Hair flair can transform an entire outfit and conceal your unwashed hair on days when you just don’t have time to shower (i.e. after a particularly long Tiki Tuesday). More importantly, unlike those expensive skinny jeans you picked up at the Nordstrom half-yearly sale, hair flair will always fit regardless of those holiday pounds, the freshmen fifteen, or the beer belly you’ve been sporting since football season (curse you keg stands and beer pong).

Well, if you want the same accessories as the Upper East Siders but don’t have the same cash monay, don’t worry.  Here is a thrifty way to get the fabulous look without paying the big bucks. And if this particular style isn’t for you, something is wrong with you we’ve got another awesome DIY hair flair project you can do instead.

What You’ll Need:

Stretchy headbands/headwraps: You probably have one of these lying around, but if not, these are super cheap and you can pick them up at drug stores like CVS, Long’s, Duane Read or at any beauty store. My favorite brand to use is Scunci No Slip-Hair Grips because they come in packs of 4, are comfortable, and easy to decorate. Use a black headwrap to keep it classy or a bolder color to add some extra pop.

Fabric: A foot or two of any type of cloth fabric in any color/design you want! Most craft stores sell fabric squares meant for quilting, which are perfect for creating your hair flair, as your fabric needs to be cut in a square shape before you begin. Bonus: Many craft stores (Michael’s or JoAnn’s) have tons of leftover fabric scraps that you can get for super cheap. Just ask one of those ladies with the scissors!

The fabric color/design you choose can make your headwrap traditional and classy (think colors like Ivory, Champagne, Black, Grey, Red, etc), or have a little more funk (think designs like zebra, polka dots, stripes, or neon!).

Beads, Rhinestones, Buttons, MORE FLAIR!: These are optional materials, but will add that extra spunk to your homemade headband.

Hot Glue Gun/Glue: Every crafter’s best friend and sometimes lover. You’ll need this for a few steps throughout the DIY process.

What You’ll Do:

1. Cut fabric into a 6×6 inch square piece. Cut another 4×4 inch square piece. (Really, you can cut these two pieces in any size square you want [depending how big and bold you want your headwrap to be]. Just make sure one piece is bigger than the other.)

2. Lay the fabric face-down (so the design/color side of your fabric isn’t showing) and grab it in the middle. Using your other hand, twist the fabric around the finger holding the center. The twisting will swirl the fabric to create a ruche-like effect. Hold finger in place, then fold and hot glue the four corners of the fabric to the center. Repeat with the smaller piece of fabric. You should now have two bubbly looking pieces of fabric!

3. Add a small button, rhinestone, or bead in the center of the fabric if you want to add some extra glitz.

4. Now, hot glue the two ruched fabric bubbles to the headwrap, side by side. Let dry. Once the pieces are glued to the headband, take some leftover fabric, cut out a small strip and glue it behind the fabric pieces (inside the headband). This will make your headwrap look more polished and be more comfortable for you to wear!

5. Wear your new hair flair! Wear like a traditional headband or pull it low across your forehead for a more bohemian look.

6. Take all compliments modestly, direct all admirers to CollegeCandy, and tell them, yes, you are a fashion visionary and trendsetter.

Now that I’m back in school and broke thanks to a few trips to the bookstore, saving money is more essential than ever. But so is a brand new fall wardrobe!

Luckily, American Eagle is a great stop for super comfy weekend/gym/off-to-class clothes on the cheap. There are always awesome deals to be had, and here are just a few of my favorite things.

I love the look of this preppy, college-y sweater. It just makes me want to grab a book and some coffee and spend the afternoon studying in the quad.  But more realistically, it’s perfect for those fall days, especially with a pair of skinny jeans and flats, Keds or Chuck Taylors.

I’m a fan of oversized sunglasses (and use them year round), and I especially love ‘em when they’re under $20. These are on clearance for $14.95, which means it’s not the end of the world if you smush them under a pile of books in your haste to get out of lecture.

