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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While enjoying the weather this weekend, I couldn’t stop scrolling through the millions of pictures of people living it up at Coachella.

I have dreams of attending just so I can see, in person, all the creative ways people choose to dress.

Wanting so badly to attend, I decided to inspire that day’s outfit from all the new, artistic ideas seen at the music festival.

Aiming for a less-than-girly look, I finally broke out my high-waisted black denim shorts.

By pairing them with a tan chunky sweater and combat boots, it helped give the look the edge that I adore.

Of course, I had to add a pop of color, so I chose a pink braided belt.  Finishing off with accessories, I piled my arms high with various textures of bracelets.

— Jackie

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Being a fashion major, my artistic abilities are always being tested.  Since running short of fresh, new ideas is unacceptable, what must one do?  We get inspired, of course!

Inspiration can come from anywhere- people, places, things, concepts.  The key is to find inspiration that works for you specifically.  Not everyone can look at a picture of nature and resurrect a genius idea.  On the other hand, not everyone can leaf through a magazine and become motivated to try out a new trend.

A few years ago I noticed that so many different things gave me inspiration.  I wanted to capture all the pictures, magazines, and moments that gave me these wonderful thoughts and bright ideas.

With a simple composition book, I created something that I would literally die without- my own, personal book of inspiration.

My book contains magazine clippings, pictures of street fashion, parts of blog posts from my favorite fashion bloggers, quotes that motivate me, and so much more.  The neat thing about the book is that it is always being updated.  I am constantly cutting out pictures from magazines or printing off photos from the internet.

Not only was it extremely easy to create, it still is incredibly rewarding.  I can flip through the pages when I am feeling unmotivated and I instantly become excited to start a new project.  The motivation I get from this book is different from a typical magazine or blog post because all the images and words were specifically chosen by ME.  Every page has its own meaning, making the entire book mean so much more.

I encourage everyone, not just fashion majors, to create a book of their own.  A little inspiration goes a long way.

— Jackie 

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