Since declaring a fashion merchandising major I have been subject to constant text messages from my friends and family needing advice on what to wear and how to wear it. And as a lover for all pieces of fabric with a price tag, I am always happy to help them out.

Recently I received such a text from one of my closest friends, Kelsey, who is a freshman at Xavier this fall.

As I slyly checked my phone between grabbing ketchup and napkins at my summer waitressing job, I read: “Manda, I need you to help me find a scandalous dress for college.”

My first thought: “Oh, honey, you’re going to need more than just one dress.”

But then I had to take a step back because how do the people dress at Xavier?

Although we have all escaped the plaid uniforms and strict finger-tip-length-shorts dress codes of high school, it would be crazy to say that each university doesn’t have some form of a “dress code.”

When you think Miami University, visions of Sperry Top-Siders, button up shirts and khakis immediately pops into anyone’s head. At Bowling Green, a night out wouldn’t be complete without an ensemble straight from the racks of Charlotte Rousse and Wet Seal, neon leopard print skirts and all.

And at Ohio State —my least favorite dress code of them all —“OSU Casual” comes to mind, as anything besides a t-shirt covered in Buckeye slogans paired with jeans is considered dressed up.

So with this, I thought, what is Kent’s dress code?

After some consideration I came to this conclusion – we don’t have one. But why would we? As a university that prides itself on a globally acclaimed fashion program, individuality is what Kent students thrive for. Any outfit is fit for any occasion at Kent, and our students can pull it off with in our campus’ fashion-savvy environment.

So Kent students, proudly display your dress code slashing outfits this school year, and continue to be un-stereotypical. As for Kelsey, I’m sure I will be able to figure out something for her to wear.

-Amanda 

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One trend that I have been following religiously this season is the mix between feminine and masculine pieces.  I noticed a very popular way to turn an extremely girly outfit into an edgier ensemble by incorporating spikes and studs.

Before studs were used with feminine pieces, I feel we all had an unsure view of the impression they gave off.  In the past, the gothic trend made studs known.  However, for those who shy away from harsh trends such as this, studs were never on the majority of our minds.

In spite of this, they have come into the public eye again, but in a totally different view.  All fashionistas are lusting over studded shoes, shirts and shorts to mix with their floral tops and sequined dresses.

The only problem is that this look comes with a massive price tag.  As soon as studs are added to a simple garment, it seems the price almost doubles.  For a college student like me, I had to figure out a more affordable way to stay on trend this season.

After deciding to get crafty, I ordered some studs from eBay for less than $2.  The selection was immense and all were extremely affordable.  Majority of the studs offered on eBay come with four pointy prongs on the back (this is crucial to the project).

These prongs poke easily through all different types of fabric, even denim and leather!  Once you poke the prongs through, flatten them with pliers or a butter knife.  Then, VOILÀ!  This is a simple way to spice up your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

-Jackie

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I am a sophomore studying Fashion Merchandising and hope to minor in entrepreneurship and/or economics. I am from New Jersey, I say BAYgels and WARDer and I am proud of it. However, unlike Snooks, my style is casual, classic, with a whimsical, romantic twist. I love good food, traveling, DIY projects, music and (surprise)… fashion. I look forward to sharing my thoughts, lessons and inspirations with you. So here it goes!

As much as I hate to see summer time end, I am glad to be back in Kent and away from the Jersey Shore crew that inhabited my home state over three years ago. While I got to spend a week down at the shore, most of my time was spent in the hustle and bustle of New York City for a Public Relations internship with Plomo, an up and coming contemporary shoe brand.

For all of you fashionistas who create trends, investing in a pair of Plomos is a must. The shoes are chic, daring and truly unique. The designers Keltse and Galia gain their creativeness from traveling, food, people and even books they read. While I did not get to spend much time with Galia because she lives in Mexico, Keltse is the epitome of artsy chic. The girl can pull off any outfit and her gaze holds a twinkle that only true artists possess.

The Spring 2012 Collection was inspired by the French Riviera and the Southern Italian Coast. The shoes capture elements of the beach with cork and wooden platforms. Lavender fields, Van Gogh’s paintings and Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’ Avignon are shown through the pale pallet the designers decided on. Inspiration for strappy oxfords in soft gray and beige leathers came from the Pope’s Palace, stone walls and Avignon’s broken bridge. The end result – romantic, mysterious footwear that leaves you asking for more.

For Fall 2013, the girls capture the culture of Merida, Mexico in their shoes. From intricate architecture surrounded by tropical jungles to the local people called yucatecos, Merida was full of inspiration. Loafers, oxfords, and fringed boots in natural and dark earth tones complete the upcoming collection. While a bulk of the line displays a men-inspired look, curvy-silhouettes and pointed toes add a feminine touch.

You can find Plomo Shoes online at these sites: solestruck, piperlime and isaay. The shoes are also in several boutiques such as Calypso and Lulu Brandt. Plomo hopes to start selling directly to their buyers in the spring.

-Alexa

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