Sweatpants are normally not acceptable daytime attire for anyone, but there are exceptions to that rule and these pants are definitely an exception. Not only are they fitted, but the detail around the ankle dresses them up a bit and sets them apart from those torn up boys’ sweats you wear around the dorm.

This skirt is adorable and goes perfectly with a simple tee, some flats or even tights & boots when it gets a little cooler.

Wear it under a cardigan, a boyfriend blazer or on its own – this simple tee is cute, comfy and a great way to make a statement.

Polos are another cute, comfy and easy option and I am diggin’ the rugby stripes (and color selection) of this one.

I find boy shorts to be some of the most comfy and flattering style of undies out there; you can be wedgie free but still totally sexy. And with the $4.95 price tag, you can easily afford a few pairs.

This tote is big and roomie and perfect to carry around campus or to the gym. If you’re not feelin’ the green, they have a couple other colors to choose from.

For many of you, school has already begun or will shortly, which means new additions to the wardrobe are necessary. Woohoo! But you don’t have to spend a lot to update that 2008 fall wardrobe.  Old Navy is a great place to get cute basics at super reasonable prices. Just pair these items (many of which are on sale!)  with the trendier items/accessories in your closet for a brand new look.

Here are a few pieces I found that’ll be great for the upcoming months…

Jeans are obviously a wardrobe staple in every college girl’s closet, but sometimes we need a little variety. I say that every gal needs a cute pair of khakis. You can wear them with a polo, a basic button down or a tee. I totally love the green of these ones. It’s a little different, but still totally neutral so you can wear these with just about anything!

I’m really digging the cut and print of this shirt (though they also have it in solid colors if print’s not your thang). But what I really heart about this tank is that you can wear it on it’s own before it gets too cool and also rock it under a boyfriend blazer for those chillier days.

Comfort is key for those long hours spent studying in the library, and these henleys are not only comfy & cute, the long sleeves are perfect for fall and even for layering come winter.

You can never go wrong with a pair of skinny jeans, especially for tucking into boots or pairing with a hot pair of pumps. But in case you’re a fan of other cuts of denim, most of ON’s jeans are on sale for $19 currently.

This may look like a basic skirt, but it might be the best deal of the year. You can rock this feminine and flirty skirt low on the waist for a more casual look, or pull it up high (to show off those legs) with a tight white tank for a more evening-appropriate look. And the teal? Hot.

It’s almost sweater weather and I love the way v-necks flatter the figure.  Plus, the argyle print is oh-so-preppy and cute for back-to-school. (Not an argyle fan?  They carry several solid colors that are adorable.)

Polo shirts are a wardrobe staple and this orange will translate right over from summer to fall with a little cardigan or white thermal underneath.

We’ve still got a few months left to wear open-toed shoes and these boho-inspired wedges are great with jeans, shorts or a cute mini.  They’re also a great way to get a little leg-lengthening height on a girls’ night out without those aching feet on the walk home.

When it comes to basics, Old Navy is definitely the way to go if you’re wanting both style and affordibility.

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.

Naturally, when I saw this J.Crew Garden Dress I needed to have it.

This is the kind of dress that works in almost every situation: date night, summer cookout, girls brunch, beach-front. With the right accessories, you can even take it edgy.

The Garden Dress is short and flirty, featuring an ultra-flattering fitted bust, and straight cut sillouhuette. The charm of the dress, however, comes from the raw-edged petals that adorn the bust line. If you’re a sucker for ruffles, then this dress is most definitely for you. Just pick your color – navy, papaya, shell, or white – and you have the perfect dress for what remains of summer ’09. Or, you know, get ‘em all for a little variety.

And, duh, you totally can!  J.Crew offers a 15% discount to college students when you bring in your student ID and shop in-store. Now that you know, run to your nearest J.Crew and grab this beauty and other preppy staples! 15% off means 15% more chinos with flamingos on them!

College brings a whole lot of new experiences, new lessons and new people. But it seems that no matter what school you go to, there are same characters on every campus. The overachiever, the frat house groupie and the Sensitive All-American.

