Gossip Girl is a prime time soap opera following the social elite high schoolers of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The show airs on the CW Network, and to be honest, it is a bit racy for its targeted teen audience. However, the language and everyday looks of these stylish students have taken over teen dressing in a major way.

The prep school plaid, fitted or flouncy school girl skirts and accessories straight out of Vogue are the trend du jour for today’s teens. This powerful Gossip Girl trend isn’t just available at high end boutiques its characters Blair and Serena can afford; it is now accessible to everyone across the nation thanks to retailers like JC Penny, Old Navy and Macy’s.

In sticking with the Gossip Girl chic, tweens and teens should own a pair of solid color tights or leggings to compliment and cover under a plaid mini. Even if you don’t attend private school you can get a regulation private school skirt at Kmart. If you’re into Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects, go to town on cutting and fraying hemlines. Add lacy fabrics to the bottom of garments and generally aim to make the most of your wardrobe.

For tops, stick to V-neck sweaters in rich colors like purple and hunter green. A button-down shirt under a V-neck vest is a great look even over a properly fitted pair of jeans. An argyle print will win big. Emblems and crests are way cool and a riding jacket, preferably with white piping and gold buttons, can be purchased at Forever 21 for less than $30. As for accessories, a quick trip to Target will have you spending little green for some key pieces, like costume pearls adorned with black bows and Chanel-inspired chain-link gold.

Keep it simple and age appropriate. With these looks you’ll get the fashion stamp of approval from B and S.

Jess Zaino competed for the title of top celebrity stylist on VH-1’s Glam God. She is the host of Modern Girls Guide to Life on the Style Network, a trend host for the HSN and can be found at www.jess-zaino.com.