Fall is my favorite fashion season because it’s all about transitioning; changing your wardrobe, slowly but surely, over to winter wear. With cold weather comes adaptations, and that also applies when it comes to clothes! Today, I’m taking a summery dress and showing you how to wear it on Indian summer and early winter days. Presenting the Floral Ruffle Dress (no points for creativity) from Wet Seal.

This cute, patterned dress features a black shell with a printed chiffon overlay. The unique florals feature tiny red and light pink flowers. It has a scoop-neck top and elastic waist, along with a cape-like top and sleeves. The whole dress is very forgiving and flattering – sure to suit many unique body shapes. Like I said, we’re going to explore how this dress fares in different climates.

Let’s start with warm.

On a warm day, a chiffon dress is a great choice. I chose red floral flats that perfectly compliment the print of the dress. The light pink leatherette purse will fit all your school supplies or necessities for a day of shopping, while also matching the pattern. A brown belt is a cute way to break up the dress and add even more definition at your waist. Top it off with simple accessories (pearl studs, a charm bracelet) and you’re ready to go!

And now onto a chilly day.

Dresses are surprisingly good for cool days too! Just add a pair of tights or leggings underneath and a neutral cardi to stay warm. Because the dress’ base is black, I stuck with that. Add a pair of boots in brown or grey as to not blend in the with leggings. The purple purse is very winter-y, but also matches the vampy red florals. Top it off (literally) with a black beanie, which serves the purpose of keeping you warm and also looks very boho-chic. I stayed with simple pendants for the jewelery, as the dress is already detailed.

And it’s that easy! Tights and cardis are your main weapon in the quest to winterize your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid of purchasing sundresses like this one at the end-of-summer sales going on now; you can definitely wear them throughout the winter.

[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.

Now that Spring is officially here and I’ve busted out my flip flops, I can’t wipe this loopy grin off my face. It just makes me so happy, especially after the winter we had in New York. I swear, if I had to step in one more brown, slushy puddle I was going to kick someone. But now that all those nasty puddles are gone and the restaurants are setting up their outside tables, all I can think about is iced coffee, al fresco cocktails, the joy that comes from going out without having to lug a giant coat along, and SUNDRESSES!

Summer sundresses are awesome for so many reasons:  they’re comfy, they’re cute and they’re totally versatile.  You can pair ‘em with all kinds of shoes (flats, sandals, heels, wedges, boots; you name it, it can work), and you can wear ‘em over a bikini, for those last warm days on campus, or for a night out.

Go for any of these babies that are all under $20 and really, you can’t go wrong.

The colors, the light fabric and the water color flowers on this halter dress just scream summer. Wear it for some daytime errands with a pair of white wedges, or go man hunting at night with a pair of sexy nude pumps.

Think there’s no such thing as a black sundress? This adorable frock from Target proves otherwise. Add some bright bangles for a summery pop of color.

I have no words for the perfection that is this denim dress. The neckline is perfect, the rouching is perfect, the length is perfect, and the price is beyond perfect.

This floral number will not only look perfect with some gladiator sandals all summer long, but come fall you can pull on an oversized cardi, some tights, and black ankle booties and keep on lovin’ it.

Coral looks great against some summer sun kissed skin. Accessorize with lots of gold or some bright pops of turquoise.

You don’t need to have a yacht to embrace nautical style. But if you do have a yacht and want to invite me, I’ll definitely come in this adorable dress.

I love the combination of black and bright pinks in this dress. It can easily go from day to night, class to dinner, or beach to bar.

If I didn’t already have a boyfriend, I’d marry this dress. The cut is flattering, the buttons are adorable and you can easily jazz it up with some funky bracelets.

I love tights. They not only keep me warm during the winter, but they’re also a fun way to express my personal style and give my outfit a little extra pizzazz.

Tights have been pretty popular for a few seasons now (thank god – no one wants to wear their annoying sister, hose, during the cold months) and there are tons of different styles out there ranging from funky to sexy to feminine. The surprising news is, tights can get really pricey. I’m not sure how something that rips so easily can cost so much, but I am not the one making the rules. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable options that don’t skimp on the style, and here are a few choices that will look fab without hurting your wallet.

If you’re tired of boring black tights but aren’t quite ready to make the plunge into something bright (see below) these tights from Forever 21 are perfect. They have subtle designs that add just the right amount of interest to your basic look. You can wear them with pumps, over-the-knee boots and everything in between.

These tights, from an awesome website dedicated to tights and only tights, are a total statement piece. Throw them on with your LBD and you’ve got yourself one hot (and easy) outfit!

It’s hard to stand out in the drab blacks and grays that come with this dreary season. But for less than $7, you can slip these babies on and instantly add a little heat to those cold, winter nights.

