Urban Outfitters offers high summer style on a college student’s budget-by Rachel Livengood

The summer collection at Urban Outfitters on High Street in Columbus is, to say the least, pretty unique. From the store’s trademark vintage-y pieces to a small, turban-shaped hat, it’s safe to say that this season’s fashion is for those who like to have a little fun with their style.

One detail that has taken over accessories, clothing, and shoes alike is the use of bright, vivid colors. Taking cues from designers like Salvatore Ferragamo, YSL, and D&G, Urban offers several oversized bags (such as the “Suede Doctor Bag”) in colors like candy apple red, bright yellow, and turquoise.

In a similar color palette are a series of plain, simple jersey dresses with slightly varying details – which are, incidentally, a really easy way to stay low-maintenance and still look good while running errands or going to class. Some of the store’s sunglasses also boast trendy bright white and vibrant red plastic frames.




There are a few really unusual – almost questionable – items this summer, such as the Knit Turban Hat on http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/.

Another notable piece is the Lux Printed Scrunch Bottom Blouse, which evokes 80s whimsy but still looks current.

Black tights, footless fishnets and ankle boots abound in the realm of off-beat accessories, in the style of weirdo-chic celebrities and fashion it-girls like Mary-Kate Olsen and Cory Kennedy.
Trends at Urban Outfitters that seem to have carried on over the past few summers include boots, hippie details and huge sunglasses. The Frye Vintage Sunny Boot is a gorgeous yet very simple leather boot. The versatility of the boot is impressive – this style could be worn on a farm in Kansas or in bohemian 1960s Greenwich Village and it would look amazing either way.

Dresses like the Lux Smocked Sweetheart Dress, with its tiered skirt and smocked top, offer a pretty as well as fairly cool option for hot Ohio summers.

Strangely enough, huge sunglasses have not budged from their position as the most popular style in the store – the shades offer a ton of sun protection and can make an outfit inexplicably more glam (even if they do look a little bit ridiculous).

Article by Rachel Livengood fashion stylist and contributor to Columbus Fashion Week