As summer winds die down and fall draws near, it is once again time to pack away the sandals, swimsuits, shorts, and tanks, for some new trendy and weather-appropriate wear. While mild climates approach, so do the latest styles, which include everything from PacSun Hurly Hats to the ever-so-popular furlined Ugg boots. Though most students brave the changing temperatures by wearing sweats to class, department stores, malls, and designers have come up with some new, as well as brought
back some old, trends to liven up even the darkest of closets. For the overwhelming number of females on this campus, the key words are comfortable with class. Plunging necklines have been replaced by the cute, but cover-all poncho. These draping tops are found in a variety of fabrics, and can be worn as a thick extra layer to class, or as a sheer
cover to a slinky tank at the bars. Crisp, buttondown Oxford shirts are
also making a comeback, which can be worn alone, under a jacket, or by layering. Likewise, fitted tweed and corduroy blazers are beginning to pop up and can also be worn in a variety of ways, to dress up or dress down an outfit.
As for the bottoms, women are being provided with an array of options, with the classier skirt making a comeback. Often found this summer in the fun and pleated variety, these skirts can now be paired with thicker stockings and boots for the changing weather. Knee-length skirts are also being seen, mostly in denim, which can easily be worn with any of the tops mentioned above. As for the jeans, the bootleg cut still reigns. Found in every color and style, with fringe, flair, beads, and embellishments, these pants have become a staple in the closets of the college generation.
Completing the look with a few essential accessories is a must according to the fashion industry. Starting with the feet, every short woman’s nightmare has come true: heels are out, and flats are in. From flip-flops, to embroidered slides and dainty ballet slippers, trends have tilted towards the direction of comfort.
Along with these are the enticing Ugg boots, which are appearing everywhere and matched with everything from mini-skirts to tight, tucked-in jeans. Another accessory that has found its time in the limelight are knock-off designer purses. Though some splurge for the pricey originals, those who can’t shell out the cash have found a trend through a variety of look-alikes. From Coach to Gucci, these bags (along with matching wallets, cell phone cases, etc…) are hard to miss.
Turning to the guys side of the racks, shoppers are bombarded with jeans, cargos, logo/slogan shirts, and designer labels. Hot tops include anything with a name, including Fcuk, Sean John, Von Dutch, and Ecko Unltd. For a dressier look, the Oxford shirt is also a strong commodity in fall trends for men. On the softer side, guys can also dress down this season with the classier style of comfort.
Rather then the basic and baggy hooded pullover, stylists recommend
the zip-up, hoodless sweatshirt, bringing back a retro-look.
Down below, the men of the college generation have also found a staple item with relaxed-fit jeans and the popular pocketed-cargo pants. From faded, washed-out and ripped, to dark, crisp and new, denim is found in
every style imaginable. Cargos are often found in khaki, green and gray, and can be worn with a slogan shirt for the casual look, or with an Oxford button-down to add a professional touch.
In terms of male accessories, we see the return of chunky watches and boots, from buckles to lace. Other trends include a change in cologne, as designers encourage out with the old (Polo Sport, CK, Ralph Lauren) and in with the new, such as Kenneth Cole’s Black, Givenchy by Givenchy and the similarly self-titled Marc Jacobs by Marc Jacobs.
To close the closet door with a satisfactory slam this fall, these recommended trends are must-haves. However, the most important fashion advice one could give is to be true to your own personal style. Whether your tastes agree with these fall trends or not, the absolutely best wardrobe is one that expresses the person as an individual. From ponchos to cologne, the fall 2004 fashion is classy, comfortable, and most importantly, it is you.