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/2010/01/12/8-under-20-heavenly-couture/ http://collegecandy.com/2010/01/12/8-under-20-heavenly-couture/#comments Tue, 12 Jan 2010 21:00:03 +0000 Jess T. - Columbia University http://collegecandy.com/?p=50769 ]]>

It’s no secret that you can easily find stylish looks for under $20 all over the place. From Forever 21 to Wet Seal, us gals know where to go for the deals.  Occasionally, though, my quest for cuteness leads me to a website I’ve never heard of that has some great finds, like this one: Heavenly Couture.  Nothing on this site is over $17.95. Nothing!

Really, with a claim like that, can you go wrong?

Here are a few of my favorite finds.

This top will look darling with a pair of leggings and some riding boots.  Perfect for a day at the mall or chillin’ out on campus.

This blouse is professional enough to wear to work or your fab internship, but sexy enough (unbutton a few extra buttons!) to wear out for de-stressing drinkies with the girls or a dinner date with that hot new guy.

The nearly A-line shape of this romper will look good on just about any body type. And I know it may be a bit too soon to be loading up on shorts and tanks, but you could work it with a pair of tights, or just put it in your Spring Break wardrobe wish list. It’s always good to have some inspiration for those leg/arm workouts.

There are three things I am loving about this cardigan: 1) It’s a cardigan, so it’s perfect for all seasons. 2) It’s bright fuchsia, which is just gorge. 3) The big buttons and hip pockets add some adorable flair.

Workout clothes can get so damn expensive, but why? Who needs $100 yoga pants when you can get a perfectly good pair for $10? I guarantee your butt will look just as good Downward Dogging in these.

Great earrings for under $10? I’m in.

Yup, those are dark wash skinny jeans for only $12. Take one reader’s advice and pick up some studs, sew ‘em on, and make yourself a pair of super hot rocker jeans for under $20.

This tunic’s super low cut top allows you to sex it up for a night out on the town (add black skinnies and a pair of booties – divine!), or add a cami underneath and you’ve got an ensemble that’s acceptable for brunch with the ‘rents.

As a frugalista, I’m always on the lookout for new bargains and I’m betting you are too, so hopefully I’ve opened your eyes to another great site for just that.  Enjoy!

There are many styles of boots in fashion this season, from shooties (shoe booties) all the way on up to the hottest style of ’09, the over-the-knee boot. It’s super sexy and a great way to add some va-va-va voom to your basic jeans and t-shirt combo. Yes, without looking trashy.

Boots aren’t cheap, but they’re a versatile addition to any college girl’s wardrobe. The perfect riding boot can be worn with jeans tucked in, or even with leggings or a dress – meaning they can dress up or dress down any outfit.

Boots are so popular right now that even the ugly Sorels of our childhood days are getting in on the action.  These super-functional boots have gotten a makeover so they will not only keep your feet dry in snowbanks, but they’ll look pretty damn adorable in the process.

You want to be warm, dry and totally hot? It’s time to get thee some boots. Tall, short, ankle or knee-high – there is literally something for everyone. Here are a few to drool over inspire you.

But I do follow GG fashion. It’s cute, it’s fashion forward… and it’s so expensive I think my entire college tuition could be paid off in one of Blair’s Chanel ensembles. But regardless of price tag, I want it.

So imagine how happy I was to see that kick-ass designer Anna Sui made a “Gossip Girl” look for Target. (Sure, some people aren’t sure about it, but I am. 100% sure, in fact.) From great fall dresses paired with opaque tights and riding boots, to perfect over-size cardigans, Gossip Girl Fashion + Target = one “damn I look goooood” me (and you).

From dresses to tops, Anna has some great and, most importantly, affordable looks for fall.

So shop happily, ladies!

XOXO,
BS
(That’s Budget Stylista not bullsh*t. Just wanted to clarify.)

The Girls:

Well, I lied.

Fact is, aside from the essential cardigan there are a few other essentials that should be stashed in your dorm room (and no, I’m not talking about your birth control or condoms… although those are probably just as important, unless you like to frequent drugstores for awkward encounters with pregnancy tests and Plan B boxes).

Where was I? Oh yeah – boots.

A great pair of fall boots may even rival the essential-ness of a great cardigan. Pair the two together and – shazam! – you’ve got yourself one fabulous looking outfit, even if what’s underneath resembles a burlap sack or something out of Heidi Montag’s closet. The great thing about tall riding boots (combined with a long cardigan or top) is that they can turn leggings into acceptable pants (key word here being long top - I don’t need to see your jelly shaking on my walk to class with my morning latte), and we all know the benefit of not being stuck  in a 3 hour lecture in too-tight jeans and our muffin top spilling over onto our crush’s lap.

Un.comfort.able on all levels.

Boots also prevent the awful wet socks in the winter time, are comfortable to walk around campus, and make the hungover-hot-mess look you could have going on look instantly chic and pulled together. Can Uggs do that? I think NOT.

