[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), and 2. A major lack of storage space (for all the crap you've got). For these two reasons, maximizing what you already 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.]

If you made a New Year’s Resolution to wear sweatpants less, it’s time to start finding alternatives that are just as easy to wear and comfortable. Not possible, you say? Well listen up, woman! That cozy, warm, comfy feeling you get with sweats can be mimicked with a warm sweater, such as a shawl-collared pullover. It’s versatile, soft, warm, but still looks cute. And if you know how to make it work in advance, putting together a cute look with a sweater and various other wardrobe staples can be even easier than throwing on a pair of oversized sweats. Yes, it’s true.

Outfit 1:

Deets: Sweater, Jeans, Boots, Hat, Jacket.

A simple alternative to wearing sloppy sweats is skinny jeans and a shawl-collar sweater. Adding your go-to boots (I’m talking leather boots, NOT sloppy winter boots) keeps the look warm and toasty for winter, while still looking sleek. (And if it’s extra cold you can always add super-thick socks underneath!) If you’re trekking in the snow, a jacket and a hat are the finishing touches to brave the cold in a “I can keep this stuff on and still look cute” sorta way… and maybe live up to New Year’s Resolution 2: Go to class.

Outfit 2:

Deets: Sweater, Skirt, Tights, Boots, Ring.

True story: putting on sweats is just. so. easy. Truer story: so is slipping on a casual skirt with some tights. And we all know that looks wayyyy cuter. A shawl-collared sweater (or any pullover sweater, for that matter) goes nicely with this cord mini-skirt – though if you only own a denim skirt or pencil skirt, those will work as well. Depending on how much room remains in your skirt after your holiday overindulgence, you might be able to tuck your sweater in. Add tights and boots (keeping them in the same family makes your legs look ultra long, as opposed to the unflattering shape of a sweatpant) and a simple ring to accessorize this outfit, then out you go lookin’ all warm and fabulous.

Outfit 3:

Deets: Sweater, Skirt, Tights, Scarf, Booties.

If you are looking for a way to extend the wear of a summer floral skirt – or if you’ve already started scoping out next spring’s items – you can winterize the skirt with tights and a sweater. A pair of boots ground the look, while a colourful scarf adds another burst of colour to the look. If your toes get cold easily, you can also add a thick pair of socks into this style of boot – it looks cute even if they poke out the top just enough.

Find out other ways to re-work what you’ve already got stuffed in that closet of yours.

[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 rockstar Rihanna) are spending $5,000 on an ensemble you don’t have to.]

It’s been awhile since Gwen Stefani reigned pop music (yet I know I’m not the only one who still gets “this shiz is bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s” stuck in her head), but she definitely hasn’t been slacking on being a fashion icon. Despite the fact that she has two kids, she never seems to leave the house looking anything less than perfectly coiffed and styled. Gwen’s look is so visually inspiring and fun, with tons of vibrant colors and ’80s-inspired festivity.

We’re getting deeper into the doldrums of winter, but our wardrobes definitely don’t need to be as dreary as the weather, right? Let’s all take a hint from Ms. Stefani and turn up the heat for the long, cold winter ahead.

Shopping Deets: Leopard Pants – ASOS, $24.14; Tunic – Forever 21, $10.50; Jacket – PacSun, $24.99; Boots – Target, $49.99; Bag – Target, $24.99.

Who doesn’t love a great cowl neck sweater? So dramatic, but so simple. Combined with this great contrasting pea coat, the top half of this outfit is so refined and conservative. Then, hello, leopard print! Animal print always makes a comeback in the winter, but instead of going for shoes/tops/scarves, try these amazing skinnies. They’re eye-catching, spunky, and totally awesome. Paired with neutral colors on top, they’re toned down enough to wear to class without looking like you tripped and fell out of a terrible music video from 1983.

Finishing off the look is a pair of badass knee-high black boots and a black crossbody purse that don’t compete with the crazy print of the jeans. This look is the perfect mix of feminine, quirky, and risk-taking, just like Gwen Stefani.

