So how does the modern teenager manage? Well, by listening to me. Let's explore ...
I spoke to we.are.the.disconnect, Anchorage's very own underground fashion blog (think "The Sartorialist" with soul), and here's what you need to keep in mind when back-to-school shopping:
For girls, expand your outfits from the boring jean/top combos that will get lost in the sea of students. To stand out, base your ensemble on a central theme. This can mean an era, a favorite movie, or, as the.disconnect suggests, "touches of whimsy taken from Alice in Wonderland, Little Red Riding Hood. Accents from the Tudors on Showtime are hot right now. This doesn't mean you have to go full Harajuku."
Fluorescent tights and leggings are also a great way to bring in color and excitement, but be careful not to overdo it. "Think gray tweeds with a delicate pink leg."
Boys should always remember that fitted clothes aren't just for girls. As the.disconnect says, "Jackets/coats/whatever you are rocking on top should show off a slim line."
Straight pants, be they jeans or otherwise, with a tailored look are an excellent way to spiff up an outfit, even if they're paired with a casual top. Alternatively, for you daring up-and-coming fashion icons, the.disconnect suggests "experimenting with a fitted top/looser pant ala 1940s/50s."
Please, oh please, do not fall into the trap of Abercrombie and American Eagle advertisements. Dressing like those models is the best way to look generic when you get back to school. Instead of just hitting up the mall, when you go shopping look for pieces in consignment and thrift stores. (Even Salvation Army will have the occasional piece of amazingness.) As the.disconnect reminds us, "Pairing your retail with thrift-store finds is going to be the best way to stay current. We are still in the fashion era of layering, so you have plenty of opportunity."
As for the fall must-haves, the.disconnect suggests a wide belt, cinch dress, T-shirts and sweaters for girls and a cardigan for boys. (That's right; they aren't just for grandfathers.) For a particularly hipster look, add in a skinny tie to that equation. The.disconnect also advises, "It's fall in Alaska. Make sure your coat is fabulous enough for what it's hiding, and your sunglasses introduce you to the world correctly."
Finally, a list of prohibited items: "Crocs, baseball caps, and Uggs before it hits freezing."
Michael Lawlor is a recent graduate of West High.
We are the disconnect, aka the.disconnect, is a local fashion blog found at
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