- Denim is a staple of the teen fashion wardrobe. Look for different denim washes to shake up your look. Dark-rinsed denim is the most versatile for guys and girls, as it can be worn in the day for school and on the weekends for bowling with friends. Denim skirts are popular for girls, but keep the hemline just above the knees and no shorter, so the skirt is appropriate for many occasions. Denim silhouettes of every variety are fashionable, so go with what works for your body type. Tall, lanky bodies look great in skinny and straight-leg jeans, while rounder shapes look good in bootcut and wide-leg denim.
- Bright color is great for teens because it allows you to change up a look instantly with minimal effort. Color isn't only reserved for girls, as guys can sport it too for casual and evening looks. Bright T-shirts, blouses, oxford shirts and V-neck sweaters add a splash of fun to basic denim and other staples in your wardrobe. Colors don't have to match, but they have to make sense, so try to keep cool colors with similar colors and warm hues with like shades to keep things coordinated.
- For school, keep things simple. Your wardrobe should consist of tops you love, denim that fits well and comfortable shoes that make it easy to get around the hallways. If you aren't into wearing jeans every single day, spruce up your school clothing with a few easy pieces that are slightly more dressed up. These items will work for school assemblies, extracurricular events and dinners with your family. Girls can have fill out their wardrobes with sheath dresses, a simple pencil or pleated skirt, bright tights and printed blouses. Guys can try twill pants, khakis and polo shirts.
- Your weekends are a time to wear things you might not usually wear to school. Scour local vintage stores and thrift shops for unique finds that will work with your pocketbook. Remember, the point isn't to look like you were plucked straight from the '60s. You want to take one vintage piece and wear it in a modern way, so pair it with current pieces in your wardrobe. For example, a sorbet-colored chiffon blouse from the '60s can be worn with dark rinse skinny jeans and metallic flats for an interesting modern spin on a vintage piece.
- Trends are fun to implement here and there, but don't fall victim to trends and feel the need to run out and try or buy every single thing you see your favorite music artist wearing. Take inspiration from celebrities you admire, but don't imitate them. It's best to wear one or two trends at a time along with staple classics. For example, a bold maxi print dress works well with a gladiator sandal, but if you also try to cinch the dress with a wide belt and wear a messenger bag, it will be clear you're just piling on trends. Try a trend, and if it doesn't work, move on. After all, they're only clothes and you can always change your mind.