Get more celebrity looks for less here.

[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 "who the hell are you and why are you so beautiful" Rosie Huntington-Whiteley) are spending $5,000 on an ensemble you don’t have to.]

There’s no way I could continue to write a fashion column without highlighting Rihanna. This girl is one of the most eclectic celebrities out there. One day, the paparazzi snaps photos of her in suspenders and harem pants; the next, you could easily see her in a body-contouring mini-dress with 6-inch stilettos…going out to lunch.

Rihanna attained her fashionista status by being completely and utterly balls to the walls…how can you not love it?

However, the outfit I’m re-creating today is actually one of Rihanna’s tamer looks, because though you, CollegeCandy reader, are fabulous, you are bound to certain rules of fashion that do not apply to celebrities. Read: you can’t really pull this off for class.  But it’s still hot, not just in its own right, but relative to that tragic gaggle of girls strutting around campus thinking Uggs, leggings, and Northface = high fashion.

Shopping Information: Military Jacket - Walmart, $9; Tweed Jacket – Forever 21, $32.80; Sweater Tunic – Forever 21, $13.80; Jeggings – Forever 21, $8.80; Over-The-Knee Boots – Target, $49.99; Hat – Express, $18.67.

To start things off, I gave you two options here. One is a tailored military jacket, similar to the one Rihanna is wearing, but so much cheaper. The other, the gray tweed, is very structured like Rihanna’s coat but in a completely different material (and we all already know tweed is a wonderful addition to anyone’s wardrobe). They both make wonderful additions to this outfit and still maintain the overall look and feel Rihanna’s got goin’ on.

Underneath the jacket is a super warm and comfortable sweater tunic that would just as hot over colorful tights as it would over your favorite pair of jeans. For this outfit, I chose jeggings because they meld to your legs and make it much it much easier to slip into these amazing thigh high boots. I know, thigh-highs have a skanky connotation, but it is so easy to make them modest, and still super sassy. (And, hello, can we talk about these Target boots? Deal. of. the. century.)

Of course, an ensemble inspired by Rihanna must include some totally unexpected element, and in this one, it’s the bright floral hat. I love that the hat from Express pairs stripes with a huge adorable flower, and it adds a touch of whimsy to this otherwise muted and sophisticated look.

Get more celebrity looks for less here.

I adore Selena Gomez. Her face looks as if it were lifted from a porcelain doll. Her hair is so luminous and luxurious. Her music is perfect for those times when you’re dancing in front of the mirror in your PJs with your hairbrush (in contrast to those times when you’re dancing in front of the mirror in your highest stilettos and a bottle of Smirnoff). She is the personification of rainbows and unicorns and puppies and everything that is fluffy and G-rated in this world. I love it.

Selena’s style is just as unpretentious and down-to-earth as the rest of her image. She’s totally youthful, fresh, and laid back. She is that girl who swears she “isn’t even into fashion,” but she always looks current and hip, and you never see her wearing the same ensemble twice.

She is essentially every friend I’ve ever had and secretly resented totally admired.

Luckily, this easy-breezy style fits perfectly into the college style scene and, even better, is not at all difficult (or expensive) to emulate.

Product Information: Blazer, Sweater, Jeans, Boots, Scarf, Bag

Boyfriend blazers have been in for the past few seasons, and this fall is no exception. This particular one is corduroy, which is so quintessentially fall, and can be a staple for years to come. Adding a black/white shirt adds a little bit of flair to an overall very neutral outfit. You can throw on any sort of solid scarf, but I love the idea of mixing prints in the same color family for a little extra visual interest. And don’t be afraid of pairing a black bag with brown boots. If Selena’s outfit teaches us anything it’s that it can totally work.

This is such a great look because it’s fashion-forward but still sticking with clothes you most likely already own. By mixing and matching colors that clash, but still fall under the realm of “neutral”, you can create an adorbz look that is so easy to customize and personalize.

