5 Summer Wardrobe Essentials on a College Budget
It’s been a lazy transition settling into summer, but now that the heat is reaching its peak, it’s time for you to up your fashion game. You have seen the summer trends from runways in Europe and New York, but as college kids, it’s not like you’ve got the bank to casually purchase those Christian Louboutin espadrilles or Mulberry snakeskin tote. Yet, it’s still easy to spice up the young adult uniform of shorts and tee-shirts. So here are 5 essential pieces to bring your summer wardrobe to the next level, without robbing you of that rent money.
Pastels
Pops of color are the easiest way to adopt that lighthearted summer vibe. While neon is currently trending, such vibrant colors can be hard to pull off, and likely to fade out of style once September hits. Pastels are still vivid and convey that sense of playfulness, but are much more flattering and versatile between seasons and silhouettes.
For the more adventurous fashionista, take pastels to the next level with this quirky top, which also incorporates current trends of asymmetrical hemlines, sheer materials, and color blocking. (Threadscene, $42)
If you’d rather stick to the basics, try this body-con dress with fun peplum detailing, in mint green – the hottest pastel of the season. (Lulus, $40)
Lace
Lace has been making quite the comeback recently – and understandably so. The fabric is being used on any and all clothes and accessories this season, from shorts to handbags. A quality lace piece in your wardrobe can make any outfit look effortlessly feminine and chic, while the semi-sheer material keeps you cool in the heat.
This simple tank can be paired with the denim shorts your already own or a black mini for a night out. You can even pair it with colored shorts, to incorporate this trend with pastels in one look. (Tobi, $22)
Lace can be sexy, too. This body con dress is the perfect go-to for a swanky summer party, with the ruby lace overlay and keyhole cutout in the back, adding enough sweet elements to keep this dress classy. (ModCloth, $50)
Floral Prints
Floral is quintessentially summer. Forget any memories of your grandmother’s curtains or that heinous legging and turtleneck combination your were forced into as a child. This season, floral prints are back and at the height of their design. They’ve been modernized to appeal to the young adult crowd, comprised of bright, fun colors or paired with harder edges, like metal detailing.
This is the ultimate sundress, combing a floral print with a hot pink check base. It’s simple and cute, but the buttons down the front and back cut-out keep the dress from being too cute. (Nasty Gal, $48)
These shorts are a harder take on the floral trend with their black base. If, short-shorts aren’t your favorite, you can adapt the printed denim trend to a pair of cropped skinny jeans instead, making for an easy transition into early fall, too. (Mikkat Market, $33)
Crop Tops
Crop tops are everywhere this season – it can be hard to find a top nowadays that actually covers your belly button. These tops are great statement pieces; just incorporating one into your outfit can immediately make you look fabulous and well-dressed. They embody the carefree spirit of summer, and are guaranteed to be the most prevalent look at outdoor concerts and music festivals this season. Don’t shy away from showing a little skin – pair a crop top with high-waisted shorts and skirts if you’re self-conscious.
If you want to go all out you have to try a bustier. This top is perfect with its navy floral print, which tones down the sex appeal and keeps you looking cute and not trashy – the biggest risk of this trend. (Mikkat Market, $28)
For those of you who are a little wary, this sheer blouse is the perfect gateway crop top. It adds some edge to your outfit, with the strapped back and high-low hemline, and is easy to throw on with anything. You won’t feel exposed, but can still take advantage of this raging trend. (Nasty Gal, $30)
Wedges
Wedge sandals are the summer shoe. They add class to any outfit, and can be an easy transition from wedding attire to a lazy Saturday hanging out with friends. The wedge is a timeless look, and almost exclusively flattering on everyone.
Yes, these are not the most college-budget friendly, but they are just so damn cute! Plus, more than any other item in this post, these shoes are the best purchase as an investment. A pair a neutral, cork platform wedges can be worn for multiple summers in the future. (Dolce Vita, $50)
Try this season’s update on the classic wedge by purchasing a pair of “flatforms” – flat platforms. They add some fun to the overtly feminine espadrille, and they’re more practical for wandering the city without making your feet cry. (Urban Outfitters, $30)
Featured Image From: Haute Living
Category: Fashion
