Stroll down the corridors of any happening college and you are bound to witness loads of youngsters dressed up in their best attire, chatting up with friends or hurriedly exchanging notes. Bright blues and baby pinks, sporty jackets and bandannas, buzzing cell phones and hot dogs in hand. A scene straight out of an Archie comic book, these wannabe Veronica Lodges and Reggie Mantles spend loads of time and money to secure the hippest look in the college. And of course, there are also the Betty Coopers who always believe in crafting their own creations to stay on par with the rest of the group.

Well, way back, Riverdale had its own set of problematic teens like Veronica splurging on designer ensembles. But teens today, have not significantly changed in their thinking when it comes to trendy clothing. This is the age, when ‘looking good’ is of utmost importance. New friendships and the need to be accepted in different groups and cultures sometimes make the teens, conscious of their look and behavior.

A lot of meticulous planning is required for a trendy teen wardrobe to match the various mood swings, a teen could probably have. There is nothing worse than having a wardrobe filled with things one may really not wear. Therefore, before you shop, take a stock of what is currently wearable in your closet and how the new additions would actually help in enhancing them. If you have too many Tees, you can do without the cute, lil’ sporty one on the rack. Pass it on for great jacket maybe, to break the monotony!

Some basics in trendy teen clothing:
Vintage Blue jeans:
Jeans are actually the next skin for all teenyboppers. And when they are blue, they are a sure hit with the crowds. The best thing about a good pair of denims is that they need not always be crisp and new. An old pair has the entire attitude if it has a faded stonewashed look. A few threads here and there, adds your own signature style to it. Once you know your problem areas, you can take your pick from stretch, skinny leg jeans, boot cuts, baggy jeans (on the lines of a cargo), Capris etc. Blue, black, streaked or bleached, your jean can be worn to college or toned down with a basic white shirt for that campus interview.

Jumpers/Sweaters:
Ideal for both young gals as well as guys, jumpers can keep you warm on a chilly morning and can be worn over a tee or teamed with a shirt. Available in solid colors or patterns, jumpers offer a snug fit without really being uncomfortably tight. A perfect match for your blue pair of jeans, look for one with different cuts and lines. A cowl neck, a deep V-neck or a flexible neck that can be manipulated into an off-shoulder in delicious ruby reds or sober beiges and browns can sure turn the heads of many. Basic colors like blue, black or brown would enable you to combine your jumper with different outfits as compared to its striped counterparts, which would limit the use of it.

Flirty skirts:
Worn long or short, skirts are a staple item in any fashion-conscious teens closet. Micro minis gave a huge ego boost to the gals who dared to be a little rebellious. Providing to be an instant way to get that date for the prom night, the less adventurous combined them with bright pink or basic black leggings and short tankers, so as not to be left behind. Apart from micros, the tube skirt is also a very basic item, which is figure hugging, and can have different looks as required. For gals who are conscious of their tights, an A-line cut for the skirt would work wonders. It can fit you snugly at the waist and fall down softly, just below the knees. Leggy lasses can go in for the asymmetrical kind, with a tapered point on one side.

Dainty Dresses:
No prom night could ever be complete without that dream dress that would make you feel like a Princess, in search for her Prince Charming. A basic black dress would be a blessing in disguise when you have to go party hopping. If knee length, it looks great with jeans or leggings. For those having a few extra bucks, dresses can go beyond black in bold reds or naughty pinks Plunging necklines and backless outfits are a huge no-no if you really are on the heavier side. In fact, you can have a toned down yet attractive look, with an off shoulder dress or combine the low necked piece with a classy shrug or stole. Leggy gals can sport short numbers.

Some ways to accentuate your outfit:

• Big studded, metallic belts, chunky jewelry, short-cropped jackets or shrugs, bright knapsacks that are generous on space, trendy, sporty caps or even a wristband can go a long way to define your attitude through your clothes.
• If you love it, rip it. Simply pick your old denims and start getting creative. Cut it at the bottom and gently pull out the threads to keep the frayed look. Or cut the fabric at different places for strategically placed holes. Get an artist friend to do some graffiti on your denim instead of your neighbor’s walls.
• Solid colored or striped leg warmers can be worn to your college over your regular pants. The best thing about this item is that it can be made at home. It could even go all the way up to your knees. The sporty look can definitely be brought into the classroom.
• Get a plain white shirt and if you are good at painting, finalize a design and paint it with your own little hands. A butterfly, a rose or even your favorite rock star can transform any basic white shirt or T-shirt into a masterpiece.

Trendy teen clothing has no limitations in terms of creativity. Do limit your expenditure though and be innovative without breaking into your piggy bank. This is the time when you can really experiment with different styles for different occasions- be it a field day at college a fun trip or even a rocking party. Keep your tastes simple, but aim for the best!