The essentials of college: fashion

A new chapter in life calls for a new sense of style. It's time to throw out your high school threads and build a wardrobe fit for a campus cutie.

As a new school year begins, fashion is all about making the transition from summer to fall.

The heat has not quite fizzled and the leaves still call the trees home.

Plain tank tops and tees can transition well from the beach to the classroom by adding a few fall essentials.

Cardigans and vests are well known on the fashion front this fall and provide the perfect compliment to your summer basics.

Adding an open cardigan or vest to your tank or tee instantly transforms into a casual, but stylish statement.

When pairing your layers be sure not to add to the boredom of your lecture hall and pair a plain piece with a patterned piece.

A great way to add to any outfit or wardrobe is to plan according to the season.

Fashion expert's advice: Over accessorize with bangles of different colors and layer your necklaces. Don't worry about being "matchy" with your jewelry, have fun with different colors and styles.

Also, let's face it "Silly Bandz" are not exactly fashion's best friend. High schools are swarming with arms covered in them and, well, high school is over.

Another way is to add a belt to your skinny jeans. Belts come in many sizes and can be adjusted accordingly incase you fall victim to the "freshman 15."

Just remember one thing: The days of wearing your belt over your shirt are over. Try a skinny belt rather than a thick one and try tucking the front of your shirt in. Skinny belts can be found at retailers such as Forever 21 for under $5.

Ladies, during your first few weeks of classes you will see leggings as pants and Ugg boots in September; do not become a victim or an eyesore for those walking behind you.

Last, but not least, let's not forget about purchasing some Mountaineer gear to replace your old high school T-shirts from band camp or senior year.

We know you're proud of graduating high school, but if you want to avoid the freshman red flag, ditch the high school T-shirts.

If looking for traditional Mountaineer gear such as logo T-shirts and hoodies, shop at the Barnes and Noble West Virginia University Bookstore.

Prices here are affordable for college budgets and convenient for purchase while rounding up your books.

Ladies, if looking for a way to put a girly spin on your game day wardrobe, check out the Victoria's Secret line of WVU gear.

The VS line offers a girl's spin on school spirit with dresses, flip flops and different styles that are both stylish and spirited.

Guys, if looking for a new spin on your WVU gear, try the vintage style T-shirts or add a hat that can both cover up your bed-head for those bright and early classes or add a little something extra to your school-spirited attire.

Whether you're headed for a full day of classes or a night out with some friends, be sure to keep it classy and simple and you are sure to impress your classmates and upperclassmen.