Back to School Fashion Don’ts

We’ve all heard the cliché: you have to make a good first impression. And during your first few weeks of college, that’s probably on your brain when you’re getting dressed for those dreaded 8 a.ms. But beware: the 40 Acres is not a runway. Standard wear includes Nike shorts, oversized T-shirts and Sperry Topsiders – not exactly the most fashion-forward attire. In order to make a good impression, think past the normal college wardrobe, but don’t overdo it. Here are the five items you should avoid so you don’t become “that girl” in your biology lab.

1. Heels: While there are a few exceptions to the rule, generally, heels are entirely impractical for the long haul to class. In addition to the hills Austin is famous for, the majority of UT auditoriums offer claustrophobic rows of seats, making it a tight squeeze for any heels over one inch high. And let’s face it: heels often scream “trying too hard.” Reserve your favorite wedges for a super special occasion – and a super short walk.
2. Hotpants: Thanks to Ke$ha, hotpants have apparently come back in style. They don’t have to be leather to qualify – ill-fitting jean shorts are honestly just as bad. Too-tight or showy shorts make you look heavier than you actually are, and who wants that? It also makes that hour and a half English class so much more uncomfortable – for everyone. So think twice before stepping out in curve-hugging bottoms. You’ll be glad you did.
3. Strapless tops and dresses: We all know the Austin heat will be unbearable for the next few months, and baring your arms and shoulders may seem like the best cool-off alternative to showing up to class in your bikini. (Which is a major don’t!). Let me let you in on a little secret: UT buildings, despite the outside temp, are often FREEZING. So unless you’re willing to show off some un-sexy Goosebumps, pack a light cardigan in your tote or backpack. Or just simply opt out of strapless numbers for class.
4. Pajama Pants: At the other end of the spectrum, we have the girl who isn’t trying hard enough. As much as you love your Longhorn pj’s, if you wouldn’t have worn them in high school, you shouldn’t wear them now. There’s no way you’ll land a campus cutie wearing shapeless plaid pants that you probably slept in the night before. I’m all for rolling out of bed and heading to class, but this is a bit extreme. Swap for black yoga pants – a much classier version of the pajama pant.
5. Too much perfume: Chanel No. 5, Viva La Juicy, Miss Dior Cherie. There are a million flirty, sexy, seductive or fresh scents to choose from, depending on your mood. We know you love your signature scent, but that doesn’t mean the person sitting next to you does! Yes, you’ll be sweaty and gross for the next few months, but overcompensating with the perfume bottle is not the solution. You’ll just suffocate your neighbor, and tip your classmates off to the fact that you’re trying too hard. Stick to the basics: a simple spritz on the neck and wrists is sufficient to give you a scentsational appeal.