Fashion week has come and gone, leaving us to pine over the season’s newest trends. While your shopping cart at asos may be full of the hottest runway-to-street looks, we all know it’s nothing more than a pipe dream for a college girl and her “can I afford Chipotle this week?” budget. But have no fear, Valley‘s here and we share your pain. We’ve compiled a list of the best (and cheapest) ways to update your fall/winter wardrobe, so indulge yourself with these must-haves to turn E College into your catwalk.
1. Fun Tights
Valley‘s favorite way to spice up an oversized sweater or pleated skirt is with a pair of cute, patterned tights! Not only is it practical to cover your bare legs through these chilly months, but they give any look that special something extra.
The simplest way to experiment with this trend is to invest in a pair of black, sheer polka dot tights. They’ll match anything and instantly up the cute factor by a few hundred percent. Once you’re as obsessed with this trend as we are, grab a more daring pattern like zig zags, floral, or fishnets — and don’t be afraid to try them out in different colors! A navy floral tight looks bomb with a big green sweater or some purple-maroon, patterned tights look darling with a cream dress!
2. Scarves
This is a no-brainer, but we had to list nonetheless. We’ve all rocked the infinity scarf, and while this trend isn’t going anywhere, Valley suggests investing in a blanket scarf this year.
Sarah Niezgoda, junior Advertising and IDS double major and Sales Associate at Urban Outfitters, insists blanket scarves are the smartest purchase for this coming season. “They are no doubt the best way to accessorize any outfit throughout fall and winter,” Niezgoda says, “they look great doubled as a blanket or shaw too!” Hello, multipurpose. Valley approves, blanket scarves are certainly the most fashionable way to stay warm all winter!
3. Socks
Are you fan-girling over the over-the-knee boot trend as much as we are? Don’t know what happened to those hundred dollar bills you dreamt were in your wallet last night? No problem, get the illusion of this spotlight trend by investing in a few pairs of over-the-knee socks!
We’re willing to bet you have a pair of riding boots in your closet, whether they’re leather or suede, black or cognac, or fall at or below your knee, socks are the most efficient way to upcycle your boots into this season. Try two trends in one by pairing thigh-high socks, patterned tights, and your much-loved boots — you’ll have heads turning.
4. Jewelry
Your jewelry box should get love year round, but this season be sure to pay it a little extra attention. Stack on the necklaces, pile on the rings, line up your bracelets, it’s time to layer layer layer. Layering is not just a fall trend for sweaters, mix your statement necklaces and chokers with long layering pieces and y-chains for a chic, I’m-wearing-every-piece-of-jewelry-I-own-and-it’s-fabulous look.
Dress up any and all of these on-season trends with your own personal flair, and be sure to give @valleymag a shout out with any of your fierce fashionista pics!
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