Unless you’re Britney at the Grammys (seriously, who is her stylist?!), fishnets look hot. And this pair of tights that only looks like fishnets gives you the hot and the classy all in one. It is possible!

If you need a little something to keep you warm, these cable-knit tights are perfect. They are thick and fuzzy (like a sweater for your legs) and opaque (so you don’t have to shave ‘em).

I just love these. L-O-V-E. The only thing I love more than these fun and funky tights is the website where I found ‘em. We Love Colors has a massive selection of tights in all different patterns, colors and styles.

I’ll be honest, I’m not sure how these would look on most people. I am sure, however, that anyone who can pull these off would look really, really awesome.

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!

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/2009/10/02/project-runway-rundown-i-hate-ruffles/ http://collegecandy.com/2009/10/02/project-runway-rundown-i-hate-ruffles/#comments Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:30:38 +0000 Lauren - University of Michigan http://collegecandy.com/?p=42530 ]]> After the judges decided to boot Ra’mon (the most talented designer on the show) last week, I really wanted to boycott Project Runway. There is so much other great TV on Thursday nights (Ace of Cakes, The Office, Community) that I didn’t feel the need to watch the same show that had turned its back on me the week before.

Also, I was invited out to the bar for some tasty drink specials. Clearly $1 beers would trump anything, even if Ra’Mon was still around.

So I went out for some drinks…and then came home to see what shenanigans the Project Runway designers would get involved in this week. And let me say – watching the show buzzed is truly the only way to go. I was wearing beer goggles and everything was just so much better!

The challenge was to design a look for I.N.C., a Macy’s brand. The designs had to be in blue and the designers had to work in teams.

As usual, the designers had to send their models to the Garnier hair studio and the L’Oreal Paris makeup room, and to use accessories from the Macy’s accessory wall which had been stocked with I.N.C. shoes.

I don’t know about you, but it seems like maybe these companies are paying to have their brands on the show. Could it be??

Anyways, the designers worked and sewed and bitched about their teammates. Epperson and Chris had a designer love affair in the back (which clearly blinded them to what the h-e-double hockey sticks they were doing), Nikolas whined about ruffles in the front, and Irena talked. A lot. Homegirl might be a good designer, but her voice is like nails on a mother effing chalkboard. She just needs to stop.

When it was time for the runway I wasn’t too excited to see the designs on display – I didn’t see anything really interesting in the work room and I was pretty sure this snoozefest would only give me the blues. (Ha! See what I did there?) But then I  saw Michael Kors back in his hot seat! I was wondering where my little nugget had been all these weeks and could have jumped up and kissed the TV (if there hadn’t been a bowl of steaming hot Easy Mac on my lap).

Seriously, how can you not love a man that comes up with this:

“It looks like a cheap bridesmaids dress with a loofah up the front.”

Clearly, he didn’t like the look. Clearly, no one in their right mind would like that look. (In my drunk mind, I still didn’t like that look.) Not so clear, though, is why the judges liked Irena’s look. The length was weird, the bottom looked like something someone would wear when they were knocked up and didn’t want to tell anyone, and it just didn’t look cute. But then again, no one really made anything cute. It was almost a “best of the worst” sort of situation:

“Should we go with Irena’s modern maternity dress or Carol Hannah’s cheap looking tunic?”

At least Irena’s dress didn’t look like someone picked it up at Wet Seal.

So, yeah, Irena won. I’m pretty sure that would have been Althea had hottie-boom-bottie Logan not made a skirt that showed off his model’s fallopian tubes. It’s OK, though, those two made it to next week anyway..and had some alone time behind the runway to get. it. on. in celebration.

What? That’s what I would do if I had 3 minutes alone with that guy. Rar.

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!

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.

I recently went to Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), a massive electronic music festival/rave, and saw some wicked cool costumes. While I didn’t go all out with leather and lace like some party-goers, I did enjoy stepping away from my usually more conservative outfits and wearing neon bright clothes. I liked it enough, in fact, that I figured I could try to work them into my daily summer wardrobe.

And why not? When paired with the right articles of clothing, bright pieces are a super easy way to add color and fun to your look.

The easiest way to incorporate color is with a bright pair of shorts. Sure, you have your reliable blue or black jean shorts that practically go with everything (so you can grab the nearest clean – or not – top), but colored shorts would make the outfit more vibrant and exciting. I picked up these shorts featuring destroyed cuffs from Wet Seal, and at $12.50, they won’t make you feel too guilty about dipping into your account for a “novelty” item. They come in a couple of other colors, and  if the cutoff look isn’t your thing, other styles are offered in even more colors.

I’ve been pairing these with a basic top (white or gray v-neck, anyone?), some key accessories and flip flops and my summer look has been instantly amped up. I’m even considering heading back to Wet Seal and getting every color they got.