The BSU Fashionista Diaries

The Grand Finale

By Nikki Osei

          It is indeed the grand finale. The year is approaching its conclusion and I am finally graduating from BSU and beginning the next chapter of this adventure called life. The impending New Year brings forth these "resolutions." Whatever resolutions you make, adhere to them and add this one to your list, "Dress to Impress." Spring 2010 fashions are hard hitting. And for the final time, allow me to enlighten you on the shut them down fads of the New Year.

            Many trends rightfully survived and transitioned into 2010. Metallics, prints, embroidery, all back everything (though I'm not privy to that), staggeringly high heels (platforms please), the romper, minis, OTK boots, distressed denim, and military and tribal influences are but few. Included in the metallic category are all things shiny.  My current obsession with sequins shall thrive. Stock up and shine on. Become acquainted with the sequined dress. It's the perfect holiday get up. Throw one on with a bold bootie or classic pump and you're set to spread some holiday cheer. Remember only one blinding piece is needed complete the fit. I'm often tempted to OD (overdose) on shine, but I pull the reigns.

            This spring pull out your knee-high socks because the schoolgirl look is back. The knee-high sock can be rocked with a mini, shorts, or dress and paired with a Mary Jane styled platform. The OTK boot continues its reign and I would hope that by now you have invested in a pair. Specifically a pair over $100. You get what you pay for! Nothing irks me more than a pair of soggy OTK's. Aldo has awesome pairs ranging from $150-$250. I continue to dream of the $2000 Louboutin pair.

            Hot pants are back and the cheekier the better. Use discretion when rocking this look. I'm not sure your professors would appreciate such over exposure in class, but this look is perfect for bar or club hopping. The boyfriend blazer compliments them since they fall below your bottom. Asos.com, Urban Outfitters, and H&M to name a few, have to die for, you guessed it, sequined hot pants! If you are on the thicker side or bottom heavy, avert your vision from the racks featuring this cheeky garment.

            The romper/one piece has fortunately stayed around for another season and I couldn't be more ecstatic! They are haute long or short. Though not bathroom friendly, they provide you with a chic ensemble in one garment. Accessorize excessively, top it off with the highest heels, and strut it out. Speaking of accessories, the gaudier the better. Invest in massive cocktail rings, huge neck baubles, and hair accessories.

            Balmania continues its course in the New Year, meaning strong, exaggerated shoulders should be rocked for the win. Bold on the top simple on the bottom. If looking for a Balmain inspired jacket, look no further than Topshop. Their jackets are drool worthy and certainly worth the $170-$310 price tags. And because they aren't F21 priced, you can rest assured that you won't catch other fashionistas in your cover up.           

 In 2010, denim is still rocker chic, slashed and embellished. I read that patch covered denim is making a comeback, however, I'm weary. I have to wait and see what is presented before deciding to entertain that thread. I don't want to walk around looking like an extra from "That '70s Show."

            The trends are many. There is nothing wrong with being "trendy." It doesn't make you a follower it's simply a guideline. Embrace a style you like and adapt it to fit your persona. Fashion is a form of self-expression.

            A major perk of being a woman is dressing up, so do so! The lax style of dress amongst female college students is disheartening. Once you secure a full time position, I'm sure you will deem such shabby styles of dress inappropriate, so why is it acceptable now? I've said many things over the course of these two years, but one that has been reiterated ad nausem is DRESS TO IMPRESS!

            Is this really my last issue? My transcript implies so. The past five semesters spent writing about what I heart the most (fashion) have been incredible. I've met many students, made friends and a few enemies, but most importantly I generated a portfolio of work, establishing me as fashion writer worthy enough to stomp NYC pavement.

            In two weeks I will be an alumna of Bowie State University. How I've hoped and prayed for this day, but its arrival is accompanied by the realization that I must leave you all. Bittersweetness indeed. Fashion aside, I've been an advocate of treating yourself and others with respect, being kind to one another (ladies especially), having a great personality, and being an all around genuine person. It is the culmination of these traits that establishes one as a Flawlessly Fabulous Fashionista, not just a hot fit.

            The Spectrum I will miss you! Thank your Dr. Rex and Professor Haynes for allowing me to share my at times non-conventional perspectives. Fashionistas and fellows, I'm sure that my successor will lead you in the right fashion direction. I'm off to begin my career as a fashion public relations practitioner in NYC. Wish me luck!! So BSU, I bid you adieu and for the last time remember Coco Chanel's iconic words, "A lady should always be classy and fabulous."