The sun is shining and it’s still surprisingly balmy for summer 2013, so the last thing on anyone’s mind is imminent Michaelmas term. It’s safe to say that this time of year in Lancaster is renowned for its biting winds and monsoon-style downpours. Not the best thing when you’re still dreaming of summer holidays and stubbornly wearing those strappy sandals to lectures.
The fashion houses showcased their top Autumn/Winter trends to stylish audiences in July. Although it may seem barmy to talk about slouchy jumpers, scarves and parkas when summer is in full swing, I’ve written this article to make sure you return to uni kitted out in the most stylish and weather appropriate gear. The top trends this season can be adapted to include pieces that you already own, hopefully saving a few pennies and meaning that your student loan can be spent in Sugarhouse rather than on a new winter wardrobe.
Pretty in Pink
Initially I was a little dubious about this trend; pink is one of those colours that’s reserved for hideous wedding outfits and other family-orientated occasions. However, no fear, when I say ‘Pink ‘think of every shade of lipstick at the beauty counter. From magenta to cherry to strawberry hues, pink packs a punch this season. Anything goes, so if you’re not so fond of brighter colours, pop on a pale pink necklace, toughen up with a bright pink cuff or carry a rosy over-sized bag. For more inspiration, check out the delights from the Givenchy and Prada catwalks. I’ll be wearing a berry coloured tube skirt but keep in my comfort zone by adding my leather jacket. Dust off any oxblood or burgundy-coloured pieces from last year as they fit well with the trend.
90’s Grunge
For many of us, the 90’s was epitomised by the plethora of Disney films and sugary sweet girl bands. Unfortunately, it’s pretty hard to recognise all the decade had to offer when you were under the age of ten. Style-wise, the 90’s look should suit the humble student, biker and boots, leather skirts and band t-shirts seem to be our current uniform. This year there’s a twist; team these pieces with check, tartan and tweed. It’s all about mixing textures and keeping the look casual. I’ve bought a checked kilt-style skirt which I’ll be teaming with an over-sized knit; perfect for uni on a cold day. Keep cut out boots on your feet as they continue to be the shoe of choice, re-use those rucksacks – they’ll be stuck on the fashion radar for long time yet and dig out those leather look leggings, add a jumper and you’ve nailed this trend.
Animal Print
When is animal print ever dismissed by the fashion elite? Unfortunately I love a little bit of leopard, which on occasion leaves me looking like a landlady from the Rovers Return. Good news is that once you’ve bought animal print accessories you’ll get your wear out of them, leopard, dalmatian and snake print pieces are here to stay. Just try not to wear them all at the same time, like me. I’ll be re-wearing my dalamatian print trousers with a white shirt and jumper, maybe a little ambitious for Lancaster, but I’ll take the risk. If you want to try this trend without looking like Cruella de Vil, hats and scarves are a safe place to start.
Boy Meets Girl
This trend has been big for a couple of seasons now, but really comes into its own for Autumn/Winter ’13. Gone are the days when you shuddered at the boyish school shoes mum picked out for the new term, say hello to brogues and Chelsea boots. This season also sees many brands embrace what I like to call the ‘lumberjack look.’ No, I’m not talking ‘Monty Python’, but more brown suede calf-high creations, teamed with over-sized check shirts and boyfriend jeans. For more of a dapper gent feel, patent shoes, ankle grazer trousers and briefcase style bags were hot on the catwalks. For a more high street look, avoid the bow ties and stick to classic loafers, both with and without a chunky heel. Worn by the fashionable Bond Street gentleman, these shoes will keep feet cosy and fabulously stylish – no blisters in sight! So re-wear your brogues, boots and over-sized blazers without fear of being left behind by the stylish.
