The Smoke Signal

By: Aamir Rasheed, Grace Wu, Hairol Ma, Ishan Goyal

Outfit #1
This spring, match dark jewel tones with metallic skirts and spikes, allowing feminine to blend with punk at the same time. Though pricey, the Steve Madden Missmee Flat ($129.95) can give your outfit a polished look with its prim heel and tiny studs. For a cheaper option, Aldo has similar flats ranging from $40-$70. Splurge some more with a Petite Gold Jacquard Skirt, $35.00. Tuck a simple sleeveless blouse top, such as American Eagle’s Hi-Low Tank ($19.99) into the skirt. Lastly, no outfit is complete without accessories! Forever 21’s Braided Metallic Bead Necklace ($6.80) can be layered beneath the collar of the top. Use Topshop’s Faux Pony Hair Stud Belt ($20.00) to tuck in any prominent belly. Lastly, use cuffs and large rings to further embellish your outfit. Forever 21 is home to many cheap and cute accessories such as its Woven Curb Chain Bracelet ($6.80), Faceted Stretchy bracelet ($7.80) and Zigzag Patterned Bangle Set ($8.80). Adding a large ring, such as Forever 21’s Etched Oval Ring ($5.80) or Rhinestoned Cheetah Ring ($5.80) also matches the look. This outfit is extremely versatile because gold accents can be swapped for silver and jewel tones can vary.

Outfit #2
This spring, denim is no longer just for bottoms. Chambray shirts, lightweight denim shirts, are all the rage this season. From chilly days to weekend wear to even formal attire, the chambray shirt is a wardrobe staple that is versatile yet incredibly chic. This chambray shirt from Forever 21 is right on trend and affordable at $22.80. For an outfit that is stylish and school-appropriate, pair the shirt with colored shorts. This pair of high-waisted lace shorts ($17.80) at Forever 21, adds just the right amount of color for the spring season and the lace brings a delicate feel to the outfit. Make sure to button up and tuck in your shirt to show off your shorts. White pairs nicely with pink so this white and gold statement necklace ($10.80) is the perfect addition to an otherwise plain top. The gold spike bracelet ($6.00) from Charlotte Russe, is a great way to incorporate a big of edginess to contrast with the softness of the lace shorts. Lastly, complete the look with neutral sandals; this pair ($17.50) from Charlotte Russe, is cute and won’t break the bank.

Outfit #3
Not playing on a sports team this spring? No problem! Look and feel athletic with a sporty outfit. For the top, consider the Mens’ Adidas Original Defender Track Jacket ($38). Not only is it a bold fashion statement, but it can also double as workout gear when you head to the gym. For the bottom, wear the LRG Grass Roots Raw Denim Jean ($59.99). Raw denim was once expensive to own, but has since become more of a commodity. Finish it off with the trending Nike Roshe Run ($70).

Outfit #4

There are always those weeks where the weather is just miserable and nature just imposes the coldest winds upon us all. For times like these, a more cozy and insulated style is needed. It doesn’t matter what kind of shirt you are wearing as long as you have on a Diamond crew neck ($59.95). These articles may be pricey but show the ladies that you truly are a diamond in the rough. Go to Levi’s and pick up a pair of black jeans ($48) that are durable and cozy. Wear a matching black belt to complement your jeans or if you are aiming for the flamboyant look, a white belt. Lastly, a pair of rather pricey Nike Janoski shoes ($85) will top off your warm weather look.