The buzz surrounding hipsters has been monumental here at College Magazine (evident here, here, and here) – and it got us thinking: what is a hipster, really? There are countless “hipster” varieties, from the grungy boho hipster to the nerdy cardigan-obsessed hipster.
But seeing as we make an effort to be fashion-savvy, we asked the creative team behind Kembrel how they would define the modern, fashionable hipster.Kembrel’s head buyer, Alison Kalafut explains: “Hipsters are fashion-forward, alert to trends and aren’t afraid to take risks.” At Kembrel, they feature hipster brands for college students including Lifetime Collective, BB Dakota and Life After Denim.
“Hipster” fashion is largely comprised of items that are not conventionally fashionable. It’s all about reinvention and individuality. And how does one turn “hipster” into chic? Thinkskinny jeansfrom Seven for All Mankind. Unexpected colors like mustard yellow, fuschia, and teal. Chunky statement necklaces – layered together. Thigh-high tights. Oversized cardigans. Sequin bow ties – and not just on boys.
Kembrel offers a huge selection of hipster items for guys, including soft fairisle sweaters from Life After Denim and sporty henleys by Lifetime Collective. Wear them with deep red or green pants and shirts for contrast, and add some geek-chic loafers to take the look a step further.
For the girls, BB Dakota offers dresses and separates; the khaki “Troy” jacket ($45) and lace “Faith” dress ($95) below work for nearly any occasion and add edge to your style. Try the jacket with colored denim and statement jewelry to make it pop. To tone down the fancy dress, throw on a denim shirt and retro low-top Converse.
And then there’s Suzabelle, the hottest new line on Kembrel. We took a peek through their lookbook and found more than a few ensembles we would like to see hanging in our closet:
As you plan to spend all that Christmas and Hanukah money on a spring semester wardrobe, think hipster chic. Did we mention Kembrel’s offering College Magazine readers an exclusive 25% discount? Use the code “COLLEGEMAG” at kembrel.com and define your inner hipster. Once you have the look, enter the contest and win a $500 shopping spree on Kembrel.