By Jennifer Davis

Week one of classes is over and I am pleased to say I survived. It’s weird to get back into the swing of things, especially with these extreme heat temperatures that are more reminiscent of summer than fall. I walk out my door and perspiration is instantaneous. The heat compounded with an almost-mile walk to my classes makes looking cute a challenge; however, there are ways to beat the heat and the back to school blues, while still looking good.

I have seen some of the most atrocious outfits walking to and from classes. I would have to say some of the clothes have been more awful than usual. I was truly baffled when I saw a girl in a sweater and wedges walking to class. For one, it is 95 degrees outside, and two, wedges to class is just odd. Heels in college should be saved for going out and going on interviews. Fall is just around the corner, but it is not here quite yet. If you are wearing jeans, you must be crazy. Things that should not be worn quite yet: pants, boots, sweaters and long-sleeved shirts. As much as you or I want it to be fall, it just really is not. So please keep those things packed away until it is appropriate.

Things that people should just know not to wear to class (and all things I have witnessed this week), too tight clothing, heels (sorry, I must say it again), inappropriate combinations like a jersey and a jean skirt. You do not have to be wearing a sundress and sandals to class to look cute, but the key is to look appropriate. You are going to class, so be comfortable, but know that even if your super cute pair of wedges is the most comfortable pair of shoes ever, they just really are not class appropriate.

Pray for fall, pray for jeans, but until then, do the best you can under these hot, humid conditions.

Photos courtesy of oxfam.com

By Jennifer Davis

I can feel it in the air, fall is approaching, which means the new school year is upon us. Back to school shopping has always been a favorite yearly ritual of mine. It is always fun to buy new clothes, but sometimes it is hard to know what to buy. Shopping for clothes for college is always hard, especially if it is your first year, but even as I am about to start my junior year in college, I still struggle with finding the perfect clothes for class and going out. Regardless of the trends, there are certain pieces that are essential to any college girl’s wardrobe. Here are ten back to school basics to get you shopping in the right direction.

1.    Jeans: Every girl needs a great pair. Whether you are going to class or going out on the town, a solid pair of jeans will take you far. Jeggings are still all the rage, and these would be great for class because they are comfortable yet they are a step up from leggings and will make you look more put together.
2.    Boots: I am sorry to say that Ugg boots have had their day. This fall buy instead a flat leather riding boot for class, like a pair of Frye boots. They are just as comfortable, and more unique.
3.    Comfortable Shoes: There is a lot of walking in college. From class to class, and beyond, your feet are you major mode of transportation. Instead of uncomfortable sandals, wear cute sneakers like TOMS or Keds. They come in such a variety of colors and patterns you cannot go wrong.
4.    Messenger Bag: A collegiate classic I would have to say. Retire your old North Face backpack and get a bag for class that is cute and durable.
5.    Oversize Sweaters: When fall finally hits, having a few classic oversize sweaters will beat the chill. Check out LLBean.com for reasonably priced sweaters under knitwear.
6.    Hanes V-neck Tees: Simple, easy and always chic (plus cheap), they are perfect to throwing on with jeggings and any shoe. You will look good without trying at all.
7.    A Go to Heel: A versatile heel you can where with most things, like a wedged heel in a neutral color, or a classic pump always is in style. Regardless of what you choose, make sure you are comfortable wearing them all night.
8.    Sunglasses: There are days when you wish the sun was just not shining, but alas, it will be. Cover up your tired eyes with shades and you’ll feel instantly better.
9.   LBD (Little Black Dress): Every girl needs one, and if you do not have on yet you should get one. Even when you cannot find anything in your closet, having a dress that always makes you feel good is a must.

10.    Jacket: This fall season it is all about the military trend and leather jackets. Both extremely cute and versatile take your pick.

Remember, it is all about what works for you. It is a new year, so feel free to be whoever you want.

Photo courtesy of teenvogue.com

By Jennifer Davis

It may not be September yet, but according to newsstands, it may as well be. The biggest fashion issues of the year have hit stores and I feel like a giddy little girl on Christmas day. Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE, and my surprising absolute favorite issue of the month, Marie Claire, are all available, and I could not be happier. After what seems like the hottest summer of all time, the pages of the fashion magazines mark what, to me, is the beginning of fall fashion. Now, I may not be wearing a camel coat or donning my riding boots anytime soon, but fall is approaching and I am getting ready.

This season, there is a return to minimalism, almost in contrast to the springs ode to the ‘80’s with jarring neon colors abounding, this fall there is a much more subdued color palette. Olive green, camel and khaki, it is about understated colors and simplicity. To add a pop of color or dimension, choose animal prints and red hues. Layering and menswear still apply, so feel free to raid your boyfriend or brothers closet or wander your way to the men’s section. Fur, fur, fur: it’s everywhere and on everything from shoes to belts.

So, what does it all mean for fashion savvy college students? It means a back-to-basics with a twist. Clean lines blurred with retro twists, like cat eye sunglasses and flared jeans, chambray shirts that are reminiscent of the ‘90s, kitten heels and full ankle hitting skirts that are evocative of Jackie O. There is so much to love this fall. I’m ready to dive, not tip to, into fall. If you are feeling apprehensive about what to buy this fall, pick up a magazine. As I said before, I think that Marie Claire’s September issue realys stands out, and create your own fall fashion future.

Photos courtesy of fashionindie.com and fashionfame.com