While studying in London this summer was fantastic, I was really taking most of my notes mentally, on the street. London style is quirky and unique; mixing Doc Martens with floral dresses for example-something I had not seen before. The funny thing is that look did not look weird at all; it was completely alluring in an odd way. While I would never want to copy the style of cool Brits (I would probably end up looking like an idiot), I did interpret a couple key pieces that can easily be weaved into any student's wardrobe (think Alexa Chung over Camilla Parker Bowles). The first piece that Londoners love and that can be added to any outfit is a hat. I know, big hats may come to mind when you first think of what the Brits wear, and there were plenty of monstrosities sitting on heads at Royal Ascot, but the quotidian cap of choice is the fedora. Women and men alike wear the fedora in a straw version for summer. The classic has a black band to contrast the straw and to add simple elegance. While I interpreted this hat as a fashion statement, it is also very useful for blocking the sun's rays. As the weather starts to change here at Brandeis, a cloth or felt fedora could additionally help keep your head warm. For all those male 'Deisans reading this, it is time to venture out and try something other than a baseball cap if that is the only thing you ever put on your head. Perhaps the fedora will give you a Johnny Depp feeling of cool. Slid over one eye, it even adds a touch of sexy mystery.

The second adaptation of a London look is yet another accessory: socks! Socks are not just for sneakers anymore. Socks are a fashion statement. Remember those cute, ruffled socks you wore in Kindergarten? Well, I kid you not, they are back again. (See, everything in fashion eventually comes back, and we are seeing that during our lifetime). Well, dainty socks in pastel colors look fabulous with feminine pumps and sandals, but they also add a girly flair to edgier boots or with menswear-inspired flats. The socks can fold over at the ankles, but they can also go as high as your thighs. The ruffles and lace are just adorable and they are sold cheap at stores like Primark in London, adapted from the Christian Dior runway. Socks like this can be found anywhere in the states; you just might have to look a little harder for them the next time you are in the mall.

Rugged, lace-up boots are the perfect contrast to your delicate socks, whether they are lace or shimmery. Rugged boots exude confidence. When you put them on, you feel like you are going to accomplish something. While they are not for everyone's tastes, they can act as a statement piece. Great for all weather conditions, a pair of rugged boots will last through all the rain and snow at Brandeis. They are also great for adding height without being obvious (most boots pack a bit of a heel, but not in the, "Hi, I'm wearing Louboutin" manner).

If you would rather focus your statement north of your feet, a pop of color on the mouth is essential when trying to achieve a London look. No, this is not the English-rose look; this is the louder version. Much louder. A bright red lip with orange undertones was all over London, whether I was riding the tube or at work. Perhaps it is a rainy day, you are feeling drab and just want to curl up in your bed. A swipe of red lipstick will do the trick, as long as it is super noticeable and bright. You will not end up looking like a clown if done right. Tone down the red of your makeup, or don't wear any at all; just lips. Not only does dark lipstick brighten your face, it makes your teeth look whiter too. I learned a tip from a beauty assistant with whom I ate lunch while completing my internship: use a warm washcloth to slough off any dead skin cells you may have on your lips, lightly pat dry, then apply a lip balm or salve prior to the lipstick application. It will glide on and not look flaky. The whole point is to make your lips look vibrant and healthy, not crusty with color. As fall approaches, try a purple or mauve undertone to the traditional red lipstick for a luscious look.

London is full of beautiful people, as most cities are. However, there is a distinctive London cool that really is enticing. London cool isn't about being decked out in couture or showing tons of skin; Londoners create balance in their looks. Pulling off a London look in the states isn't about having what they have. Try taking a cue from them, and see what you come up with.