5 Must-Have Items to Update Your Wardrobe for 2013
Photo Credit: jeff_golden
New year, new wardrobe. At least, that’s my New Year’s resolution. Every year, once the holidays are good and over, I like to go on a closet reorganization spree, ditching last year’s fast fashions and stocking up on the latest trends.
That’s when my checking account gets really mad at me. There are just too many new styles to try!
If you’re looking to expand your wardrobe without breaking the bank, read on. I’ll be showing you five versatile and budget-friendly items (all under $100 and most under $50, except for one pair of boots) that will make this year your most stylish yet.
1. An Embellished Sweater
These stylish sweaters are anything but simple. This year, it’s all about the details. Whether you’re rocking tiny pearls, glimmering sequins, or edgy studs, these cozy yet glamorous sweaters will help you turn up the heat (in more ways than one). Try one with a pair of your favorite dark skinny jeans and some killer ankle booties and let the compliments come pouring in!
Product Info: Necklace Sweater – Nordstrom, Jeweled Pocket Sweater – Mango, Pearl Sweater – Forever 21
Studded Pullover – Forever 21, Spike Shoulder Sweater – Forever 21, Embellished Shoulder Sweater – Nordstrom
2. Riding Boots
Even if you’ve never set foot near a horse, riding boots are a wardrobe necessity this season. They look fabulous on everyone because they create sleek lines, elongating the leg. Not to mention, they can elevate an average “jeans and a tee” look to polished perfection. Styles range from preppy to boho, to edgy, so there’s a pair out there for everyone. A great pair of riding boots can be pretty pricey, but don’t be afraid to splurge on a classic pair you can keep forever!
Top, L-R: Steve Madden, Go Jane, BooHoo, Kelly & Katie
Bottom, L-R: Tilly’s, Lulu’s, Topshop, Rachel Roy
3. Emerald Nails
Pantone declared emerald the color of the year, and I couldn’t love their choice more: This lush green is a total stunner! But don’t worry, I’m not about to go all Wizard of Oz on you. At least, not yet.
Try out the trend in a subtle way by picking up a bottle of emerald nail polish. Deep green tips are a stylish alternative to the same old dark reds, purples and metallics we usually see this time of year, so don’t be afraid to go bold! Whether you prefer matte polishes or glittery accents, you just can’t go wrong with this gorgeous shade.
Top, L-R: 1. Deborah Lippmann, 2. ORLY, 3. Butter London
Bottom, L-R: 1. China Glaze, 2. Illamasqua, 3. Essie
4. Something (faux) Leather
Every girl needs a little leather in her life. Tough but soft (much like the perfect boyfriend), the right leather piece can take your look to the next level, even if it’s just a simple clutch or a fun cuff. Pair a leather jacket with a lace dress or a soft sweater for some killer contrast, or go full-on wild child by pairing edgy coated leather-look jeans with a cut-off tee and studded flats.
Product Info: Jacket – Forever 21, Coated Jeans – JCPenney, Cuff – Miss Selfridge, Bracelet – ASOS, Skirt – Forever 21, Belt – Debenhams, Flats – Payless, Clutch – Topshop, Bag – H&M, Shorts – Topshop
5. Spiked Jewelry
Look sharp (literally) this year in my favorite trend of the moment, spiked jewelry. You don’t have to be a motorcycle aficionado or a Sex Pistols fangirl to adore this trend – after all, a touch of edge can add so much to an otherwise-average outfit. Though it’s easy to pair these pieces with a leather jacket and combat boots and call it a day, they look especially stunning with girly or more classic looks. Lacy top and a no-nonsense blazer with a spiked cuff? Yes, please.
Top row, L-R: Necklace, Earrings, Bracelet | Middle row, L-R: Bangles, Ring, Necklace
Bottom row, L-R: Cuff, Necklace, Earrings
Your thoughts?
How will you update your wardrobe for the new year? Which trends will you be rocking on campus? Be sure to leave me a comment and let me know what you think, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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Posted on on January 15, 2013 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: embellished sweater, Emerald, Featured, Layering, leather, Riding Boots, spiked jewelry, Spikes, Spring 2013, Studs, Sweaters, Winter 2012, winter fashion
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Catarina Albuquerque
I’m in love with the trend of embellished sweaters and riding boots!
I’m going to try to do my own sweaters, really need to search some DIY, but I’m going to put my hands and start working.
However I can’t appreciate the emerald nails, I can’t picture my nails in green, it wouldn’t match with anything..
Cristina M.
What about riding boots for girls that have bigger calves than normal? It’s so hard to find one that will fit
Jasmin S.
Hey Cristina,
For girls with larger calves I suggest riding boots that feature an elasticized back, or adjustable buckles.
There is a whole section on Nordstrom’s website, under Boots, Extended Sizes, and then Wide Calf! Hopefully you find something that works for you :)
Kate
I feel that the whole grungy, studs, and leather trend is way off course from my personal style for me to follow it. I do however love the emerald nails (or anything jewel toned) and I think that an embellished sweater can fit nicely into anyone’s style.
Jennifer Lindsay
I love all of these and I say bring on the emerald city. I’d love to see a Pantone color post from CF!
Musical Lynn
I like the leather and spike trend going on
Lauren
I love these posts ;) I have to say though, I don’t think spiked jewelry is essential….I don’t think that’s necessarily me. But, I could definitely get behind a spiked sweater! Maybe spikes in general are the “in” item :)
Mina
I love the look of riding boots, but my calves are so small that the boots look ridiculous on me. Any suggestions on a brand that carries smaller calve boots?
Alyssa Nicole
Love all these items! I think you can learn to evolve each one of these pieces based on one’s personal sense of style. I am really lusting after an embellished sweater though :)
Nadja
I already own everything but emerald nail polish.
Nadja
So, to wear all of these together: an embellished sweater, leather pants, riding boots, jewelry and nail polish. You can even combine the color emerald with a sweater and embellish it.
Nadja
You forgot printed jeans too.
Amy
Revlon “posh” nail polish is the perfect emerald cream color! I use it all the time and it’s only $4!
Zoe Alexander UK
I like that : “new year, new wardrobe”! Great selection Carina! Many thanks
Zoe xxx
S.Bankston
Love your fresh and new ideas. Keep up the good work!
Isabelle
I love all of the boots, I got some Miss Sixty ones for Christmas a little bit like the ones on the bottom left. Love them!
Kimberly
I LOVE this list. The spikey accessories are a MUST-have. I already have so many spikey pieces from Baublebar and Asos. I think they add the perfect amount of edge to an outfit! Also, I’ve always wanted a pair of riding boots. I’ve been craving Frye Harness Boots for the longest time, but they’re too pricey! Thanks for giving me some cheaper alternatives!
Sarah
This list is literally perfect! Even though it’s well and truly Summer where I live, I cannot wait to jump into Winter fashion :)
Rhian
Hi all,
Love your blog and the pieces you’ve put together! This is my first time to your blog so will definitely add it to my bookmark list. Loving the ASOS leather skirt. Is it still available? I’ve been eyeing up a leather jacket in Warehouse not sure whether to get it or not but they have free uk standard del at the mo!
Alisa
I really love the spiked idea, but only spiked headbands. I was inspired by a Korean girl group’s latest song that came out on Jan. 1st: Girls’ Generation’s I Got A Boy. I really loved their style. I specifically saw a few of their members wearing spiked headbands for one of their performances. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=logoQckTguk :)