The Sensitive All-American looks like he walked out of a photo shoot and landed on your campus. He is calm, cool and collected. He has a pristine reputation. Of course, rumors are dropped here and there, but they never stick. He is confident without being arrogant or cocky. He talks about his feelings. He has girls who are friends. Just friends. No benefits or complications.

He is a combination of the sensitive guy, the team player and the heart-throb.

He wears Abercrombie or American Eagle, but is more trendy than preppy. You can catch him in the dining hall sporting your school’s athletic gear. Whether he is eating by himself (yes, he is just that cool) or with the team, this guy always looks approachable. He is known around campus by everyone, including the freshmen. He transitions seamlessly from one person to the next, no matter if it’s a teammate, a professor, or the campus Bible Chucker. Even if he met you once three months ago, he will give you the nod or say “hey” as he passes by you on the way to practice/the library/the gym.

He is sociable; he goes to parties and hangs out at the bars on weekends. He is not a “safe” guy or your typical boring nice guy, but he doesn’t reek of danger. He’s the “lean back relax and enjoy the ride because it’s a good one” kinda guy.

He has a high GPA (think 4.0), does community service, and is captain of a preppy sport team (think Lacrosse or Soccer). He is devoted to his sport but would still make the time to be a great boyfriend.

The Sensitive All-American is crushed on by one or more members of all cliques, including his male companions. When he puts his arm around you it makes you swoon, but unlike most guys who use that as a sign of interest, to him it’s just a gesture. He’s just being a nice guy. Most likely, his heart was broken before and he is cautious with relationships. Too cautious. Some may say he is afraid.

And that only makes him cuter.

But whether you are the lucky girl to end up with him or not, he’s a great guy to have around campus…even if only to look at. Thank god for the Sensitive All-American.

So I was mighty surprised when I found myself coveting these sweet sneaks at Foot Locker last weekend.

I don’t know what it is, but I am in love with the retro sneaker that has made its way into every corner of the fashion world this year. Maybe its a deep desire to be cool. Or maybe I’m just sick of my brown Converse. Or my entire “going to the library” look.

I want to buy them, but I’m just not sure, 1) how to wear them, and 2) if they are totally

lame/ugly/horrible. I mean, I rarely get out of the Gap so how am I supposed to know what is trendy?

Help?

What do you think about the colorful sneaker? Love it or hate it?

All you have to do is click on the goods and - boom - you can buy the entire ensemble. Yes, we know; there is a spot for her in heaven.]

October 23rd marked Brit’s 10 years since Hit Me Baby One More Time hit radio stations and 7th grade girls dance routines nationwide, starting a school-girl frenzy. Everyone wanted to act, dress and be Britney (until she shaved her head and started walking around barefoot, that is). And this past year, Gossip Girl brought back the school-girl prep, showing us that What’s Old Becomes New Again, much like the current fads of 1990s flannels and studded belts.

So, in honor of this still-cute prepster look, which is in stores everywhere, I bring you this weeks Celebrity Chic On the Cheap: Let’s get Preppy One More Time. (Wow, I am so creative with words.)

Tiered Flannel Skirt- $19.99

The epitome of the school girl look. If you aren’t feeling the skirt, you can wear everything else in this look with jeans tucked into boots. Adorable.

Prep Cardigan:

So you didn’t go to an Ivy; that doesn’t mean you can’t look like you did. This sweater just screams Yale, but without that ridiculously large debt from tuition, room and board.

Gold Bow Headband

You know that everyone thinks you’re sweet… until you tie your shirt in a bow, throw some fluffy things in your hair and start doing dances in front of the lockers. I mean, this headband is cute and functional, and the bow makes it perfectly preppy.

Nude Layering tank:

Preppy girls are modest, so everything needs a layering tank (you can’t show everyone your goods!). Throw this one on, add some rugged boots or patent pumps and you’re good to go!

My mother continually assures me that I’m lucky. “Dresses fit you so well,” she tells me. That’s easy for her to say; I imagine most mothers, deep down, want to dress their daughters in conservative dresses that leave a lot to the imagination, but leave me looking like I’m wearing a sack on top.