Bottom line: Boots are a must have, but usually muy caro (that’s spanish for really expensive.  See mom! I did sort of pay attention in High School!). Here are some affordable options that cut back on the price but not on the style.

I l-o-v-e these options:

For a long time, I thought Newport News was a total “mom store” with terribly outdated and, well, momish stuff.  Then, a few months ago  I noticed some of their stuff in mags like Lucky, InStyle and Glamour and realized that they actually had some super cuteness going on.

Since then I’ve bought several items from them and they’re not only stylish and well-made, they’re great for a gal on a budget. Which is me. And you.

I combed the entire website and found so many adorable things, many for under $20, but here are my top 8, MySpace style:

I love simple jersey dresses for their comfort and versatility…you can wear this with flip flops/sandals, flats, wedges or super sexy heels for a totally different look every time (not to mention, it comes in a wide array of colors).

This peasant style top is a great way to change it up from that basic tee and it looks great with everything from jeans to pencil skirts to wide leg trousers (and once again it comes in a great range of colors).

Leopard print is all over the place this season and this tank (which comes in a pack of 2; 1 print & 1 black) is the perfect way to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe. Wear it by its lonesome or under a boyfriend blazer or blazer.

Close-toed wedges are a great shoe for fall and early winter and with the ankle strap, they look super cute with tights.  They have them in a deep red that is perfect for this fall’s red trend.

I love the cut and sleeves of this tunic – totally unique from any other tunics lining your closet. It will look great with that summer tan, some skinny jeans or leggings and a cute pair of flats, boots or heels.

This sweater may look a bit frumpy at first glance, but it has potential to not only be super comfy and cozy come fall/winter, but it’ll also look super cute with a pair of skinny jeans and some riding boots.

Bangles are a great way to jazz up a basic ensemble and I love the woven texture of this one. Plus, at under $5, it’s really hard to say no.

It’s all about going girlie this season with lace, ruffles and other feminine details and this shirt incorporates both lace and ruffles. Hello, more trend for your buck! It’ll look great on it’s own with some fun accessories, or under a cardi or cropped blazer.

Yeah, so clearly we’ve all missed the memo on Newport News. This store will most definitely be in my “online shopping while extremely bored in lecture” rotation. You might want to add it, too.

There’s nothing that puts a smile on my face like finding a fantastic bargain, and since we all wanna look good in a crappy economy, finding those deals is even more important these days.  Each week I’ll feature one store/website where you can find eight A-dorable items for under $20 (not too shabby, right?).

This week the store of choice is Wet Seal.  Not only does it have cute and trendy clothes on the cheap, if you order from the website there’s a flat rate shipping fee of $5, which you can order just by clicking on any (or all!) of the items below.

Plaid is a super current trend that will only get bigger in the fall, and this tunic button down is the perfect way to rock it out.  The cut will accentuate curves so you’ll avoid looking like a lumber jack and this style will look cute with a pair of denim shorts/denim mini while the weather’s still warm, or with a cute pair of skinny jeans or leggings come fall.

This checked mini is adorable and will easily roll over into fall with a pair of tights and booties.

The nights are sure to get chillier (soon, unfortch) and this jacket is perfect for those late summer evenings, or to layer when the weather gets even cooler. Plus, the variety of bright colors will let you stand out in the sea of grey/black that comes with fall.

I am totes in love with this dress; the tulip hemline, the button details at the waistline… It’s hard to believe it’s only $19.50. And, as a major bonus, it’s probably the most versatile piece you can add to that wardrobe. It looks cute for day with a pair of gladiator sandals, sexy for night with some heels,  and it’ll easily translate into your fall wardrobe with tights and boots.

Flats are an essential in any girl’s shoe collection and it’s fun to have a pair or two that aren’t just your basic color to add a fun accent to any outfit.  The buffalo plaid print will add some kick (pun intended) to any ensemble and will look totally darling with a pair of black skinny jeans.

Basic tees are a staple in every wardrobe.  I’m a personal fan of v-necks as they let you go casual without giving up the sexy. At $3.99 a pop, you can grab this one up in every color.

Hats are a great way to add flair to a simple look (por ejemplo: jeans, a basic v-neck tee and some Chuck Taylors) and a crocheted beret is perfect for fall and winter.

You can’t go wrong with a simple sheer scarf to punch up an outfit and keep those hickeys covered. And at only $3, you can easily justify buying a different one for every day of the week.

We also know our feet are one of the quickest body parts to feel that freeze and having popsicles for toes, well that can just ruin your whole day. However, you don’t have to give up style in order to keep those footsies warm; there are plenty of boot options out there that can help us escape the oversized, ugly appearance of so many snow boots and, yes, Uggs. (I’m sorry. Contrary to popular belief, I think these are far from fashionable and guys agree.) You can find them in all sorts of prices ranges, but I have found tons of adorable options that are all $150 or less.

Trudging around in snow up to your ankles can be a real pain, but there are some darling snow boot options out there. They may not be day-to-night kinda shoes, but at least they’ll keep you warm (and cute) on your way to class.

