It’s spring, and that means you can recycle your old fall and winter fashions, like a bohemian skirt, and transform them for the changing seasons. Try that skirt as a dress: add a belt and you’re ready for a day in the sun. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
GCM photo by Jillian PekelThe last thing college students want to worry about is money.

Students already have to deal with the pressures of homework, getting to class on time, exams and not falling into the social pressures of happy hour when they should be studying. When it comes to fashion, they don’t want to worry about shelling out this month’s utilities payment to buy new attire.

Lucky for them, a spring wardrobe requires less effort and fewer pieces than an autumn or winter wardrobe. Popular styles from the colder seasons are carrying over into spring, so all you’re going to need is a little creativity.

Jeans are a closet staple. Instead of having separate pieces for separate seasons, just revamp your favorite pair for the warmer weather. Use a pair of scissors and distress the front of the jeans by cutting a small hole and ripping them where you want to get a natural “worn and torn” look.

If you’re really following this season’s trends, you can even buy a pair of used men’s jeans for a second hand store, cut them just above the knee and cuff them á la Katie Holmes. The baggy boyfriend short is a new favorite with celebrities.

 A long bohemian skirt worn with layered sweaters from the fall can be converted into a dress once the weather warms up. As long as the waistband is elastic, you can hike the skirt up and belt it for an above-the-knee frock. Make sure the material has some stretch and the cut is at least slightly A-line so it floats away from your body.

A look that is somewhat unusual to pair with flowy spring fashions is emerging from the ‘90s grunge trend and the ‘60s hippie revival. Don’t be afraid to add a pair of boots to this frock.

“Boots are a trend that could last for more than one season,” said Macomb junior, Katey Pomante. “I’m an avid boot wearer. I’ll wear them with anything from bohemian skirts to a cute pair of daisy dukes.”

Pomante said her fringed boots are comfortable and shouldn’t be overlooked in the spring. The fringe style vividly reflects the ‘60s and ‘70.

It is no surprise that boots are making a comeback; there are many options to choose from.

The slightly masculine trends reflecting bands like Pearl Jam and Nirvana from the ‘90s recession are on the rise too. Spring trends from New York fashion week were even dubbed “recession chic” by Vogue Magazine.

Another take on the ‘60s revival trend from 2008 was the ever-popular casual vest. This trend will be great for spring because it’s lightweight and can easily dress up a plain outfit. What was once worn open and layered over long-sleeved shirts is now being shown as bathing suit cover-ups on www.shopbop.com; a leading site in trendy online shopping. A vest is an easy way to add interest to any outfit.

“I like to reuse the garments I wore in the winter and just embellish them for a new look,” said Rochester Hills senior Liz Moceri. “I recently bought studs from Jo-Ann Fabrics and attached them along the hem of a knit jersey skirt. The skirt is high-waisted and I know that trend will still be popular in the spring, so I’ll be able to wear it.”

DIY (do it yourself) projects are usually easy to do and can save you money. A great web site for DIY fashion is www.Threadbanger.com. The site encourages beginner to advanced DIY-ers to create your own fashions and accessories.

Possibly the easiest way for a spring ensemble to stand out is by using accessories. Spring is a great time to buy new jewelry. Jewelry stands out more with a fair-weathered wardrobe because it won’t be hidden behind bulky sweaters and coats. Usually, jewelry is more budget-friendly than garments.

Spring is the best time to buy statement pieces that can make an outfit. This way you won’t have to try as hard with an outfit and can simply add a large, eye-catching necklace or pair of earrings to catch interest.

Spring has sprung, so make a new statement with your old inspirations.