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LA Expert's Tips For College Style

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It wasn't too long ago that costume designer/stylist Matthew Peridis walked the campus as an undergrad at UCLA. Today he lends his keen fashion eye to LA college students with tips, tricks and fashion insider secrets on looking good throughout the school year. Peridis points out that students have a full schedule and often times they don't have time to think through their head-to-toe look. He suggests an accessible wardrobe that can be mixed and matched for when the alarm clocks rings early, Greek rush, in-class presentations and partying on the weekend. Peridis created a special Pinterest board featuring all of the looks he discusses below.

New Report: Half Of Recent College Graduates Under- Or Unemployed
(credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Effortless Style = Success

 
For early a.m. classes or late-night study groups, effortless style is key to fashion survival. Make sure your basics can go with pretty much anything in your wardrobe. A super comfy and soft hoodie is a must on campus (try Alternative Apparel for great wearable colors too). All you want to do is throw on some sweats when you've pulled an all-nighter and are late for class, so make sure they are T by Alexander Wang (no fashion faux pas here). Don't forget to stock up on killer simple tees by ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo. Simple, clean and classic leather Jack Purcell's are easy for no-fuss style on any guy or gal.

California v UCLA
(credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

University Of California Life Is Hot

 
College kids in L.A. have a certain fashion cache about them that the rest of the country covets. Bring it on with go-to essentials including cat-eyed shades or Wayfarers, Wildfox punk'd out conversation starter (a la "I Hate Mondays") printed tees or sweaters, the perfect cut-off jean shorts and awesome colorful tanks from Aviator Nation – perfect for the beach or gym and will definitely catch that special someone's eye. If there is one thing James Perse knows, it is how to make the perfect sweater. You can throw this over anything and instantly pull off that California cool look.

New Report: Half Of Recent College Graduates Under- Or Unemployed
(credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Party Wear Doesn't Have To Look "Desperate"

 
When not studying, a college social life is vital to a co-ed's success. Going out but don't want to put on a dress? Grab rag & bone skinny rocker jeans - the rips show that you know how to party and are not afraid to get dirty. Think before you get dressed to go out. Party dresses can be short without making you look like you're working for it. This year, undergrads will be donning the biker jacket – it's been in style for decades and isn't going out anytime soon. Invest in an All Saints leather jacket – it won't let you down. For guys, don't forget cool tonal patterned shirts – you, too, can look stylish without going too far out of the box. Lastly, every guy, even a college student, needs a suit. Dark grey or dark navy covers everything from a business class presentation to a first job interview to a date night with that girl you've been bumping into at coffee. Whatever you end up using, make sure it fits right.

Related: Best Nightlife Spots For The Under 21 Crowd In Los Angeles

New Report: Half Of Recent College Graduates Under- Or Unemployed
(credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Don't Be A Bag Lady

 
When it comes to lugging around your books, electronics and such, consider a nice combination of functional and stylish. If you are not a backpacker, try a leather tote from Steven Alan by Mansur Gavriel – it will fit all of those books without looking bulky. Don't carry your crap in a piece of crap. WILL Leather Goods knows how to make an awesome backpack. Everyone has an iPhone these days so you better have the cutest case to separate yours from all the others (check out cute designs from J.Crew and Jonathan Adler).

New Report: Half Of Recent College Graduates Under- Or Unemployed
(Photo credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Budget Shopping

 
Most students are on a budget, but that doesn't mean you have to forgo style. To maintain the fashion while keeping your dollars and sense about it all, there are multiple shopping options. Cheaper alternatives include Zara – it has great jackets, shoes and jeans and are on point with style trends -- H&M for basics such as tank tops and tees, as well as Brandy Melville (located in Bruin territory). Having one vintage item in your wardrobe always sells it. It doesn't make you look overly polished, and it shows that you know how to shop. Jet Rag is such a great source.

Related: Best Outlet Malls Around Los Angeles

Sheryl Craig is a writer with a passion for interesting finds and treasures in Los Angeles. She has a background in journalism and public relations. A mother of two daughters, Sheryl integrates her healthy lifestyle into raising her children. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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