap.  Seriously – zoom in on this sweater dress if you don’t believe me. Just remember to keep both fit and texture in mind when you’re shopping to ensure a look that is tres chic, not uber trashy.

And if you don’t know where to start, I’ve got 15 great options right here.

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One of the best things about fall (besides Halloween, candy corn, pumpkin everything, Honeycrisp apples, etc.) is switching up your wardrobe. If you live in a colder climate (read: hell. frozen. over) like me, each October you yank your tanks and dresses from your closet (shed a few tears) and swap ‘em out for the sweaters and boots stuffed under your bed. And then you hit the mall to add a few new fun pieces to your already warm and snuggly fall/winter wardrobe.

But what should you add? With so many trends happening right now, you don’t have the space (or, more realistically, the money) to load up on everything this season. You need the best of the best – the items that are cute and functional and will get you through until the snow melts…in June.

Perhaps we can help. This week I asked the CollegeCandy writers to share their fall/winter fashion must-haves. See what they’re lovin’ this season and stock up on a bit of it for yourself. Sure, they may not have the best taste in men, but when it comes to fashion, they know their ish.

Zahra – Northwestern University: I’m crazy about skirts right now. I’m trying to not constantly rely on jeans and there are so many adorable skirts that you can dress up or down, but more importantly, throw over leggings or tights when it starts to get cold. Cute, but still practical!

Norah – Drake University: I’m absolutely obsessed with this dress from Urban Outfitters. I love the silhouette and the green color on top is perfect for fall and winter. If only I something to wear it to…

Lauren H – The New School: I’m loving that it’s OK to indulge my Pretty Woman moments this season. All hail the over-the-knee boot! Bonus: they’re really warm for winter and these from Chinese Laundry are great for those of us with skinny legs (and wallets).

Caitlin – University of Alabama: My must-have for this fashion season is a loose cardigan like this one from Forever21. It’s a great way to add some volume to your look so you’re chic and comfy at the same time.

Leah – Ryerson University: The boyfriend blazer from Club Monaco. It’s an investment piece that would be multifunctional.  Too bad I suffer from sticker shock every time I visit it. 

Anna R – Northeastern University: My must-have is the BB Dakota Zoe Vest at Lulus.com. Faux fur is a big trend this fall, and this vest will keep me warm and look chic with jeans, a dress, anything! It instantly updates jeans and a long sleeved tee (aka: my go-to outfit for class).

Lauren – University of Michigan: I am OBSESSED with these boots from Target. They are perfect for fall with a pair of jeans. And they’re only $29.99! I tried on an identical pair at Bloomingdales for $160. Hell to the no, Bloomies.

Brithny- Duke: Steve Madden booties! They’re so much cheaper than the ones on the runway but still super cute. Especially the Seryna that I just bought.

Brianna- Fordham: I am totally loving the bib necklaces this season. They are so chic and instantly dress up a plain shirt or dress.

Charlsie – Hollins: Glimmer Tights from J Crew. Not only will they keep me warm, they will add a little sparkle to the upcoming cold winter nights. And to top it off, the shades of these tights go with just about anything!

Erica – Kent State University:  This American Apparel circle scarf. It comes in 14 different colors, an assortment of fabrics AND you can wear it as a dress?!  What will those AA people come up with next?

Kendra – University of Pittsburg: This isn’t your typical Ugg boot; it’s more like a sweater for your feet. The Classic Cardy Boot is versatile; you can adjust how you wear it with the buttons on the side. Perfect for dry fall weather!

Sarabeth – University of Texas: This season I’m all about classics with a modern twist. I just ordered this skirt in teal.

Cristina – Michigan State University: These shoes would make me feel like I’m about to pop off like a mobster boss, angel hair with the lobstah sawce.  Don’t ask me what that means, because I don’t even know…they’re that cool.

Alex – Lakehead University: My must-have this season is a fur vest! Funky and functional in the cold Canadian winter! My fav is this DIY version.

Elizabeth – UC Berkeley: The “Twister” LBD. It’s perfect for New Year’s without the usual overdose of sequins.

Sara C – Fordham: I just bought this electric blue HeatTech turtleneck from Uniqlo and I adore it! It is as lightweight as your favorite tank top but retains heat to keep you warm without layering. The HeatTech line also has scoop-neck tees and tank tops which come in so many delicious colors. For just $10-$15 each I might go back and get them all!

Carly – Grinnell: I’d have to say it’s these basic leggings from Express. I was amazed how comfortable they were when I tried them on, and they go with EVERYTHING! I love, love, love to wear skirts, but I get cold so easily, and these leggings make it possible for me to keep wearing skirts all through the fall.

Elizabeth-University of Missouri: My Marc by Marc Jacobs high-waisted skirt is basically all I’ve been wearing recently. I pair it with a Mizzou tee-shirt and flats for football games or class, and I add heels and a cute top and wear it to parties. It’s versatile, cute and comfy… what more could you ask for?

