First and foremost: Fashion is fickle. What is hot on the streets today will most-likely be rejected tomorrow, thus making it increasingly difficult to keep up with the trends. That is why it is important not to spend a lot of money on the clothes that are not likely to stick around.

Elle magazine recently listed the top-10 winter trends, noting leather shirtdresses, plunging V-necklines and corset and strapless looks to be the next big thing. Though not every style off the runways may fit one’s personality, a few key pieces can easily translate to an updated look.

“One point to keep in mind is to not overdo it with a particular trend. A cost-effective measure is to avoid an expensive sweater and go for a scarf or gloves of the similar color or pattern,” said www.style.com in an online article.

Although changes in fashion such as the slimming down of baggy pants and noticeably more form-fitting tops for guys and girls, layering is the key to getting through the chilly Ohio winters. Heavy coats are a must-have this season, but by changing to a wool and shearling coat for guys or girls can give a more fashion-savvy appearance.

Varying colors and patterns are the hot commodity right now, with bright oranges, reds and anything camel-colored.

“Such muted earthy colors as cremes and tans gives a little warmth to the usual black winter wardrobe,” said Catherine Stevens in an online article on www.style.com.

Mixing Burberry plaids with a simple kick-pleat skirt for girls offers a cosmopolitan look. Guys, too, can join in on the retro preppy look with oversized argyle “grandpa” sweaters and corduroy pants. A pair of Adidas shell-toes, Clark’s Wallabees or a pair of Campers can officially complete the ensemble.

A deconstructed laid-back approach to fashion is also hip, with distressed denim or old-school baggy Levi’s. Deep denim carpenter pants are also still very popular among girls and guys. Jeans are straying from the baggy to a straight and lean cut, thus creating a more modern silhouette. Deconstructing denim is the process of bleached, coloring, cutting or otherwise altering the fabric. This also adds a broken-in look with some extra character to plain pair of pants.

“Reverse seams, when seams are on the outside, is huge now.” said Sergio Spitaleri, manager and buyer for Avalon, located a 1434 N. High Street.

Deconstructed hip-huggers are the latest trend for the ladies, with many celebrities opting for the “how-low-can-you-go” approach to denim. But beware of sitting down in class – the creep-factor can become a cause for major distractions. A wide, studded black belt slung low on the hips and a ruffled shirt paired with pointy flats or heels can complete the outfit, meanwhile giving an 80’s flair perfect for going out on the town.

As for girls, go ahead and add an over-the-top element of glitz and glamour to street wear with rhinestones and fake fur. This latest rock-star look, dubbed “ghetto fabulous” was made famous by Madonna in her video “Music,” and on the hit HBO series, “Sex and the City”. Even subtle sequin detailing is still just about everywhere, from J.Crew sweaters to Target gloves. They can give an added sparkle for a hectic day at school or a night-out-on-the-town.

As for guys, it is easy to look chic and fashionable on a limited budget. Mix some classic staples with the right colors and voila, an outfit fit for any runway. Start with flat-front khaki or dark denim jeans, with a dark ribbed sweater or charcoal gray cable-knit sweater. For once, forget about the smelly sneakers and opt for a classic pair of black Kenneth Cole knock-offs or Prada-style loafers.

But a word of advice: Always comparison shop; there is no need to spend an entire week’s paycheck on the first pair of deconstructed Hip-huggers you see – chances are they are in 10 other stores. Look around, note the costs, the fit and the quality.

Vintage can also be inexpensive, so making a new look that won’t kill a student’s budget. Don’t forget about the thrift stores, such as Rag-O-Rama – it’s cheaper than traditional retail, it helps save the environment by recycling clothes and it offers uniquely authentic styles. Also, fashion always comes full circle.

“Anything goes, really, as long as you can pull it off well,” said Lauren Goodburn, manager for Rag-O-Rama, located at 2661 N. High Street. “Celebrities are wearing more vintage clothing, and thrift shopping is becoming more and more mainstream.”

Though digging through racks is prerequisite, vintage fashions offer classic looks, while adding an element sophistication to everyday street wear. Where else is it possible to find a fabulous inexpensive 1950s coat a la Audrey Hepburn?

“The multi-task mixing of designer textures and patterns with flea market discoveries is the way to one-up the mass couture in terms of edge,” said Fashion Icon in an article in their online fashion magazine, located at www.fashion-icon.com.

Unless one has the time to devote towards following the latest runway shows, emulating looks from “Sex and the City” and traveling to various ports-of-call, it can be difficult keeping up with the most fashion-forward trends. But by finding styles and cuts that flatter and being able to wear them confidently, it does not really matter if they are “in” or “out.” So if it is being “ghetto fabulous” or “preppy chic” is your cup-of-tea, by all means, work it. Personal style is just that – feeling good about one’s own fashion flair.