Bustier Georgette Maxi Dress, $148 BCBG 

Havanna Clutch, $88 J.Crew

My hip hop team is always booking shows because we know how to entertain a crowd. We're constantly asked to adapt themes for our performances and of course that includes music, makeup and costumes. Our challenge this show: Alice in Wonderland. 
 With no budget, back-to-back performances this week's challenge was putting together the opening act for CSUN's Fashion Show.We made it all work with what we had in our closets. 
We took on Wonderland with a darker tone and decided to focus on the Mad Hatter and what it would be like if he threw a tea party. 
When it comes to stage performances with many people I always go simple and bold colors with dramatic makeup. I styled everyone in structured black and white attire with similar shades of blue as accents.
Using team member's clothing as a base, I took garments and accessories from my own closet to create a collection of looks that all blended together to create a Mad Tea Party cast. 

Check out our Mad House looks inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

 Nothing beats walking out of a thrift shop with a bag full of finds and still a pocket full of cash. My mantra has always been, “you don’t have to have mad money to have mad style.” Thrift shopping is your answer to looking unique and dapper without breaking the bank.The hit new song “Thrift Shop” by Macklemore has not only given us thrifters a themes song but has also projected this economical way of shopping as a mainstream trend.  Just like the song says, $20 in your pocket will have you poppin’ tags! Thrifting is a cheap way to shop for gently used items like clothes, accessories and even things for your home.The alternative way of shopping is not only good for your budget but it benefits the environment as well. You can find cool unique vintage items that will add to your wardrobe, but you’re consciously consuming and recycling goods that would otherwise go to waste. If you choose to shop at the non-profit thrift chains like Goodwill and Salvation Army, the proceeds help fund jobs and assist families in need.

The minute you walk in, the hunt begins. The racks and racks of unsorted clothes can evoke euphoria and excitement for thrift-aholics, but for others it’s an anxiety attack waiting to happen. Fear not my fellow recessionistas/ recessionistos, these style tips will have you addicted to thrifting in no time. Here is what you need to know:

Shopping

• Patience is key when thrifting. You have to take time to move, dig and plow through those racks.
  
• Go hydrated and well fed.
  
• Always think about potential. If you like something analyze it and ask yourself, how can I make it work for me?
  
• Know your size. You can usually tell if something is going to fit you or not by holding it up and checking out the material to see if it’s something that will stretch sand give you room to move. If it looks too small, don’t waste your money buying it.
  
  

Style

• Pair highs and lows. I love pairing a great vintage item with something modern. If I find a fun patterned bomber jacket I’ll pair it with a sleek pair of leggings and a simple graphic screen tee.
  
• Accessorize. If the the thought of wearing someone else’s clothes still makes you cringe, look for accessories. You can find cool belts, jewelry and bags usually under $10.
  
• Look for timeless pieces. Leather and denim are two neutrals that will never go out of style. You can find great jeans, leather jackets and tops for way less than market price.
  
• Find prints. Loud and funky prints are always fun trend to play with. Thrifting is the perfect way to find those unique pieces. You can pair bold printed shirts with neutrals for a funky flashback look.
  
  

Care

• Clothes: Always wash before you wear. In some cases with coats, jackets and delicate items you may have to take them to a dry cleaner. Never buy anything with a serious odor.
  
• Jewelry: Thoroughly clean your pieces with an alcohol pad.
  
• Shoes:  Spray the inside with Lysol disinfectant spray and throw some baking power inside and leave it in overnight and then shake it out the next day.
  

That old CSUN sweater may feel great with a pair of sweats, but you definitely have more potential to swag out your school gear. Classes, work, tests, homework… I know us college kids have a million things going on, but you don’t have to look as tired as you feel.

For that instant pick-me-up, look to your closet for a lift. If you’re feeling like it’s one of those long days ahead and want to look effortless and stay comfortable, school apparel is a great choice. It’s quick, easy and you have to make use of that shirt your mom bought you your first day on campus, right?

Go from drab to fab by pairing those plain CSUN tees and graphic sweaters with pattern and color. Playing around with those two elements can make your school apparel funky and fun. This way it won’t end up in the donation box and it’ll have some longevity in your wardrobe beyond your college study days.

Women

Floral, camouflage and tribal patterns are the hottest trend to play with right now, and it’s easy to find in most major retailers. Patterns style up the outfit and make something simple, like your plain college t-shirt, more fun to wear. For that effortless comfy chic look, pair your CSUN t-shirt with trendy patterned jeans, sneaker wedges and a denim top button down. It’s the perfect outfit for taking on a busy day ahead.

Men

Play with color! Wear styled colored jeans, a denim top with a subtle pattern and a black CSUN crew neck. Don’t think so much about making everything match, go against the grain with contrasting colors and bold patterns like camouflage or plaid to swag up your look. Rock it with a snapback and you can give off that “too-cool-for-school” feel. And we know you men are just as obsessed with shoes as women; they can make or break the outfit. Kick up your style with a bold pair of combat boots or keep it sleek in your favorite sneakers.