Get more celebrity looks for less here.

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!

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!

If my dry skin and red nose tell me anything it’s that the brutally cold months of winter are here. (Or that I should really invest in some moisturizer.) And they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. If you’re one of the many unlucky souls trudging through the arctic tundra to get anywhere, good luck. Better start layering now, because it’s gonna take awhile.

Luckily, The Gap has come to the rescue with some majorly cute layering pieces (that are all on the cheap!)  that can take your winter from holy-hell-I-can’t-feel-my-limbs to OMG-it’s-really-cold-but-yay!-I-still-look-cute. Because no matter how hard those snowflakes are whipping us in the face, we still deserve to look good. For cheap. There are far more important things to spend our money on, like extra hot lattes from The Bux.

Just because you have to bundle up to ward off those freezing cold temperatures doesn’t mean you have to look big and bulky. This sweater is extra warm, but also totally cute. Pair it with a bright scarf for extra heat and fabulosity.

It may be cold outside, but you know it’s gonna be a sweat-box in that party. You’re going to need something light and cute, and this ruffle tank is just right. The color will have you standing out amongst the sea of black and gray, and the scoop neck adds a hint of sex appeal. Pair with some skinny jeans and booties (and a heavy coat) and you’re ready to shake your groove thang.

Not only would this tee look totally divine under your boyfriend blazer/cardigan, but it’s Product Red! You can look damn good and feel good about doing some good. It’s that good.

Yes, that’s right – a good go-to pair of jeans for $19.99. And the bootcut is just perfect to slide over those Uggs or Sorels for your cold, wet trek to class.

Winter is all about layering, so why not layer with something cute and sexy? This long-sleever is from the Gap’s favorites collection, meaning it’s super soft and will fit like a glove. And that deep v-neck? Who says you can’t show a little skin during the winter months?

A basic long sleeve shirt? Not so much with that adorable detailing on the sleeve. Let those sleeves down when the wind is whipping you, then roll that ish back up when you’re back indoors and starting to sweat.

Who knew Gap did accessories so well? This satin braided bracelet can dress up any outfit, or you can pair it with some gold bangles to add a bit of classic-meets-rock-star to your look.

This bright and beautiful scarf can do some serious double duty this season: wear it outside to keep that neck warm, then keep it on inside to jazz up whatever you’re layering underneath. Sigh. It’s just so pretty.

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

I have officially decided my heaven will be the inside of a JCrew store…. with a scantily clad, Abercrombie model serving me mojitos.

I’ll be surrounded by ruffled necklines, belted cashmere pullovers, and embellished tees. And of course I will be wearing the Glitter Pocket Cardigan….which has been on my mind since I saw it online while I was shopping during class.

This sweater has quickly pushed itself to the top of my wish list, and for good reason. We all love cardigans – what else can be worn with literally everything and instantly pull an outfit together? (You know it’s good when I can throw it over my walk-the-dog-flannel-pants-and-UGGS-combo and not look like a hobo).

But cardigans are pretty much all the same, which knocks the urgency with which we need a new one down a couple notches. That was until JCrew came out with the Glitter Pocket Cardigan. It’s stunningly chic while still being effortlessly casual, which is pretty much perfection for college students with not a lot of time, but a lot of need to look good (dinners, parties, hot men?!).

It’s made of merino wool, which is heaven to my skin’s ears since it is dreading itchy winter sweater season. It’s a longer silhouette hitting below the hip, meaning you don’t have to worry about the tank underneath riding up all night, revealing your inner plumber. And the embellished pockets are fresh and unexpected…and just totally fabulous.

It’s not quite in my price bracket, but since wonderful JCrew gives a 15% student discount it’s definitely on its way to being there. Plus, while I’m there I can get a complimentary personal shopping appointment, where some magical JCrew employee will style me in all the latest fashions. That’s a deal too good to pass up, even for a cocktail-poor, 99-cent-Ramen-dinner-eating college girl.

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.