I found all three of these styles at Target for extremely reasonable prices. Click on the boot for more info.

I love these boots, and at $36.99, how can you say no?

These boots, are a bit pricier ($79.99), but Sorel makes a very sturdy and warm boot, and the houndstooth print is so perfect for this season.

These are a really basic pair, but they’re the perfect price ($34.99), and you can easily tuck skinny jeans into them.

If you’re absolutely hooked on the look and feel of Uggs, but want to go for something a little more sleek and stylish, try one of these options out…

These are available at Payless and are on sale for $26.99!!

I am absolutely DROOOLING over these: they’re waterproof, have microfur lining, and a thermolite footbed, so they’re bound to keep your feet warm while looking incredibly chic at the same time. They also come in 2 colors (cement gray and black) and 2 materials (suede and patent).

These Michael Kors boots are shearling (like Uggs), but have a much sleeker design. Plus, the added shearling details are just super cute over a pair of jeans.

If you’re going for a more rugged look, these two styles should appease you…

These riding boots are adorable and functional. In addition to being super cute, they have rugged soles for good traction and fur lining to insure warmth.

This boot has the look of a motorcycle boot, but it happens to be waterproof so it won’t leak slushy snow onto your socks. It also comes in three colors. The downside is this boot doesn’t have a lining, so be sure to put on a thick pair of warm socks.

And if you need a look that can translate from day-to-night and can be worn into a nice restaurant or bar, check these babies out…

These Michael Kors booties will look adorable under a pair of bootcut jeans, and you’ve got a rubber wedge heel so you get some height, but you’re less likely to fall on your ass in slippery conditions. They come in 4 colors, are shearling lined, and are on sale for a $59.95, SCORE!!

Here is a pair of gorgeous leather knee high boots that also happen to be water proof! Ward off those wintry conditions and still look trendy…who knew it was possible?!?

Try these out for a fun take on the riding boot. Patent leather, waterproof and lined to keep your feet warm, they’ll look fantastic with a cute sweater and a pair of skinny jeans.

Check out my boot picks for fall below; from the low end to the highest end, I got somethin’ for everyone.

(Click on the pics for more info/to add em to your already overstocked shoe collection!):

Over-the-knee boots

This thigh-grazing style has been seen on fashionable celebs like Mischa Barton. The look is very fashion-forward and a bit hard to pull off, but when done right can look amazing. They look best with pants tucked in, not with short skirts or dresses with a short hem, which leave you lookin’ like a hooker.

If you are looking to splurge, check out the Joie boots on the left ($475), or, for the rest of us, the Newport News boot on the right is only $49. Bonus: they have a cool fold-over top so they can be worn two ways.

Buckle boots

Boots with buckles have a cool rocker look that’s a perfect juxtaposition to fall’s hippie inspired clothing – the more buckles, the more badass you’ll look. Look for ones with a mid- to high-heel in black or dark brown. Slouchy or upright both work, but stay away from an over-the-knee silhouette; it’ll look too “I like to ride motorcycles with my mullet-friendly boyfriend.”I especially like these pricey ones from Fiorentini + Baker ($775) on the left, but the cheaper Dollhouse ($83) ones with a low heel and six buckles are fantastic too.

Fringed boots

Fall is all about fringe, from fringe vests to fringe purses to fringe boots. Kate Moss definitely swept in the style by wearing Minnetonka fringe boots last year. You can pick up the same Minnetonka boots as her at Urban Outfitters ($78) or try a higher-end pair from Michael Kors ($465) with five layers of fringe.

Riding boots

Riding-style boots have been in for a while now, so if you haven’t already gotten yourself a pair, it’s definitely time to. Look for ones with buckles over the ankle or laces that end before the calf, and go for a low to flat heel. Thankfully there are tons of great options whether you’re broke or swimming in extra money from the big birthday.The best ones for a super low cost are these flat black ones from Mossimo for Target ($30) on the left. But even those aren’t nearly as fantastic as the uber price ($265) Corso Como ($265) ones on the right. Laces and a buckle? Totally worth the splurge.

Jewel-toned boots

If you’ve always wanted to rock a pair of purple boots but you didn’t think plum on your feet was appropriate, here’s your chance. Rich jewel tones on shoes and purses are perfect for fall. Look for deep purples, reds, blues, and greens in luxurious (or faux lux) suede or leather. Go low heel, high heel, ankle or knee high; it all works. I’m really into these sapphire blue suede ones from L’Autre Chose ($294) and these slouchy Steve Madden ($90) purple suede boots.

Ankle boots

Thank god ankle boots are still in because I’m obsessed with them. My favorites are ones that rise slightly above the ankle and have a platform (very Mary-Kate Olsen), but there are also fabulous flat ones, bootie ones, oxford style ones, granny looking ones, etc, etc, etc. Booties for everyone!

My faves are these affordable studded platform lace-up booties from Colin Stuart ($89) and these curvy grey ones from Ash ($274) with a cute four-button closure.

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