A study guide for back-to-school style

When it comes to fashion trends, the class of 2004 is an eclectic mix.

Cotton Incorporated, a marketing and research organization for the U.S. cotton industry, offers this primer on making the most of mixing and matching:

Layer color, pattern and texture together for an individual look.

Create your own customized T-shirts.

Jazz up denim with interesting washes, finishes and embellishments.

Pair classic cotton shirtings with chunky cableknits.

Use surf, scout and sport-inspired colors and silhouettes for an outdoorsy look.

Wear cargo pants -- with full pockets -- to the mall and leave bags and purses at home.

Add interest with three-dimensional elements, graphic prints, contrast stitching, embroidery and trims.

Embrace vintage-inspired cropped blazers and feminine dresses.

Reintroduce delicate lace, floral motifs and sepia tones into a modern wardrobe.

Create a little romance with capes, shawls, ribbons and bows.