Everyone knows that sweatshirts, yoga pants, and sneakers are a common part of the designated “uniform” of a collegiette. Athleisure quickly became a fashion term for reason after all. But as a girl who always wore heels to class in high school, I found myself wary. Would I be sucked into the trend? Was getting gussied up for class really that easy to fall out of? But after only a week on UCF’s campus I realized that incredible, individualized style mixed with function is abundant for Lady Knights (and even Guy Knights for that matter!)
So if you hid away your cute booties or off the shoulder blouses for the sake of fitting in, here are seven tips to let your inner fashionista shine once again.
1. Wear what you feel most comfortable in.
First and foremost, never let anyone tell what you should wear especially if it makes you uncomfortable. You’re the one wearing the clothes, not anyone else. Tight skirts make your skin crawl? Try a flattering circle or A-line skirt. Stilettos make you walk like Bambi? Try kitten heels or wedged sandals.
2. Don’t be afraid to play with patterns.
Plaid, paisley, checkered, striped, etc. There are so many prints out there that you’re bound to find one you like if you’ve ever considered giving them a try. Paisley is great for girls with a serious feminine streak, stripes are always flattering, and plaid…plaid’s just awesome especially with fall (slowly) approaching.
3. Heels, and sneakers, and flats, oh my!
In the words of Carrie Bradshaw, “Men, I may not know, but shoes, shoes I know.” There are so many different styles of shoes out there that there is bound be at least one type that you find yourself drawn to. When picking shoes keep practical and pick kinds that you already know you can handle. Going too wild might result in bruised and battered feet and no one wants that.
4. Simple isn’t always #basic.
If a t-shirt and jeans, or sweater and skirt speaks to you, go for it. Some of the most well put together outfits are made up of simple and inexpensive pieces. They can also be worn in so many different of ways, that you could wear the same outfit twice in a row and only the keenest of fashionista would even notice. But they won’t be judging, they’ll be applauding.
5. Get personal with personal style!
This is my favorite tip! Your style translates to the world who you are and even how you’re feeling that particular day, so it’s imperative that it communicates the message you want. The best way to go about this tip is to look at your own closet and check for repetitions, i.e. lots of black and little to no color, or various crop tops but few with long sleeves. We’re creatures of habit so we tend to buy what we like. If a piece looks completely out of place, has no sentimental value, and you haven’t worn it in a while, donate or toss it.
6. A is for Accessorize!
Accessories can make or break an outfit. Wearing none at all can sometimes make even the cutest ensemble bland, or wearing too much can result in eyes darting around your outfit and not knowing where to look. Accessorizing is a delicate factor that depends on the personality and outfit. If your more bohemian, fun earrings and layered necklaces with natural themes and colors will work wonders for a tank and maxi skirt combo. If simple chic is more your speed, a single necklace, bracelet, and some classy diamond earring would probably compliment your style best.
7. Most importantly: be yourself!
No one knows you better than you know yourself and no one can be a better you than you. Fashion is one of the few subjective factors in our lives and rarely will two people agree on every trend. If you’re looking to change your style, go right ahead. But if you know what works for you, stick to it and work it like no other.
Fashion is about expression, so express yourself!
Photo credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
EDITED BY JJ