Hoot Couture returns

Columnist Mark Longacre recaps top summer trends and offers ways to keep back-to-school wardrobes trendy.

I’m back.

Some of you remember me from “Hoot Couture” last year when Alexis Sachdev and I stirred up some trouble, but Lex moved on to bigger (fortunately not in the waist) and brighter things, so you’re stuck with me, Mark T. Longacre.  Don’t worry, after a summer of relaxation on a beach with a drink in my hand, I’m ready to hit the ground running, and bring the latest and greatest fashion information straight to you.

As we trade gin and tonics on a boat for iPads and a classroom, it’s starting to feel like school’s back in session. But this summer’s coolest trends that kept you looking hot do not need to go to the back in your closet just because classes are right around the corner.  As long as there are people laying out on Beury Beach, you can still rock that summer outfit without looking like a fish out of water.

Of the summer trends, there were several that caught my eye, which you probably already have in your wardrobe.

My favorite summer trend was the pastel colors many stores incorporated into their lines.  Nothing makes sun-kissed skin pop more than a soft, bright color.  Keep things light and flirty with this summer staple and you’ll be sure to turn some heads.

If pastels aren’t on your pallet, don your Sperry Top-siders and kick it with this summer’s nautical theme.  Blue and white stripe V-necks paired with white shorts kept you at the helm even when you felt like hell after one too many margaritas.

Finally, this summer’s must have was the feather braid.  I didn’t see this trend coming from a mile away, but it took the country by storm.  Girls were lining up at salons faster than a perm sale in the ‘80s for their chance to keep it bohemian chic with a feather in their hair.

This is a new school year, and a chance for a new you.  Forget the sloppy mistakes you made last year – assuming you remember them – and put your best foot forward with a new look.  There are a couple simple ways to look like a fashionista without spending an hour in the closet every day.

In order to look like a lady or gentleman, you have to pick a staple outfit that you can throw on in lieu of sweats.  It doesn’t have to be anything special, just something that’ll get you through the day in comfort and style.

While you’re picking your staple outfit, look for a style that comes naturally to you.  If you can put together an outfit that looks good without spending too much time thinking about it, that style is for you.

Once you’ve found your sense of fashion, check out some of the boutiques Philly has to offer. While it’s not New York, Philly fashion is getting pretty hot.  Keep these tips in mind throughout the year so you can build your fashion repertoire.

To make getting into the fashion world a little easier this semester, “Hoot Couture” will showcase some of the best Philly fashion with runway reviews, trends to watch and on-the-spot interviews. For the most part, Temple students have impeccable style. So once a month, I’d like to show off different styles seen around campus.

Like art, taste in fashion is very subjective, and there are many different ways of expression.  I want to capture different views of fashion so almost anyone could take an outfit and make it their own.

This year, I want “Hoot Couture” to be a forum for Philly fashion.  If you ever disagree with my column, want advice or simply have an opinion, feel free to email me.  I’m always looking to hear an opinion other than my own.

Mark Longacre can be reached at   mark.longacre@temple.edu.