Broke College Style
From one poor fashionista to another.
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Summer’s here, and that means some of us are hitting the beach! But this isn’t high school anymore. If you think you can run around and arrive at the beach in just your bikini, you’re wrong. (And I promise you if you’re reading this blog, you’re better than that.) There are tons of options to prance around the beach in - or take off as soon as you get there!
To me, this is the best way to get to the beach. Bag in hand, see-through top on, and short little shorts that don’t cover much more than your swimsuit actually does.
You can never go wrong with something see-through, that’s lesson #1. The idea isn’t to cover you up entirely, it’s to make it a little more appropriate.
Ah, Miranda. No doubt this is a Victoria’s Secret number, a colorful little kimono. This one will actually protect you (or just your arms and shoulders) from the sun if you haven’t applied SPF yet.
Here’s proof you can actually go for one of those sweaters you put away for the winter. Hopefully it’s not TOO hot!
Or, you can go for a chic chiffon robe-like thing. I don’t know what this is supposed to be or where to get it, but I think it’s so glam.
Last but certainly not least! You can’t go wrong in an allover lace maxi. -
Those of you who have been reading the blog for a while know that I am NOT a fan of Marchesa. I think it’s so rare that one of their dresses doesn’t look like an overdone ice skating costume. However, Georgina Chapman’s line for JC Penney is actually not bad. My favorites? The scallop lace shorts and black long-sleeve lace dress. Go check out the entire line for yourself here! -
Lauren Conrad in a $770 Shoshanna black leather dress.
BeBop Juniors Sleeveless Faux Leather A Line dress from Macy’s, $28.
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No matter what your job, where you go to school, or your general style, there are some things everyone needs to have. When you’re a 20-something especially, it’s easy to have so many different environments that you can go from yoga pants to cocktail dress in 60 seconds. Since it’s the start of a new year, check your closet and see if you have each of these. And it’s not just owning them, either. Do you have one of these that you absolutely love? If not, make a list so you can find fabulous ones in the new year!
1. Perfect Skinnies
Skinny jeans are first on the list because they go with everything. Throw them on with a tee shirt to run errands, or dress them up with some heels and a nice shirt. You should have a pair that you absolutely adore. Make sure they fit well and are comfy!
2. Basic Oxford
You ned a plain white one that hopefully fits a little better than this girl’s. Versatility is huge with these: wear them to an interview, to class, even just to hang out. These are definitely an investment piece, so don’t be afraid to buy one from somewhere other than Forever 21 at a higher price.
3. Leather Boots
No matter what your style, you need a pair. These will go with skirts, skinny jeans, dresses and even yoga pants. You can choose from heels, wedges or flat ones - or be like me and have one of each. You could even go for booties!
4. A Peplum Top
Since they’re so trendy right now, a peplum shirt will show that you pay attention. But don’t let it overwhelm you - there are plenty of simple ones if you’re worried about looking too showy.
5. Perfect Club Dress
Everybody needs a go-to for when it’s warm enough to go out to parties or the bar (or both) with your friends. It should show off your body without looking skanky, and long enough to endure some dancing without having to pull it down constantly!
6. Pencil Skirt
These are essential to your wardrobe, even if you don’t have this girl’s legs. (But now I totally do.) Here’s the deal though too: I’m not talking about one of those skimpy stretchy miniskirts that you can leave at your hips so they almost reach your knees or pull up to your waist so it hits you mid-thigh. You need one with a ZIPPER. That’s the kind I’m talking about here. Trust me, you’ll come up with so many ways to wear it.
7. A Versatile Clutch
You need something small that you can grab and go when you need a few things with you but the atmosphere isn’t right for a big bag. This includes: A party, the bar, or basically any tight space. This black one could be a little edgy for the workplace, but you may need it!
8. Great Blazer
The key here is FIT! You’re gonna dress this up with one of those oxfords (and maybe a tie - anyone?) and dress it down with a TEE SHIRT (can you believe you can do that?! Thanks, Liz Lemon!) So be ready! Make sure this is conservative enough that you can wear it to an interview.
9. Black Pumps
Mark my words: you will throw these on more than you could ever imagine. The key here is comfort! As with all heels, do NOT buy them if they’re difficult to walk in. The only thing worse than someone who isn’t appropriately dressed is the person who’s appropriately dressed but is hobbling in their shoes.
10. Your Favorite Thing
What do you love most? Is it your Hanes mens crewneck sweatshirt you bought for $5 at Target? Is it your Alexander McQueen skull scarf? Whatever it is, keep it front and center in your closet and wear it often! -
Jason Wu Mesh-Yoke Sheath Dress, $1,295.
I know this one isn’t an uncanny match (and to clarify, no dupes or knockoffs are) but I think the budget dress has the same aesthetic.
Cut for the Chase Black and Pink Dress from Lulu’s, $36.
