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Must haves for fall fashion on campus

There is just no way I would make it to class in time if I was wearing the newest fashions: A head-to-toe Marc by Marc Jacobs patterned pantsuit, 5-inch stilettos and socks under my heels.

To say the least, I’m no runway model. Although my love of fashion will always and forever extend to the runways, the most I can do while studying at school is incorporate some of the runway’s best trends into my everyday wardrobe.

As the leaves start to brighten and the weather cools down, fashion is definitely starting to heat up. Leather leggings? So in this season. Peplums? Still cool.

The Daily Tar Heel was able to catch up with Teen Vogue editor Jenn Talley, along with a few fashion experts of our own to learn just how to wear these hot new fall trends.

Floral and polka-dotted denim

Jeans are no longer just blue. This fall, floral, polka-dotted and printed denim is everywhere. How much fun is that? When picking a pair of printed denim, Talley suggests that you choose a pair that’s form fitting — but not too tight. The trick is to pick a figure-flattering pattern, she said in an email.

“Dress printed denim up with a loose-fitting solid blazer, or dress them down by rolling up the hems and topping the look off in a chambray shirt,” Talley said.

“Side note: Invest in a great chambray button-down. Chambray can be worn year-round and works with almost everything.”

Patterned jeans are such an easy way to make a simple outfit trendy. This one simple piece can do so much for an outfit.

Oversized sweaters

Like a little black dress, an oversized sweater is a staple for fall. A trendy way to embody every bit of the coziness you’re craving for the season, oversized sweaters are great in any color, shape or pattern. Talley even listed them as one of her five top trends for fall.

The beauty of this fall staple is that you can wear it with leggings, jeans or colored jeans — it’s a must-have.

Peplums

At first, the peplum might seem like a bold move. I understand why they’re scary, but adding shape to any outfit can make something as simple as a T-shirt super trendy. Former Seventeen Magazine intern and UNC senior Sydney McKinney said that pairing a peplum top with a high-waisted skirt or colored skinny jeans will put the trend into action.

“Add a collared necklace to create the ultimate combination,” McKinney said. “College students definitely have access to the peplum trend through stores like H&M and Forever 21.”

Trend watch

Some of Talley’s other must-haves for fall include: Anything in gold and bronze, embellished tops, structured military coats and leather leggings.

This season, there’s not just one trend to look out for. It’s not the “season of blues” or “the era of stripes.” Patterns and new styles are everywhere.

One of Talley’s best tips? Keep trendy pieces to a minimum to ensure a wider wardrobe.

“Splurge on pieces that are timeless, like leather leggings or an oversized sweater,” Talley said.

“Identify trends that work well for your style and body type and find the items at an affordable price and large retailers like Forever 21, Macy’s, Zara, etc.”

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Contact the desk editor at university@dailytarheel.com.

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