Forget showing off cleavage; it’s pretty hard when you barely have cleavage. I don’t mind looking nice in the occasional baggy shirt for a job interview, but how is a flat-chested girl supposed to look Hott?

I worry about my appeal to guys more often than I should. To be crude, can any guy be passionately attracted to a girl if he can’t get a handful of her? The comments I’ve seen on this site have been encouraging, but still, it can be disheartening when I have to avoid strapless dresses purely because I can’t hold them up. There’s a lot of boob-fixation in the media these days, and magazines, movies and tv shows can be insidious. They can start convincing us that large breasts are all guys think about and desire in a woman.

My situation has forced me to get creative when it comes to sex appeal; that’s why I look for fashion inspiration in other decades.

For all you fellow A-cuppers out there, I recommend looking to an era of fashion when flat-chested girls were celebrated. Look to the twenties, when women were sexy, glamorous, and flat all at the same time! I look for plunging necklines, button-down shirts and dresses, and boatnecks to show off my wide shoulders. We flat girls may not be able to exude sex appeal, but we can look glamorous. I also recommend looking to the seventies for fashion inspiration. A fashion favorite of mine is Diane Keaton in Annie Hall. She made wearing ties and vests sexy; there’s something very classy and even sensual about the preppy/androgynous look.

So if you’re a flat girl like me, don’t get yourself down. Find things that flatter your shape, and enjoy the blessings of a flat existence: going braless with those dresses with the low backs, running down stairs pain-free, and not having much ground to cover during the monthly self-exam.

[Photo courtesy of ebaumsworld.com]

The perk of resort wear is that it’s classy and respectable until it reaches Frat Row. You can be adorable without dressing like a desperate-to-impress freshman, all it takes is a little dedication to the cause.

Collecting argyle sweaters and linen trousers can help you transition into a non-party persona for the workplace with no trouble. Here are some tips for dressing to the yuppie role without coming off as a complete douchebag:

1) Collars down. At all times. Ladies, if you’re going for the cleavage factor and rocking a Lacoste to the bar, pair it with pumps, ass-flattering denim, and go crazy. Unbutton as low as you dare, but find a cute contrasting cami to toss under that pique polo.

2) Set a limit to the number of pastels you go with. Your boyfriend can wear as much pink as he likes, and so can you, but just remember that the phrase “too much of a good thing” came about for a reason.

3) Pearls are lovely… in moderation. A pearl necklace is a great staple, and you can wear your own for composite pictures! Joking. Ish. Also, solitaire cultured pearl earrings are simple and classy. Wearing the set altogether may just be a touch overboard; pick one and go with it.

4) Be careful with prints. Madras needs a solid piece to balance it out. No tartan and argyle in the same ensemble. Mixing patterns is fine so long as one is bold and one is subtle.

5) Layering is key. Button-downs with cardigans or pullover sweaters are always great, and look adorable with a little denim skirt or pair of twill shorts when it’s a little warmer. Blazers and jackets are great to pair with a cute cami or silk going-out shirt, keeping you sophisticated enough to go to a nice wine or martini bar, and casual enough to go to a house party. It also gives you the option to adapt to whatever temperature you happen to encounter. And on that note…

5) Dress for the weather. Resort wear is geared toward a warm environment, but remember that you’re not likely to go yachting in mid-winter during the workweek. Seersucker generally is only allowed between Memorial and Labor Days. I don’t ordinarily follow the “white” rule, but this one I concur with. It just looks awkward unless you’re living in a fantastic climate.

Suggestions for perfecting the look? Try J. Crew, Vineyard Vines, Vera Bradley for some extremely Connecticut accessories, Polo by Ralph Lauren, and Lacoste.

Want to look yuppie on a budget? You sound just like me. Hit up outlet malls, overstock.com, or bigger department stores like Macy’s to pick up those sale items. Polo shirts don’t need a pony or gator, and argyle isn’t affiliated with a particular label or brandname. Happy shopping!