Tips to keep it 'fly' without breaking the bank

Let's face it.  As college students most of us have not achieved "throw it in the bag" status, and for financially fettered fashionistas achieving and retaining the look can be a daunting task when faced with a limited budget.  

Two Trends To Watch

Knee and Thigh High Boots: Sister to the always fashionable calve high boot and cousin to the chic ankle boot, these fashionably loud footwear have been making appearances on the runway and on the legs of our favorite celebrities for the past few months. They can be yours without spending an entire refund check.  They are extremely versatile and can be worn with leggings, jeans and dresses. Not only do they keep your legs warm during those cold winter months, they also add spice to your wardrobe.

 Military, Leather, Boyfriend Jackets 

These jackets have been on the scene since summer and have been donned in many different ways. The military jacket is meant to stun, best worn with killer jeans or leggings and heels to die for; while the leather jacket is typically worn with more everyday attire. The boyfriend jacket can be worn with anything from business casual attire, to a night on the town.

Oldies But Goodies

Skinny Jeans: Most of us have now discovered the wonders of a good pair of skinny jeans. This trend has been around for a while and is not going anywhere anytime soon. The great part is a pair can cost you as low as $20.

Tights: Not only do they keep you warm and come cheap, they can add a layer of pizzazz to a plain dress or tunic.

Cardigans: Adding a cardigan to a pair of jeans and a shirt or a relatively thin dress can help one achieve a very put together look. Also, you don't have to pack those summer shirts up yet.  Wearing a cardigan over a more summer themed shirt brings your summer pieces into the fall.

Accessorize Accessorize Accessorize 

This is possibly the most important tip. The difference between a great outfit and a mediocre one is accessories. The accessories are what makes an outfit standout and can sometimes be what makes the outfit. Invest in great staple accessories that can be worn with many outfits and just wait for the compliments.

Most Importantly of All…

Choosing the right colors: Invest in neutral colors when purchasing tops and bottoms. Save color for eye-catching accessories and unique pieces that will add flavor to your wardrobe.

Utilize the local thrift store. Thrift stores can offer unique vintage pieces at extremely low costs. 

As history and fashion always repeat, it is not uncommon to find trendy items at the thrift store. You can be sure that your find will have character without costing a fortune.  

Remain vigilant of personal style when following trends. If one is not careful following trends can lead to a lack of individual fashion identity. Infuse trends with staple pieces and remember if it does not suit you, don't wear it just because it's "in."