The big story in fashion this fall is eerily similar to last fall’s main attraction: anything and everything ’80s. This fall departs slightly from the last, however, in that designers are blending Victorian-inspired elements and a rock ‘n’ roll mentality with daring ’80s styles to create a look that couldn’t be more up-to-the-minute.

Form-fitting clothes paired with bold statements via shoes and accessories are the key to looking trendy on campus this fall. Here’s how to look your best in all the top styles.

Tunics are everywhere this season. While some may cringe at the thought of yet another long shirt, a tunic can flatter almost any shape.

Layer them under sweaters, jackets or T-shirts or wear them alone with a belt around your waist or hips. A tunic in a sturdier fabric will skim your curves and give you a slim silhouette.

The only words you need to know in denim this year are ‘skinny jeans.’ While we all cringe at the thought of skin-tight acid wash jeans, skinny jeans are a modern version of the ’80s classic.

Fitted at the ankle, skinny jeans may have the unfortunate effect of making your hips appear wider than they actually are; if that is the case, a pair of boot cut jeans are a classic substitute. With all pants this year, slim-fitting is the way to go.

Leggings are one ’80s trend that almost anyone can wear. While the hosiery was growing in popularity last fall, almost every clothing store now markets footless tights. Wear them beneath a dress or jean skirt to keep your legs warm and stylish as you trek across campus.

Metallic shades are still in style this fall, but they have been toned down from the radioactive-sequin-bag craze that swept the nation last year. Subtle hues of gold, silver and bronze can cleverly enhance any outfit without overpowering it or blinding unsuspecting onlookers. How-ever, it’s probably best to limit yourself to one metal-toned item per ensemble.

Where this year’s style diverges most from last fall’s is in the introduction of lacy, Victorian-inspired elements. Billowy fabrics, lace and ruffles are employed to take the edge off the somewhat harsh ’80s aesthetic that is ruling the runways. Wear lace in moderation as an excess of lace can just look stuffy, not girly.

Grunge is making somewhat of a comeback this fall thanks to a renewed interest in rock ‘n’ roll culture. Designers such as Marc Jacobs are constructing grunge get-ups from very lush fabrics. The trick to looking grunge is to wear smartly oversized clothing, preferably plaid. And layers. Lots of layers.

Be warned, however. What looks like layering to you may look like “bag lady” to everyone else. Try not to get too carried away.

The best way to avoid looking like a fashion victim this fall is to stick by this rule of thumb: for every trendy item of clothing you wear, don at least one ‘classic piece.’

By mixing the trendy with the perpetually cool, you will make sure to always have a look that is just right.

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