So, you've decided that you desperately want to be a fashionista this fall.
The question is: How do you actually become one? Are you wondering what's in for this back to school season? Not sure what to buy for fall? Well, fear no more. Be prepared to be the envy of all your peers. Read on to learn the staple pieces that you can't go wrong with as you head into the fall season.
The tips
Article Photos
Mora Lucero of Warren JFK prepares for the first day of school this week. Photo by Allie Vugrincic
Colored jeans are a must this season. You can play it safe with darker colors, such as burgundy or royal blue, or you can be the overachiever and jump straight to coral and lime green. Either way, this is one item that you won't want to miss out on.
Here's an item that never seems to go out of style: the black leather jacket. You can keep it edgy with jeans and biker boots, or mix it up and add it to your favorite floral dress.
A great pair of boots is something that everyone needs for the fall and winter seasons. Skip the Uggs, and pick a great pair of fur-lined boots that are comfortable, work well in the wet weather, and still look cute. Choose these in a dark brown color, preferably, so they'll match practically everything. This is one item that must be on your shopping list.
Two prints that are making a lot of noise this fall are tribal and leopard. Now, if you're going for tribal, choose mainly skirts, pants, and dresses, and pair them with a basic top or neutral jewelry. Where as, leopard print is better off as a statement in a plain outfit. You can choose a great pair of leopard shoes or a scarf to throw on with a basic tee and leggings. These two prints are definitely not to be overdone, but either one works well on a dress, and in small doses.
Don't be afraid to accessorize! Throw on a scarf, and big hoop earrings, or pair a bunch of mismatched bangles with your favorite dress, or even go with a plain white tee and pile on the long necklaces. Any way you choose to accessorize, just remember that when it comes to extras, the rule is: the more, the merrier.
One special accessory to definitely take advantage of this fall is the brooch. Bejeweled brooches are especially popular this fall. They're a great way to spice up an outfit with a little bling. Put one on the shoulder of a simple dress, or even add one to your new backpack. And here's an extra tip: If it's vintage, it's particularly appreciated . . . because it's unique.
Use these tips to shape your fashion choices this fall, but don't let them run your wardrobe. These are guidelines, but if you would rather wear skirts than jeans, then the colored jeans look is probably not for you. Or if you have a sweeter, softer style, you might prefer to keep it that way, instead of going with the edgy leather jacket. Also, don't be afraid to change. If you're going from junior high to high school, you might want to update your look, create a whole new image for yourself, or you're just plain bored with what's in your closet. Whatever your position is, make smart fashion choices, and pick pieces that will last longer than your taste in boys.
And don't forget, you can never go wrong with basics. Dark wash jeans, pastel colored tees, and simple black flats can all be worn with any amount of accessories on a day when you just don't feel like putting an outfit together.
Whether you go with one of the statement pieces listed above, or one of these basics, always make sure that you feel comfortable and confident in what you wear. After all, why wear it if you don't feel good in it. Keep that in mind as you head back to school, and good luck on the 2012-2013 school year.