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 Rachael Severino is an incoming high school senior at Sachem North High School in Sachem School District. This aspiring writer has a knack for the written word. She has penned short stories, poetry and is developing an impressive body of work. |
| As the hazy summer end draws near, school creeps closer, bringing cozy sweaters and velvet booties along. Back to school inspires new and vibrant outfits, often picking up on late summer favorites and blooming autumn fads. A perfect blend of summer and autumn’s trends are statement sleeves. Ruffled, ruched, and textured sleeves are flouncy and crisp. Short or long, these sleeves can be found on blouses, slim-cut dresses, and more stylish cropped shirts. Another up-and-comer this September is animal print. Look for these patterns on just about any item, from clothing – think skirts and jackets, to accessories like bags and boots. Leopard print appears to be the most beloved of all the animal skins, so be sure to look for a good statement piece with this pattern. A favorite from last year, that is thankfully sticking around, is faux-suede. Typically paired with a front zipper or button-down front, suede dresses and skirts in slim cuts will be back in full force this autumn. This fabric is a classic nineties look that exudes a powerful sense of femininity. Paired with chic boots and clever jewelry choices, faux-suede will transform any wearer into a vision. Inspired by beloved models like Kendall Jenner and Instagram icons, slouchy boots are on the rise. These end right before the knee and are bunched up along the leg. Thick velvet, often doused in glitter and paired with a chunky heel, you can anticipate seeing them everywhere and on everyone as soon as the weather permits. For our masculine readers, there are of course trends for you too. Everyone seems to have fallen in love with decades wear, men included. Retro sportswear has been a popular and clean look that is, once again, sweeping the racks at every clothing store. Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, and Fila are repurposing the nineties’ athleisure aesthetic. Two-piece tracksuits in primary colors, drawstring joggers in luxurious fabrics, and zip-up nylon will continue to dominant men’s fashion. As always, high school and college men love their sneakers. Nike’s new Free Run Flyknit 2018 -in black and white seem to be the biggest hit yet. Almost sweater like in appearance, this running shoe is a hit. Nike has several styles with a similar look and they are flying off the shelves. Expect to see more neutral or muted colors for the return of school, but they will likely have accent colors such as lime green or electric blue, to add a little pop. For the most part, men’s styles are similar to last year’s looks. Simple t-shirts in soft fabrics, jeans in either the darkest wash or ones that have been acid washed, the latest sneaker, and a hoodie from an underground interest, much like thrasher. As always, trends come and go, the true fair-weather friend of the fashion world. Wear what makes you happiest, throw in a trend or two that you like, and you’re set. Clothing is one of the easiest forms of expression, so express yourself and have fun. |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 