By Jasmine Proctor (Contributor) – Email
Print Edition: January 30, 2013
When the whole stud trend started, I internally cringed. What was this, some kind of punk rock fad trying to make a comeback? Never in a million years would those sharp objects grace the fabrics of my clothing, I thought. But people, as you know, often have changes of heart.
Much to my disbelief though, the trend has sucked me in. I don’t really know when it happened, to be honest. Perhaps it was the first pair of studded loafers I laid eyes on, when I saw how well the spikes looked on my favourite style of shoe. I really don’t remember. All I know is that inevitably I fell in love, slowly but surely.
Like most people out there, I didn’t think I could ever pull the look off. What if people thought I was trying too hard or, dare I say, hipster? Not that there is anything wrong with being hipster. The idea just scared me, to the point where I would fawn over beautiful button-ups but never actually muster up the courage to buy one. How much was too much? How would I style it?
These questions and more have not only stopped me, but countless others from wearing studs.
Why are we so afraid though? Take the plunge! Try it out! Once you do, there is no turning back.
When it comes to styling them, don’t go overboard. Out of experience, I can tell you that this is easily done. If you already have a pair of studded shoes and a studded shirt, refrain from putting on that studded headband or bracelet – it’s too much. Less is most definitely more. The best way to start out is little by little, adding a small amount into your wardrobe at a time. Try a pair of shoes. This is probably the easiest, most basic way to wear studs, and it virtually works for everyone. It won’t make your outfit completely rebellious, it will just add a little bit of an edge to it. Or, if you’re more adventurous, a button-up with studded collars could do the trick. There are so many options when you’re willing to look and try it out. You don’t have to go all in. Just keep it basic. The studs are meant to be fun and creative, so don’t try too hard when attempting to incorporate them into an outfit.
With that all being said, perhaps we should dive into what options are out there when it comes to studded attire. I am not lying when I say that you can find virtually anything with studs on it right now. If you hit up the right stores, you are bound to hit the jackpot: shirts, pants, shoes, bags, hats, accessories. You name it and it’s out there. For in store retail, definitely try Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, H&M and Topshop (though, they can be a bit pricy). All of these stores have an amazing selection to choose from, and are decently priced.
If you want to get the look, but you’re tight on cash, DIYing your studs is an awesome alternative. Not only does it allow you to add just the amount of embellishing you want, it also allows you to make your clothing completely unique. Places like Ebay have an assortment of bulk studs that you get can ridiculously cheap, and YouTube has dozens of tutorials to take you step-by-step through the DIY process.
So why not try it out? It can definitely shake you out of those winter blues and add a little pop to your outfits.
