Summer is Here

Can you believe that we have arrived at the end of another flawlessly fabulous semester? Well...it was flawlessly fabulous for me... but not for most. I was bamboozled, as I was under the impression that fashion-wise, BSU would be shutting it down this semester. In the first issue, I recall stating that I believed this semester would be the most fashionable to date. I suppose I was misled by the first week of fits. However, I never lost faith and every now and again something would catch my eye...just not enough to write about. Oh well. Better luck in the fall right? Summer is finally here and I hope that you have been getting your summer gear together. There are definitely some must haves for the season.

Summer trends include sheer fabrics (Ferragamo), fringed clothing (Alexander McQueen and Jill Sander), one shouldered tops and dresses, tribal inspirations (Christopher Kane), butterflies, midriffs, destroyed denim and the "boyfriend jean," as reported by fashionising.com. Sheer fabrics should be worn with slips or camisoles, so not to expose too much skin ... unless that is the objective. Sheer gear makes any ensemble sexy, yet demure.

Fringe resurfaced in 2008, mostly on accessories (like the $1600 Christian Louboutin "Forever Tina" fringe knee boots I am still obsessing over), but 2009 has brought the back the 1920s flapper. Fringe tops and dresses are flirty and fun to wear. Fringe is the standout piece; so do not overwhelm the fit. Try a fringed tank paired with shorts or denim, coupled with jeweled sandals or platforms. Simple jewelry and accessories will suffice. Keep the hair and make up simple too!

The one shoulder has returned from 2003. That is the last time I recall wearing anything of the sort. I am not sure about the return of this trend, but if it appeases you, do wear. Tribal chic continues to be a front running trend. Designers have truly taken to incorporating aesthetics from the Motherland into collections and I love it because you know I rep Ghana all day! Try African inspired jewelry, printed dresses, tops, or handbags. Kaftans are uber chic, a no brainer to wear, and come in a host of colors. I am dying for a royal blue Kaftan. Head wraps with matching skirts are being sold at stores like H&M and Urban Outfitters. On the other hand, nothing compares to authentic African clothes.

I do not like butterflies. I will leave that to Mariah! That is all I have to say about that trend! If you have a flat (or semi-flat), stomach you are candidate for the midriff. Back from the early 90's, celebrities, models, and those daring enough, are rocking the midriff with cutoff shorts, skinny jeans, and platforms. I love the return of the grunge/ "Blossom" look. As always, all things are not for all people, so please use discretion. If you have to think about it, then the midriff is not for you!

Dress fanatic I am, but overly destroyed jeans are so hot! Pair them with anything and its sexy, not, raunchy. I would wear an oversized white tank, destroyed denim, yellow or royal blue platforms; load up with jewelry, topped off with a SJP (Sarah Jessica Parker) esque headband or flower. Instant chic! Finally, the boyfriend jean, which was debuted by Katie Holmes, is another denim alternative. They have a relaxed fit through, with a narrow, cuffed ankle. I like these jeans with...flats! Shocked right? Of course you can wear heels with them, but since the boyfriend jean is kind of preppy, I lean towards flats and loose button ups.

We can't forget about the harem pants, peplum dresses and skirts, jumpsuits, bright hues, asymmetry, tutus, light blazers, prints, period pieces, dresses, shorts, and all the wonderful summer wardrobe options. Explore every avenue that suits you and have fun with it!

Congrats to the BSU class of spring 2009! I wish all nothing but success and prosperity in future endeavors! Keep in mind, dressing to impress will take you far in the workplace. For the rest, I hope that all excelled in their classes and are coping with the obscene amount of papers, presentations, and finals. I am saying a prayer for you and for me to get through it victoriously! Have a safe and productive summer! And as always, "A woman should be classy and fabulous".

Rock Star of the Week

I found a female rock star! Sophomore Romancia McShay, an elementary education student, was spotted in the courtyard in a F21 ensemble. She was wearing gingham, bohemian patterned boat neck dress in fuchsia, turquoise, and green. Romancia accessorized heavily with gold and turquoise jewelry. I especially loved the gaudy turquoise fish medallion. She completed her fit with brown belts, chocolate brown ankle boots, a black and grey, peacock feathered fedora and Diner shades. Her ensemble was bold and daring. Despite the mixing and matching of prints and colors, Romancia made it work! Lets step up the fashion game for fall BSU and the next rock star could be you. Fall 2009 marks the end of my journey at BSU. Who will be my succor?