Buy your own gifts for a fashion-forward Black Friday

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Thanksgiving is not yet upon us, but everyone is already looking to Black Friday and the holiday shopping rush that will soon ensue. Whether your list of friends and family to buy presents for is short or long, there is one person you shouldn’t forget — yourself!

Who cares if you’ve been naughty or nice this year? You’ve made it through Fall Quarter, and that is reason enough to treat yourself to a token of your own affection.

Maybe you just want to go home and reap the benefits of home cooking and Christmas presents. However, don’t count on Aunt Matilda to buy you a stylish new winter ensemble. Predictable as she is, you can count on receiving yet another scratchy woolen sweater — homemade, of course — that is two sizes too small.

Unless your mom is a designer for Marc Jacobs, buying yourself a Christmas present may be your best bet. If you still have any of your savings left over after those late-night takeout binges during midterm season, invest in some fashion staples to keep you trendy all winter long. For some shopping guidelines, follow these new trends and you’ll be sure to impress.

Michaela Jones, stylist at Gavin, a boutique located at 1939 Central Street, gives us the scoop on four of winter’s hottest trends.

Sparkles and sequins
Sequins and anything sparkly are huge, particularly sequined jackets. We found two that will have you channeling the star power of Michael Jackson in his prime.

On the left: Torn by Ronny Kobo – sequined blazer – $440 (Buy it at Gavin)

On the right: BB Dakota – $85 (Buy it at Gavin).
Vibrant colors
Whether it’s tops, shoes or accessories, bold colors are an easy way to make a statement. These two tops are fun options that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

On the left: Kimberly Taylor – Selena Boyfriend Tee – $220 (Buy it at Gavin)

On the right: Gap – Featherweight Waffle Crew – $19.50 (Buy it at Gap)

Tunic tees
The comfy and casual choice of every college student. Easy to throw over leggings and boots. Fun graphics or a daring cut add a unique twist to an otherwise standard outfit.

On the left: American Apparel – Sheer Rib Short Sleeve Tunique – $36 (Buy it at American Apparel)

On the right: Sauce – Skeleton Graphic Tee – $83 (Buy it at Gavin)
Bold, chunky jewelry
When it comes to jewelry, be brave and err on the side of too much this season. These necklaces are sure to captivate your audience and give you an extra boost of confidence.

On the left: Vera Wang’s Lavender Label – Red Necklace – $175 (Buy it at Gavin)
On the right: Francesca’s Collections – Phoenix Wreath Necklace – $18 (Buy it at Francesca’s Collections)

It’s perfectly healthy and oh-so-gratifying to splurge on yourself every once in a while, but there are a few points to consider. Will you wear this piece often? Could you see yourself wearing it five (or 10) years from now? Is it a truly one-of-a-kind piece that will set you apart from the crowd? If you answered yes to any of these questions, give yourself permission to pull out the plastic.