Military Madness

With spring just around the corner, it's almost time to put away those wintry boots and take out the sunglasses and sandals! And on those beautiful spring days when you'd rather be anywhere but in class, it may be tempting to throw on a tank-top, shorts, and flip-flops just to get you through the day. But spring fashion can be both effortless, comfortable, and stylish! I've taken DKNY's military inspired look for spring 2011 (shown right) and converted it into campus-friendly fashion look for under $120---far less than the cost of only the DKNY dress retailed at $295.00.



1. Short-Sleeve Military Shirt Dress, $69.90, Express.com

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This military shirt-dress featured in the color "pearl" is very similar to DKNY's dress. Both dresses have bronze button details to add to the military look and are structured and cinched at the waist to flatter your figure!





2. SO Serina Wedge Sandals, $33.99, Kohls.com

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Even though the DKNY model (featured above) is wearing black, stiletto high heels, we all know this isn't a practical shoe option when you need to walk around campus all day. Instead, I've selected a black, low wedge sandal that is the perfect combination of style and comfort.



3. Paisley Print Scarf, $12.50, OldNavy.com

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To accessorize her look, the DKNY model sports a black, tan, and pink scarf. For more of a spring vibe, I've chosen a black and white "neutral combo" paisley print scarf from Old Navy. Light and airy combined with a floral pattern makes this scarf perfect for spring!




Total Outfit Cost: $116.39

Other Fashion Blogs

One of my favorite fashion blogs to read is Cafe Fashionista.

In particular, I really like how the cafe fashionista does not just tell readers what she is wearing every day (though she often does this, too!), but gives readers budget versions of expensive, fashion staples. I find this interesting and helpful, as we do not all have the budget to purchase expensive, name brand items, but should still be able to be fashionable and feel good!

Specifically, these deals are often highlighted in her "Thrifty Thursday" blog posts. In these posts, the cafe fashionista selects a specific, name-brand, and often expensive fashion item and provides readers with a picture and the details of a budget-friendly version of the selected item. In this past "Thrifty Thursday," the cafe fashionista features a Helmut Lang sweater for $345.00 and shows a budget-friendly MaxStudio version for $58.00.

I also really like how she features special giveaways for readers. For example, this week she is featuring a Rumba Time watch giveaway. Readers will receive one entry for commenting on her blog, two entries for commenting on the blog and twittering about the giveaway, and three entries for becoming a follow of and leaving a comment on the blog.

If you're a fashionista on a budget, I definitely recommend reading her blog!

Winter Runway Fashion on Campus

So we all know that "low on cash" describes most college kids. And with the cold winter weather still with us, it may be tempting to trudge to class in your UGG boots, sweatpants, and a Northface. But looking good, staying warm, and being comfortable for a low price doesn't have to be difficult. I've taken Dolce and Gabbana's winter look (shown right) and converted it to a warm and stylish campus look for under $100.


1. Planet Gold Short Sleeve Sweater Dress, Macys.com, $20.99

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This sweater dress is warm and plays on the cream color featured on Dolce and Gabbana's short sleeve sweater and sweater skirt combo. Though short sleeve, Macy's dress features a crew neckline for added warmth. Macy's dress is also the perfect length (mid-thigh) so that your legs don't get too cold walking to class on those chilly days.





2. Apt. 9 Opaque Microfiber Tights in Coal, Kohls.com, $4.99.

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Even though the Dolce and Gabbana model isn't wearing tights, walking around campus in the winter can be quite chilly depending on where you attend school. To keep your legs toasty warm while still looking cute, I've picked out these inexpensive tights from Kohl's. To incorporate the gray from the Dolce and Gabbana sweater, I've chosen a medium gray color called "coal" on the Kohl's website.



3. "Pieretti" Boots, Aldoshoes.com, $41.99

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Even though Dolce and Gabanna matches their boots with the cream color in the sweater and the skirt, I've chosen gray boots to match the gray tights. Though the boots have a little heel, the wedge is easy to walk in and perfect if you want a little flare while still being comfortable.



4. Starry Night Studded Beret, Charlotterusse.com, $9.50

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To complete your look (just like the Dolce and Gabanna model), try a cute beret. I've chosen a gray, studded beret from Charlotte Russe to match the gray tights and boots. This is a perfect way to keep warm while still looking cute!



Total Outfit Cost: $77.47