Essentials made fashionable

Aly Schaffer

Many people have items in their lives that are they consider “essential,” and sometimes these things are not the most fashionable. These five essentials have become commonplace in the world of fashion. 

Fanny Packs

One essential that has been seen on college campuses around America is fanny packs. These have been especially popular over spring break. Usually when one thinks of fanny packs, she may think of a mother at an amusement park, but that is not the case anymore.

There are many more fashionable options, including ones with different prints and styles. One type, called a “Roo,” can be worn many different ways other than around the waist. These fanny packs and roos vary in price so many people can find one they can afford.

This trend has even been popular among designers such as Tory Burch, LuLuLemon and Louis Vuitton. They have become a staple because it can hold any items you need and is hands free.

Fanny packs are also closer to your body so it can prevent theft. They seem to come in and out of style frequently so investing in a fanny pack or roo can last you a very long time.

Tennis Shoes

Tennis shoes are something many college students need, and they are becoming more and more fashionable.

Not only are tennis shoes comfortable, they can also come in many bright colors or prints.

The New Balance brand has a style called the 574, which has been seen on countless fashion bloggers this year. This type of tennis shoe is fashionable but still has all the assets of a regular athletic shoe, providing support and comfort.

Tennis shoes have a wide range of styles and prices, so there is no doubt you will be able to find the ones that are right for you.

The best part about tennis shoes is that they are always in style, there are color and style trends that come each year but a good, classic tennis shoe will last you many years.

Fitbit

Along with tennis shoes, another essential that college men and women could take advantage of is a Fitbit. A Fitbit is a wristband worn to track sleeping patterns, number of steps in a day, calories burned and still functioning as a watch.

Nike makes a similar device called a FuelBand, which does many of the same things.

Although these might not be essential to all people, the fitness lifestyle trend is growing and so is the need for these wristbands.

The Fitbit also comes with an app one can use to track eating habits and water consumption, encouraging people to take a look at the things they are putting into their bodies.

This gadget is still a tad pricey as it is a relatively new trend, but there is no denying it can be essential to any fitness junkie.

Ponytail Holder

Those with relatively long hair know hair ties or ponytail holders are an essential to daily life.

Hair ties have definitely evolved throughout the years — many women remember ones with metal in them.

Once those went out of style, a plain black or brown with no metal was trendy. Now, there is a new kind, and it might be the most functional yet.

The new “ribbon” hair tie has no metal in it, but it is also not usually a plain color. The ribbon hair tie can be found in many prints and colors.

The biggest benefit to this new style is it does not leave a crease in hair once removed.

Not only are these great for your hair, they can be worn around the wrist as an accessory, that way you always have one with you. This new hair tie is around the same price as normal ones.

Camo Print

This trend can be used in a variety of ways. Usually camo print can be divided into three different categories: the “Army” print, which is pixilated and usually tan colored; the “woodland” print, which is basically real camouflage and has real leaves, sticks and trees on it and lastly, the “fashionable” print. This print looks like it is painted on and can have brushstrokes.

The easiest way to incorporate camo into your wardrobe is to make it the focal point of an outfit and pair it with a neutral pair of pants or a neutral jacket.

This trend can be essential to all kinds of people and can range over many different price points. It’s easy to take this trend too far — such as camo print wedding and prom dresses — but when done right on a pair of skinny jeans or jacket this can look just as classy as any other print.