DESIGNER DIGS FOR A COLLEGE BUDGET

Us college girls are always trying to be on top of our fashion game but it always comes at a price. We want the latest and greatest... with some left over cash to hit the bars after the shopping spree in our new digs. Stores both online and down the street have made desginer brands easily attainable for those of us on a budget. Check out some of my favorites!

Target: Surprise! Target does carry designer labels. Target collaborates with popular and upcoming deisgners for seasonal collections. Their most recent collab is with the dynamic duo Peter Pilotto. Pieces range from $16.99-$79.99.

6pm: 6pm is another online store with fabulous markdowns on your favorite brands. There is no annoying subscription and there's a new special every week! Check out Fossil, Frye, Cole Haan and French Connection. 6pm offers free shipping and returns as well!

Plato's Closet: Sift your way through the loaded racks of Plato's Closet to find the hottest brands. They carry a variety of clothing, shoes and accessories of a wide range of prices and styles. I found my favorite Jeffrey Campbell shoes here for only $17! A little digging and searching is worth it for the amazing deals you can find here. Most of the clothes are gently used. however there are quite a few items with tags still attached!

Nordstrom Rack: Ever wonder where your favorite pieces from Nordstrom go when it's out of season? They go to the Rack! Nordstrom's Rack is Nordstrom's little sister that house the mark downs and season's past of Nordstrom. Find everything you love and buy from Nordstrom including jewelry, accesories, clothing, shoes, perfume, makeups all discounted. The Rack carries the same brands as Nordstrom like Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, French Connection and Dior, That Michael Kors satchel you've been eyeing? It's now 50% off at Nordstrom's Rack!

ASOS: Online fashion giant, ASOS, offers British and upcoming American designers at a range of prices. They carry brand favorites like Free People, Mink Pink and Vivienne Westwood. They're quality is undeniable and they literally sell any clothing item imaginable! Check out the sale items- up to 70% off designer and ASOS labels, everyday! And shipping and returns are free!

TJ Maxx: Become a "maxxinista" by shopping at TJ Maxx for your favorite designer labels. However, they specialize in handbags and accessories when it comes to designer labels. They carry Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and Steve Madden at discounted prices! The perfect place to look like a diva without breaking the bank.

NYFW FROM YOUR SCREEN

You don't have to be a New York native or a celeb to check out the glitz and glam of NYC Fashion Week. This past week, I took pride and joy on consistently creeping my way through the week on my favorite designer's and blogger's Instagrams. Check out my favorite moments as seen through the eyes of the designers!

Lela Rose's entire collection features shades of ivory
and white with delicate silver and gold decals.
You'll be swooning... and planning your wedding.

The fierce and feisty collab of Mark and Estel
brought NYFW a trendy and wearable ensemble.



The gorgeous gowns of Zac Posen.

Black and Sparkle glam from Jill Stuart!



My favorite set: Diane von Furstenberg

MY PICKS FROM PETER PILOTTO FOR TARGET

Peter Pilotto takes the term "mix and match" to a whole new level with his new line for Target. This fun and funky collection makes dressing for spring break a trendy breeze. The patterns are bright, the colors, eclectic and the collection? Perfect. Do some spring cleaning and make room for these closet must haves! The collection includes blouses, tanks, shorts, skirts, pants, (stop for breathe), sunnies, towels, swim wear, beach shoes and totes! Check out my favorites and find your when the line hits Target stores tomorrow!

THE DRESS CUT FOR EVERY BEAUTIFUL BOD

The Pear: This figure comes with a small waist and a little junk in the trunk. Choose a dress that will flatter your figure by finding the perfect cinched waist. This will emphasize your small waist and add a little flare to show off your bootilicious curves. If your feeling feisty, channel Christina Aguilera for a tighter look to rock your perfect curves!


Petite: Find the perfect dress for the smaller woman by not loading on the fabric. Keep it minimal to show off your petite figure with a bodycon dress. Just remember this tip: your dress should be long enough to cover the goods but short enough to keep it interesting! Eva Longoria is the perfect example of a well-dressed, petite woman!

Short Torso: Shout out to girls like me! Not to be mistaken with the petite figure, the short torso often has long legs; perfect for a line- dresses that create elongating lines to make your mid-section appear longer. Check out my look from my December formal!

Hourglass: Nothing is sexier than a pin- up figure. Work those curves with a flared skirt and corset bodice that shrinks your waist and emphasizes your beautiful curves. We all know Kim Kardashian is the queen of rocking her curves and dressing them properly. Work it, honey!

Busty: Maintain the girls with a thick-strapped dress. The straps will keep you comfortable while adding extra support for the perfect look and feel. Choose the bodice you like best whether it be flared or a line! Channel diva, Jennifer Hudson for inspiration!

Shorts Legs: Make your legs appear longer with the magic of maxis! Maxi dresses and skirts create the same illusion as the a-line for petite women by creating straight lines, elongating your legs.  Pair with heels or wedges for that extra boost! Vanessa Hudgens is a frequent wearer of maxi dresses to create this illusion!

