Retro - inspired prints and bold plaids are in the spotlight for the 2009 back to school season at College Square Mall. 

            Colors for fall lean toward the darker hues of black, metallics, grays, reds, blues, and purples.   Tweed and leather fabrics are popular this season. All of these colors and textures can be combined with one another to form multiple outfits.  80’s inspired neon’s and splattered prints are still popular fashion trends. Neutral earth tones in browns, greens and rusts form a contrasting palate.

            Teens are mad about plaid this season! The traditional pattern is brought back in bold, bright colors and making a statement in everything from handbags to skirts. More non-traditional patterns such as animal prints, paisley and ethnic inspired motifs will also be popular this season. For the best selection, visit Younkers, Von Maur, Vanity, Christopher and Banks, Hot Topic, Express, and Aeropostale.

            The layered look will continue as an important fashion statement into the fall. Combining basic classic styles with a few of the season’s hottest styles will rejuvenate any wardrobe on a budget.      

Jeans are still a fall staple in teen closets. Nearly all stores are featuring various distressed denim pants as the must-have bottom of the season.  Skinny jeans or a more form fitting jean are in for both girls and guys. Skirts and dress hemlines will primarily be mid-thigh, which means goodbye to the micro-mini skirt for the cool weather ahead. American Eagle, the Buckle, Express, Hot Topic, and Aeropostale have a wide selection to choose from.

Accessories are essential to complement the fall wardrobe. Scarves of every color are a must have this autumn.   Whether they are striped, checkered, animal print or plaid, they create an inexpensive way to renew last year’s styles. Handbags go to extremes with the clutch taking an important role, followed by the staple oversized tote slung over the arm or across the body.  Jewelry shines with extra-large and tiered necklaces and big bangle bracelets. For all your accessory needs, check out Claires, the Buckle, Younkers, and Von Maur.

            Converse high top shoes sporting fun colorful prints and shoelaces are making a comeback from the '80s.  Shoppers can choose colors or patterns for the outside body, inside body, heel stripe, tongue, lining, rubber sidewall, racing stripe, stitch, and laces. Some styles also allow the shoe to be personalized with choice of colors, patterns and name. Stop by Hot Topic to check out their selection of converse shoes.

            Be sure to accent your spring style with fresh new scents from Bath and Body Works.  Top off your look with a manicure and pedicure from Modern Nails.

A casual, less put-together ensemble is one of the hottest looks for boys this year.  Vintage tees and layering are keys to reach this easy-going look.  Pairing patterns like plaids and stripes with graphic images will complete his back to school makeover. Must shop at stores for this look include the Buckle, Express, Younkers, Aeropostale, and Von Maur.

Shoppers can browse and buy the featured fashions now at more than 25 stores located in one convenient indoor location at College Square Mall.