Back-to-school look

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The days of lounging by the pool and other summertime diversions are over. In August, back-to-school shopping goes to the top of the to-do list.

Fall trends might play a part in fashion choices for students heading back to high school and college, but retailers who cater to young buyers say unique pieces can help reflect their personalities. And there are plenty of options out there, in the big-name chains and in smaller boutiques.

Melanie Williams, owner of a boutique called The Black Market in Lexington, Ky., said the search for a unique look doesn't necessarily start in high school.

Williams describes her own style as a combination of the popular and the eclectic. "I take the trends and mix it with my style," she said.

Round-toed shoes and flats to wear around campus are some of her favorite looks, along with vintage-style jewelry.

At General Eccentric, Keri Howard said young buyers with not a lot of cash want their purchases to be as versatile as possible. With a long top, for instance, "You can dress it up and dress it down, throw a belt on and add jewelry," Howard said.

If you want to follow a trend but stick with a classic, then go for denim. Skinny jeans, Howard said, are still around, but one of the newest silhouettes is the fuller and more tailored trouser cut.

Skirts also have more volume. And affordable accessories are an easy way to update a wardrobe.

Bright colors and texture are among the trends for fall shoes, said Eileen Lewis, director of fashion strategy for Zappos.com.

For men, graphic tees have long been a staple, and there is an amazing variety of designs out there.

Lexington native Whit Hiler co-founded Attus Apparel in 2006 with his friend, Jered Garrison of Seattle. He already has scored a story in the New York Times for his Shot Up Shirts, distressed by shotgun blasts. Tamer tastes might prefer the selection of polos with embroidered insignias ($54), including the mohawked Sid and the snowboarding Thresher. You'll find them at www.attusapparel.com.

Mixing familiar labels with not-too-pricey indie designs and vintage finds, students can experiment to find their own style to stand out from the crowd.