The Apple: If you carry most of your weight in your mid-section, choose loose fitting dresses that wont cling and stick to your body. Dress it up and make it flirty with fun patterns and cuts! This look is perfect and breezy for summer or pair with tights to keep warm in the winter. The ever-funny Rebel Wilson perfected this look and cut and looks beautiful while doing so!

Small Chested: Volumize your chest by choosing dresses with fun and flirty ruffles. The ruffles along with other accents will create a feminine look and emphasize the chest area! Natalie Portman is the perfect model for this look!

*All pictures were used with permission from Creative Commons.

A SIT DOWN WITH STYLE BLOGGER, KAITLIN OBERMEYER

Meet HerCampusKU’s newest Style Blogger, Kaitlin Obermeyer! Kaitlin attends KU from her hometown of St. Louis to major in Photography and Strategic Communications. I asked her some questions about life, fashion and photography:

Ashley : What do you consider your closet must-have?
Kaitlin: Heeled booties, I’m somewhat of a shoe addict.
Ashley: Purse must-have?
Kaitlin: I love my little boxed satchel from Francescas. It is the perfect carry-all item.
Ashley: What is the one item you can’t live without?
Kaitlin: Liquid eyeliner.
Ashley:  In a crunch or just for casual shopping, what is your go-to store?
Kaitlin: Anything on (KU’s) Massachusetts Street: White House Black Market, Urban Outfitters, and Francescas.
Ashley:  Do you have a favorite brand?
Kaitlin: Similar to my favorite stores; White House Black Market and Urban Outfitters.
Ashley: What is your go-to date outfit? I want every detail!
Kaitlin: Jeans and booties. I like to keep it casual and fun so it’s a little flirty but not intimidating.

When asking Kaitlin more about her fashionable past and present, she explains her mom is her fashion inspiration. She states, “I think my mom is more fashionable than me sometimes.” Kaitlin is often seen her mother’s fun and funky clothes from the ‘80’s, looking cool and stylish. However, Kaitlin’s style is versatile and often rocks the rocker-chic look in denim and motorcycle boots. Since she is a photography major she focuses on snapping pictures more than standing in front of the camera. Her favorite photographer is fashion guru, Nigel Barker, most popular for his spot on America’s Next Top Model.

Ashley: So, can you sum up your style in a few words?
Kaitlin: Each day is different.

Pictured: Kaitlin rocks White House Black Market jeans, and Express top and her go-to Nine West booties.

Where to find her: Kaitlin will be contributing weekly to Her Campus KU’s Style Blog. You can also find her in her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, as the Purchasing Coordinator and a part of the Photo Media Student Advisory Board. Kaitlin is also the photographer for KU’s STAC and a worship and social team member of Christian Crusade.

Check out her work here: http://www.behance.net/Obermeyer

WORK TO PLAY: CLOSET STAPLES

I figured out quickly college will never be an equal balance of work and play. To me, it feels like 1 hour of play for every 10 hours of work. That is something no one will tell you when you move your entire closet into your 3x4 dorm closet. Leave those trendy, one season clothes behind and stick to the basic with a few statement pieces. Whether you're still making it through the best four years of your life or the real world has come your way, fashion doesn't have to stray away when you're working a 8-5 day. Check out these simple transitions from work to play with common closet staples.

The Oxford

Oxford: American Eagle.
Skirt: Cotton On.
Necklace: Premier Designs
Nude Heels: Target. Vest: Banana Republic.
Weave Heels: Jeffrey Campbell. Jeans: ASOS

The oxford is a common closet blouse and a must have for fashion savvy busy bees. Considering the oxford is so versatile, it is easy to take it from work to play in a quick change. Start with a statement necklace you can envision in both environments, this dresses up a plain oxford. I love lacey skirts, any business, casual skirt in general will work with an oxford, I chose a coral color for contrast and finished off the look with nude heels.
Take it to the streets: High waisted is in again, cue the '90's. I love my black, high waisted pants from ASOS.com! Jeffrey Campbell is my number one shoe designer; check out these weaved ones that are my prized possession accompanied by another winter trend: fur. This fur vest was presented to me on Christmas and comes from Banana Republic.

 LBD

Dress: Forever 21. Kimono: Free People. Flats: Target.
Necklace: Charming Charlie.

Dress: Forever 21. Vest: BP. Shoes: Target.
Necklace: Charming Charlie.

Okay, so this may be an easy one but the little black dress is a must for simple, classic style that is extremely versatile. The key to remember is material. Usually I think of denim or leather for going out which is why I chose these two looks for the transitions. I am blessed with a business casual dress code that enables me to look professional while still maintain my style, hence the kimono. It covers the shoulders while still showing off the classic LBD. With a simple necklace and shoes it is perfect for a day on the job. Switch to the nightlife: I love my denim vest and have paired it with my LBD numerous times. I chose a statement necklace and heels to give a little pop of color and shine to a classic girl's night out ensemble.

Nude Flats



Necklace: Charmin Charlie. Top: ASOS.
Skirt: ASOS. Shoes: Target.

