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Health & Fitness

Hi Five For Back-to-School Cool

5 must-have fashion do's for Fall 2011.

On The Fashion Front By Colleen's Contributor, Mys Chic

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Though August’s heat calls us to the pool or a shady outdoor café, the upcoming school year is just around the corner. Whether you are a student, raising a student, or just like to retain your youthful flair, the following fashion trends will come in handy.

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1.  Tote bags are a back-to-school 2011 must for those who carry books—or professional paraphernalia—but crave a catchy look. Totes are great because they can also function as purses when going to the grocery store or around town. I like the customizable Vineyard Vines totes, though they are pricey. Options kinder to the budget can be found in LL Bean’s line. Monogrammed bags in many different colors are available for order, and they are so affordable that you could order different colors for each season!

2. Even when hot weather persists well into the fall, classroom air-conditioners remain on at full blast. A cute cardigan can easily fit in your tote and will keep you in comfortable style. I like J.Crew’s range of options; they carry both long and cropped cardis.

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3. Fresh fall make-up is a must. Most people will sport a nice summer glow (although I will be faking it with a spray tan), but when the weather gets cooler, you should switch from a tinted moisturizer to a regular foundation. Sephora’s make-up consultants can match you up for a foundation and their store brand is comparable to many more expensive ones. Bronzer keeps your glow going throughout the fall. I use Warmth or Faux Tan from Bare Minerals. Other essentials include a long-wearing mascara, blush (I like Benetint by Benefit) and some lip gloss.

4. In the shoe department, rain boots are a smart and sensible purchase. Hunter makes durable rain boots in about every color imaginable. They can be found at Nordstrom or Bloomingdales. J. Crew and Gap usually carry cute boots, and Target has many fun, and affordable, prints.

5. When shopping for shirts, keep transitionary blouses and layering pieces in mind. Selecting cream instead of white allows you to easily layer shirts under fall colored jackets or cardigans. Colors tend to be more muted in the fall, but you can keep them interesting by wearing saturated hues, such as plum, pine green, and navy.

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