Another unique trend that hit the runways this season is a punch of punk flair. Although it may be quite different from what you’re used to putting in your closet, you shouldn’t shy away from the look so quickly.

When paired with streamlined staples, punk accent pieces can add a kick to your everyday ensemble. The Spring 2008 Ready-to-Wear looks below give an edgy twist to the season’s new trends: the high-waisted bottom and the flirty pop of color. Don’t punk out — give ‘em a try!

Anna Sui

L.A.M.B.

I’ll admit that pink isn’t usually my wardrobe color of choice. Yet, I must say that this season’s color palette has me intrigued.

Garments in bright, fruity hues have graced several runways this season, and hot pink seems to be on the forefront of budding spring trends. Does the shocking shade frighten you? It doesn’t have to.

Whether you plan to don the color head-to-toe or just in simple accent pieces, the Spring 2008 Ready-to-Wear looks below may give you the inspiration you need. Who knows? You just might re-think the pink.

Costume National

Blumarine

Emilio Pucci

I recently attended two different fashion shows held here at Tech, one of which was for an organization I am part of, the Fashion Merchandising and Design Society (FMDS).

This year’s show was the first for which there was an actual runway, hence the name “Haute Off the Runway.” My own camera didn’t cooperate and take high-quality pictures, so here’s a link to some professional photographs of our fabulous fashion show! I was very pleased — great student-designed pieces with a couture flare.

The Flashing Lights Fashion Show was held this past weekend and was hosted by Virginia Tech’s National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Overall, a great show. Upbeat and fresh with an urban edge. Below are some photos of the event — enjoy!

This Spring 2008 look from DKNY is the perfect little number for a warm night out on the town. The black satin dress is a classic, yet the tangerine sash belt and sunglasses add the pop of color that is this season’s hottest trend. Paired with a patent strappy heel, this look supplies just the right balance of sassy chic and spring’s fruity hues.

First: the dress. Every woman has her go-to “Little Black Dress,” but this season is taking the classic LBD to new heights with shorter hemlines. I found this great deal below from Forever 21, and at only $27.80, it’s perfect for dressing up or down with a wide range of accessories.

Second: the belt. I found a similar accent piece; not a belt, but a fabulous linen-blend scarf from Old Navy for just $14.50. Wear as a belt as per the DKNY inspiration, or drape around the neck on a breezy evening.

Third: the sunglasses. These cool shades in their orange shade are funky and fun for spring and summer, and the ones below from MaxMara are $29.99 at Overstock.com.

Finally: the shoe. Since I found the dress and accessories at such low prices, I opted for a pricier shoe, which is where you should invest the bulk of your money anyway. This pair of MICHAEL Michael Kors heels is a fantastic staple for the season for $109 at Dillard’s. Its patent straps are great for nighttime and the wood heel gives the shoe a beachy feel.

Altogether: under $200. Remember, a fabulous designer-inspired look is never out of reach — or out of budget!

This Spring 2008 look from Proenza Schouler is a great go-to outfit for those warm days that turn into chilly nights as the season first begins.

First: the dress. This white linen shift dress from Old Navy is an essential for spring and summer with its light and airy, dress-up-or-dress-down appeal. And at only $17.70, you can afford to stock up!

Second: the sweater. The navy blue cardigan sweater in the Proenza Schouler inspiration boasts a relaxed, nautical feel against the crisp white shift, and this 525 America find from Bluefly.com is a necessary throw-on for sudden springtime gales at today’s online price of $71.99. Also a great transition piece for fall.

Finally: the shoe. The dual-tone pump in the inspiration dresses up the otherwise casual linen shift and gives the look an ultra-sophisticated touch. The peep-toe pair below by Steve Madden is only $56.99 at Overstock.com and is the perfect addition to dress up a walk-on-the-beach ensemble into lunch-date ready.

Altogether: under $150. Remember, a fabulous designer-inspired look is never out of reach — or out of budget!

I love designer clothes just as much as the next female, but let’s get serious, shall we? Most of us cannot afford to rock fashion fresh off the runway, so we need to get a bit thrifty.

This Spring 2008 look from Versace is super-chic, but the value of Versace? Not so super-affordable, at least not in college.

So, here are a few online finds that you can put together to create a similar look for a fraction of the designer price.

First: the blouse. The Versace top has very unique detailing, which is hard to match, but I’ve found a close substitute. This shirt is from Old Navy for a mere $20. Pair with a white belt to follow the Versace inspiration.

Second: the shorts. Also from Old Navy, these khaki shorts don’t have the bottom cuffs, but the look is just as streamlined — not as much as the price though. Only $10.99!

Third: the shoe. The chunky, strappy heel balances out the voluminous top with the bare leg in this ensemble, and the tan color helps to elongate the leg. Macy’s carries this great option below by Nine West, and it’s a great staple item for spring and summer at $89.

Finally: the bag. This one is a great addition to your wardrobe as it can transition into fall as well. By Rina Rich, it’s $52.99 at Overstock.com.

This fabulous ensemble with great neutral staple pieces? All under $175. A fabulous designer-inspired look is never out of reach — or out of budget.

Check out more “looks for less” coming soon!