Necklace: Charmin Charlie. Top: BP.
Pants: Gap. Shoes: Target.

Nude flats are another easy transition item. Start the day with a simple, button up top and slacks. A statement necklace is a fun way to add a little personal sparkle to often drab work attire. Switch to your sassy side when the clock strikes 10 with a crop and bandage skirt. Be fierce with a statement necklace but keep it safe and comfy with your trusty pair of flats!



CLOSET MUST HAVE'S FOR 20-SOMETHINGS

College, and in general your 20's, are a time for discovering your beliefs, creating a name for yourself and looking at a closet similar to your mother's in her 20's. I've run into this phenomenon so many times. The clothes I pick up after shopping and show to my mother usually get the response "I used to have something like that!" It's interesting to understand the trends that have come and gone. My style has been compared to that of Stevie Nicks' once or twice and it is evident some of the pieces of the 70's have made a comeback.

From this idea, I've compiled a list of timeless must-haves for every girl in their 20's. Most dawned the closet of a young Bev Hight and have since found their way into mine! Check out some item's from my closet and where to find them!

Chinese Laundry Nude Heels, $70 ASOS.com

All Nude Everything
Nude flats and heels are my favorite foot wear, believe it or not I have narrowed down my favorites from my collection. Dress up a pair of heels with a white dress or earthy, low key feel. The perfect pair of nude flats can be paired with casual jeans for lunch with the girls. Find these Chinese laundry heels along with other styles and flats on ASOS.com!




Kate Spade Gayla Sunglass, Nordstrom

Versatile Sunnies
Ah, my Kate Spade sunnies. My favorite accessory of all time: sunglasses. The key is to find the perfect pair for versatility, which is why I splurged a bit on these over the summer. Fun colored and patterned frames make a statement and are a blast to wear in the summer, however save that cash and treat yourself to some peepers for all outfits, year round.




Mila Box Pleat Skater Skirt, $26 BooHoo.com

Skater Skirts

No matter the body type, skater skirts are flattering on every shape and size. As my go to for a casually comfortable ensemble, skater skirts come in all patterns and material to complete the perfect sunny day or date night outfit. This particular one I purchased for a business causal event. My favorite skirt, as mentioned in Surfin' Style, dawns a daisy print and 100% for a breezy, comfortable look.

Mink Pink Excessive Leggings, $43 Amazon.com

Patterned/ Colored Pants

Yes. Yes. Yes. I love a quality and stylish pair of colored pants. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Check out these Mink Pink leggings: my new obsession. Both a conversation starter and an outlet for comfort and style on a night out! The key: basics. Pair with a black sweater or a cute pair of basic boots or flats to add a little pop of color to the often drab winter style. Find these leggings on ASOS or Amazon!

Michael Kors Fulton Crossbody in Brown, Nordstrom

Versatile Crossbody

Much like the sunnies, I have a strong belief a go-to bag is a must. My favorite styles is the crossbody. I have a habit of collecting things and with an oversized purse, that thing would be filled up within 2 days of purchase. Crossbodies are the perfect size for holding everything one needs, low maintenance carrying and able to go from night to day without the annoying transition of purses. My favorite Michael Kors crossbody is with me wherever I go as the perfect little bag. It is perfect for every outfit and ensemble and travels with me from work, to class, to dinner with all my necessities.

KIMONO

Tribal Print Contrast Kimono, $25, Newlook.com

All hail the greatest thing the fashion gods have given us: the kimono. No wonder I channel Stevie Nicks. Embrace your inner gypsy with the accessory for all seasons. Some of my favorite ensembles of both fall and summer dawn a patterned kimono to dress up basic wear. Don't consider it festival wear but rather a way to bring the low key, easy going feel of the fields to you. Kimonos look perfect pair with basic shorts and tanks as a statement piece. In the winter, pair it with a black or simply pattern maxi dress or skirt for a warm, layered look. Look on multiple ways to wear it on my Saturday blog!

Glamorous Side Split Maxi, $40 ASOS.com

Maxi Skirt

My go-to for any casual night out is a maxi skirt. This Glamorous brand maxi, featured in my previous post, is the perfect stand out skirt for any date night or GNO. Wear it to a concert for a low maintenance, but cute way to stand out but be ready for the crowd. My favorite compliment to the skirt is a cute crop or tank that lets the skirt speak for itself. Refer to another closet necessity, the kimono, to create the perfect boho look for chicness! Check out this maxi and ASOS!

Premier Design Jewelry, Premierdesign.com

Trusty Statement Necklace

I am extremely selective on the jewelry I wear and own. I've never been a huge fan of earrings and bracelets however necklaces never fail to complete a look. The most important necklace is one perfect for nearly every outfit. My choice of shade is silver. I love this piece from Premiere jewelry to top off any look I feel needs a little something-something! 




Send me photos of how you dress my picks up or your favorite style pieces to aashleyhightt@yahoo.com and you could be in my next blog! Check out my favorite versatile pieces on Saturday!