So, you’re about to embark on a new journey as a college freshie. Or maybe, you’re returning back to school after a refreshing summer of pool dates and Netflix nights. Either way, you’re almost ready to start a new academic year with promising grades and a new attitude toward life.
You've got it figured out until you’re starting to pack for school and you forget the most important influence to a new you: your new wardrobe.
There’s no mystery to the saying, “when you look good, you feel good.” Having a positive mindset toward a new school year can be the difference between late-night panic attacks and waking up early to start your coffee for a bright, new day in front of you. Dressing for success can alter your energy for the day and the way you approach people and new ideas for the upcoming week.
Before you start your first week of classes, take an opportunity to evaluate your wardrobe and the "new you." Does the "new you" reflect your current style? Before you make any irrational decisions, let’s talk about what it means to dress for success as a college student and what it means for a brighter, more intuitive you.
The first week of school is all about first impressions – meeting your professors and peers for the first time. You want to leave an unforgettable impression that you’re here to conquer campus and leave your mark. What better way to show that than with your style?
You’ll want to wear something casual and maybe add a little glam if you’re extra like me. Light wash jeans, bedazzled shorts, a ''Clueless'' inspired skirt – anything you’re comfortable in that you can imagine yourself wearing and proudly discussing where you picked it up from.
Although there isn’t really a dress code, feel free to wear your favorite tank top or keep it super simple with a short or long-sleeve blouse! Whether it's a classic white v-neck or a floral bodysuit, ask yourself which one you would wear for a day out to the mall. Grab a necklace and pair it with a few bracelets to complete the outfit! Adding accessories can lift your style from simple to detailed chic in seconds. Be sure to match your gold necklace with gold bracelets or match silver with silver.
When it comes to shoes, don’t kill your feet! Especially if you live on a big campus or have to walk from building to building in less than 10 minutes – it’s a death wish and you’ll thank me later. Stick to print flats, classic adidas sneakers, small pump booties or if the weather permits, wear those cute sandals you bought over the summer! Try your shoes out before the big day to see if they still fit and make sure you’ll be able to walk in them for at least more than two hours. You'll find yourself walking a lot more with the amount of errands you'll end up having by the first week.
Congratulations, you’re now college bait! Don’t be afraid to show off your school spirit and buy some cute tee’s and sweatshirts from your bookstore. You’ll be surprised to see how many people wear their college gear on a daily basis. It’s festive with little thought, yet it's casual enough to go to class and even the gym after!
When it comes to your handy dandy backpack, the classic two-strap will suffice to alleviate any back pain you may have from your textbook buildup. I, personally, carry a tote around from Scoutbags.com ($39) because they manage to keep all my shenanigans in place including my laptop. They contain several pockets, and the designs online are to die for. I would definitely check them out if you’re on the hunt for a new school bag and you’re a tote kind of person.
Lastly, dressing for success means preparing for any and all situations. Keep this list in mind and evaluate anything you may want to bring with you to class as you walk to and from your dorm room/apartment.
- Headphones for the walk to class
- Gum to keep you focused: it’s good for stimulation, but don’t be a loud chewer!
- Your wallet and school I.D
- Pads/tampons: you never know whose life you might save!
- A snack just in case you have back to back classes and can’t make it to the dining hall.
- Finally, deodorant and perfume. It may sound strange at first, but on incredibly hot days and long walks, you might find yourself needing some as you head to the bathroom before class. As you walk through the bathroom door, mist yourself with some body spray to get a fresh, sweet smell.
I hope you take my list and spin it to the best version for yourself. Of course, as you get adjusted to college, you’ll find out what’s best for you and what’s best to simply leave in your room.
Take my fashion advice with a grain of salt and be you. You’ll find friends right away for just being yourself, and you might get some compliments here and there throughout the day for adding that extra glam to your natural shine.
Have an amazing first week of classes. I know you’ll do amazing. The Beauty Community and The Rotunda are here to help you stay up to date with school news and beauty trends. xoxo
