The Lesbian Lion

Back-to-School Style Survival Guide

It's that time again! We're doing our back-to-school shopping and making plans for the busy year ahead. All of it can be overwhelming with everything that needs to get done and you might not even know where to start. This Back-to-School Style Survival Guide will show you the way in what to pick and what to nix for the upcoming year all without breaking the bank (everything below is under $35!) So, ladies, with your style guide in hand, let's hit the sales and prepare for an awesome new school year!

From left: Bandolino Rani Flat Sandal ($34.95), Fergalicious Echo Pump ($24.94), Rock & Candy Boatie Boat Shoe ($29.95)

Shoes can make or break your look so make sure to pick out chic pairs that are not only fabulous but super versatile! You can't go wrong with metallics, they go with everything, but when it comes to color and print it's not as scary as you might think. This sassy pair of pumps can be worn with a summery dress or a comfy pair of jeans, or even a pencil skirt! These minty boat shoes add a feminine touch to outfits while still being super comfortable for running to class. With these fabulous picks you'll be happy to leave the flip-flops at home.

From left: ECI Mitered-Stripe Dress ($24.15), Shirred High-Low Dress ($24.80), Vibrant Tribal Print Shift Dress ($29.80)
There's really nothing easier than throwing on a dress before heading out the door in morning--it's an instant outfit. What's not to love? For the school year, make a lasting impression in bold colors and flirty prints. The blue mitered-stripe print will not only draw attention but accentuate your fabulous curves in the most flattering way and who doesn't want that? Go bold with this eye-catching high-low dress. Pair it with a studded belt and heels at night or a casual woven belt and a denim jacket during the day! This little tribal print number requires no accessories for day but turn it up with some long necklaces and bangles for night--totally easy.

From left: Animal Print High-Low Top ($15.80), Studded Mesh Peplum Top ($22.80), Ikat & Mesh Crop Top ($17.80)
Wow with a top that makes a statement this year. Animal prints are forever in and this top can be worn with anything from jean shorts to a black pencil skirt! Studded designs make this second top a showstopper, it'll be your new go-to for days when you're feeling like a little edge. Louder than the rest, this crop top is for those who want to take a fashionable walk on the wild side. Pair it with a skater skirt for a flirty look!

From left: Striped Short-Shorts ($19.95), Distressed Denim Shorts ($24.95), Quilted Skirt ($24.95)
Obviously no outfit is complete without your bottom half so pull the look together with these versatile pieces. Go casual with these striped short-shorts and a comfy baseball tee or dress it up with a bold-colored peplum top and a statement necklace! Leather is always super chic and this skirt can rock it anywhere--hitting the town or a day at the office. And when all else fails... there's the classic distressed denim shorts to save the day! Wear them with any of the above tops in Step 3!

From left: Jersey Shirt ($17.95), Essential Striped Racerback Tank ($10.80), Sports Top ($14.95), Sports Pants ($17.95), Short Sport Shorts ($12.95), Sports Leggings ($24.95)
If you're going to go the super casual route, don't sacrifice your style! The key to sporting these comfy pieces is making sure they're not too loose and baggy. Fit is always the most important thing--even when wearing pieces like the ones above! You don't want to be swallowed up by your clothes so pair loose tops with more fitted bottoms and vice versa.

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