Back-to-school Style

Back-to-school season is the perfect time to update your wardrobe. OFC spoke with Brittin Karaffa, marketing manager at Park Meadows, about the hottest trends for the 2012/13 school year. “Park Meadows has a diverse collection of stores that are both fashionable and functional,” she said. “We have everything from clothing and technology to backpacks and unique furnishings for college-bound kids.” Here you’ll find stores like Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, Vans, True Religion and GAP. Park Meadows also is one of the few shopping centers in the country that has both Apple and Microsoft stores, so you can be sure your technology needs will be met.

 Too Cool for School

Skinny jeans: These wardrobe staples are here to stay, but with a new twist for fall. The bright colors that we saw this spring have now shifted to darker, saturated colors like wine, mustard and cobalt blue. “Jazz them up with cute cardigans and functional hoodies for effortless looks,” Karaffa said.

Ballet flats: They aren’t just for dancers! Try them in bright colors, patent leather, animal prints (leopard is huge!), and with embellishments like studs and rivets.

Slouchy knit beanies: This fall, both guys and girls will be sporting these toppers. “Let a little hair fall out of the sides for a flirty look,” Karaffa says.

Bright rugby stripes: For the guys, whether on a T-shirt or on a polo, this bold pattern will add an instant sporty vibe to a pair of jeans.

Your boyfriend’s clothes: We know you already borrow his stuff, but, this semester, blazers, slouchy sweaters, cuffed khakis and loafers will all be hot.

 Fashion Detention

Skulls and crossbones: While these grim details were everywhere last year, it’s time to cheer up with bright florals and fun polka dots.

Neon: Just like in 1983, this trend was everywhere last year. But now it’s (thankfully!) gone again.

Capes: You aren’t Superman. There is absolutely no reason to leave the house in a cape, much less show up to school in one.

Socks with sandals or open-toe shoes: You may see this look on the runways (or on your grandfather), but please don’t go out in public like this! “Instead, wear tie-up brogues, oxfords or moccasins, or high knee socks peeking out from the top of the season’s hottest look – boots,” Karaffa said.

Color blocking: While this was all the rage last year (and even the year before), this season is all about pattern blocking. Mix different patterns – like a floral skirt with a striped t-shirt – but just keep the patterns in the same color family.

 A+ Add-Ons

Hurley The One backpack: This stylish yet functional backpack offers tough protection for a laptop but with a classic laid-back fabric.

The Michael Kors wallet clutch: It combines an iPhone case with a stylish leather clutch (with lots of pockets for credit cards and student IDs).

Vera Bradley tablet folio: This stylish and smart folio can be used upright for watching videos or propped at an angle for typing.

The Marc by Marc Jacobs Mademoiselle Danger snap case for iPhone: It will keep you looking stylish even when you have to call mom and dad for extra cash.

The LifeCam HD-6000 for Notebooks: You may not like it, but your parents will love being able to keep an eye on their college-bound kids.