And even better:  your faux fur look can be faux expensive. There are tons of options out there right now from Target to Urban that are trendy and cheap. For the total Zoe look, pair the vest with a giant Starbucks tea, huge sunglasses and act as if the smallest hiccups in life are the beginning of the end of the world (oh, and obviously don’t forget to throw in a couple of “I Die’s”  every 3 minutes).

But for those of us who like the look but not the RZ-emo, rock the vest with a toned down ‘fit because the fur is a total statement. And Rachel Zoe fan or not – you will look ba-nanas.

Here are some of my favorite faux-fur and totally luxe pieces around:

For a casual, pulled-together look for day, pair a vest with some basic, easy pieces and you’re good to go:

All that fur is gonna give you some bulk, so a fitted bottom – like a skinny jean or legging – will slim your silhouette. Then pick a basic tee for layering (neutrals like brown, grey, black or white work best!). Slip into a neutral flat boot for day, or punch it up a bit with a taller, sexier bootie and you’ve got yourself a look worthy of the RZ stamp of approval.

Or pair over a loose basic solid dress, opaque tights and boots for something a little more going-out appropriate:

The mixture of fabric and textures in this look gives new life to the basic-black ensemble. Plus, the vest is just fierce so you don’t want to add anything that will detract from it.

[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!]

It’s really starting to get cold out there now, but you can stay warm by adding a few furry touches to your wardrobe. Models on the fall runways sported real fur, but faux fur is a more wallet- and animal – friendly option. While it may be a little unrealistic and over the top for a college girl to sport a big fur coat, here are some ways you can subtly slip this trend into your wardrobe:

1) On the hood of your coat/sweatshirt (bonus warmth if it lines the coat too!). This is a really simple way to add some faux fur to your look. Wear it with jeans and your warmest boots.

Coat, Abercrombie & Fitch $200. Jeans, Seven For All Mankind $165. Boots, EMU Australia $90. Bag, Forever 21 $26.80.

Here are some more furry hood options. Click to learn more:

2) On your collar. This look was huge this fall and looks very chic and sophisticated.

Coat, Juicy Couture $385. Jeans, Charlotte Russe $30. Bag, Old Navy $16.50. Boots, Steve Madden $100.

Some more faux fur collared coats:

3) On your legs. Boots with the fur are always cute and stylish for winter. Tuck your jeans in, or wear them with leggings to keep your feet cozy.

All I can ask is that, no matter how cold it is at your school, PLEASE don’t succumb to this trend and wear these ugly things (I’m not even telling you where they’re from!):

4. On your head. Winter accessories are another great way to add some fur without looking crazy. Here are a few great faux-fur options.

Celebrities are always wearing hats. And looking very chic and sophisicated when they do so. When it comes to the common girl, though, most of us get a little insecure when it comes to donning some headwear. When you wear a hat you usually give off one of two vibes: 1) The “I’m so fashionable and trendy that I wear hats” vibe, or, 2) The “OMG that girl looks ridiculous in that hat” vibe. If you love headwear but you’re nervous that you might be vibin’ with number 2 if you even try on a cute hat in the store, follow these tips. If you know where to buy em and how to wear em, pulling off the hat trend will be a cinch.

Fedora – This menswear inspired felt hat makes a bold statement by itself so make sure the rest of your outfit is relatively low key. Wear it with you’re hair down and use it to dress up a simple classic outfit like Hillary Duff’s. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, try tilting it to one side. Tres chic!

Splurge: Tarnish Fedora With Bow available at Nordstroms – $158.00

Bargain: Stripe Trim Fedora at Forever 21 – $10.80

Cossack – Take a cue from the Russians with a faux fur Cossack hat this fall/winter. These hats will definitely keep your head warm when it’s cold out. The look to aim for with a Cossack hat is luxurious and bundled up. Wear with a nice winter coat (when it starts to get cold out, obviously), a scarf, and boots for the ultimate winter-y look. Shiny lip gloss and pink blush will make you look especially polished and put together. Make sure you take the hat off when you get inside, however, to avoid severe head sweating.

Buy a Russian-Style Faux Fur Cossack Hat at FabulousFurs.com – $49.00

Cloche – These bell shaped French hats are extremely stylish this season and super and easy to wear. A cloche pairs well with any simple, understated outfit. I recommend a sweater, tight jeans, and high heeled leather boots.

Purchase an UGG Australia Classic Back Snap cloche at Zappos.com – $107.10

Or if you’re on a budget try this black felt cloche from Forever 21 – $12.80.

Beret – These are by far my favorite hats. I love the way they look super low-key – like you just threw it on as you ran out the door. This hat is perfect for every season and occassion. Just like the cloche, the knit beret looks great with any outfit, but to avoid lookin’ like you’re trying too hard, it’s a good idea to keep the outfit basic.

Splurge: Marc by Marc Jacobs brown dotted wool pleated beret available at Bluefly.com for $159.00.

Bargain: Basic wool black beret at SolidColorHats.com for $7.50