Dear Dahl,

What pieces should I add to my college girl wardrobe to make it more “grown up”?

xo @KelsJanae’s

With the addition of “Dear Dahl”, I’ve opened up the Dahlight content to you.  Being that I’m thoroughly bored by seeing the same tired fashion topics be re-worked, re-edited and re-published by the majority of respected fashion media month after month, year after year (you get the point), I thought I would find out what topics my fellow fashionistas were interested in learning more about.

With the help of Twitter, I recently asked you what was on your gorgeous mind.  Seems your pretty little heads are quite busy as the queries have been flowing in.  I’m especially happy to learn that you’re interested in many aspects of the fashion industry, beyond just style and beauty, so I have a lot of work ahead of me in order to make good on my goal to answer your inspiring queries.

Antonia Herringbone Tailcoat by Rugby, Ralph Lauren

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So, without further delay, let’s get this “Dear Dahl” project on its way and respond to @KelsJanae’s question:

To begin, let me just admit that I was not a stylish college student.  From the photos I’ve uncovered, it seems my frizzy, asymmetric, bobbed hair was a different color every month.  Being involved in various clubs (and being a brief member of AXO) meant that all I wore were big, boxy, over-sized tee-shirts made of stiff, rough cotton and decorated with event logos screened from front to back.  Most of the time this flattering tee would be paired with high-waisted, acid-wash, pleated jeans and chinos.  Horrors!

Things have changed a bit since my time on campus, thankfully for you, so for this answer I’m calling on my more mature experiences as a designer and stylist.

Dottie Cloche by Cha Cha's House of Ill Repute

First off, I always believe that it’s best to dress your age.  The goal for a college student should be to look capable, mature and put together.  Not older.  The few pieces I’ve chosen will help bring a classic refinement to any basic wardrobe and the look will last you for years to come.

• Tweed jacket – choose one with an updated take on the classic that can be layered with graphic tees, sweaters, shirts and hoodies.

• Crisp white tunic-length button-down shirt – wear it with leggings, jeans, skirts and trousers.

• Plenty of cardigans – to replace the proverbial sweatshirt.  Incorporate both over sized and fitted alike for endless layering options.

Brenkley Pea Coat by Burberry

• Hats – a driver cap, trilby or cloche can each work its way into your daily style but be careful not to buy into the current “disposable” hat trend and rather opt for a head topper made by a milliner with classic artistry.  It will cost more but you’ll have it forever.

• Pleated high-waisted A-line skirt – the classic silhouette will suit any personality.

• Shift dress – an item that’s a blank canvas.  Dress it up or down, wear it to interviews and to the movies.

• Jeans that are clean and tailored – always avoid trendy pocket art and bedazzling

• Opaque tights and leggings – the trend just won’t go away so embrace comfort while avoiding sweatpants at all costs.

Double Breasted Trench with Pleated Skirt by Burberry

• Overcoat, pea coat or trench – you can make even your yoga clothes look presentable if you cover up with one of these essential pieces.

• Leather blazer – because it will bring out your inner rock star while holding onto remaining

• Long scarves – let your creativity run wild and decorate your head, waist and shoulders as well as your neck.

• Great bag – you’re schlepping everything, so do it in style and remember that this is likely your most important accessory.

• Slouchy black booties

• Riding boots

• Oxfords, loafers, ballet flats

Berry Oxford Bootie by Jeffrey Campbell

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• Converse – because they’re comfy, classic and cool.

• Headbands – will make even your bed-head presentable and offers more flair than simply tying your locks back with a band.

• A good haircut – your hair is always on your head, so make it look good!  More hair articles here:  Keratin, Dye it Yourself, Olive Oil Treatments

• A Little make up – don’t overdo it!  Think clean and fresh, not caked and flashy.