The simple answer is: It’s complicated. I find that guys tend to only notice the extremes. If you roll out of bed and into class, you’ll probably be met with a warm “You look tired…” from that dude who always sits one seat away from you. On the other hand, if you strut into your 8am in a pair of stilettos, you’re trying way too hard and that can be just as much of a turn-off. It sounds weird, but you want him to not notice the effort you put forth—just that you’re a well put-together individual.
Now, I’m not about to recite a verse of “That’s What Makes You Beautiful,” but you’re better off keeping it simple. A shower in the morning, simple make-up and a cohesive outfit probably won’t get you the kind of outright positive attention you’re looking for, but trust me, he knows you look good.
That being said, no outfit is complete without one thing: Confidence. Honestly, if you walk around like you look good, you will look good. Even the hottest of dresses can look luke-warm if you don’t own it. Walk across campus with your head up. If you’re feeling bold, smile at a guy you think is cute. Chances are, he’ll remember you. Nothing’s more romantic than when I guy comes up to you at a mixer and says “I feel like I’ve seen you around.”
Admittedly, there are about a million things more romantic, but this is college and we take what we can get, right? I guess what I’m trying to say is, don’t sweat it. There are dozens of things more worth worrying about than impressing a guy. Chances are, once you stop obsessing over it, good things will happen.
5 Ways To “Not Sweat It”
- Your bubbly self says “Hey!” to a guy with a big smile, and he hits you with the head nod? Don’t sweat it. Guys are simple creatures; a head nod is worth a thousand hey’s.
- Your guy didn’t notice your new dress/haircut/accessory? Don’t sweat it. He noticed, he’s just not about to drop that bravado to tell you “That’s pretty.”
- You were talking to that guy, and now he’s talking to her? Don’t sweat it. Make sure you know the situation before freaking out—he’s allowed to talk to his friends.
- You did something embarrassing in front of that guy you like? Don’t sweat it. Get him to laugh about it. If you can’t do that, do you really want a guy who’ll think less of you for your awkwardness? (Hint: you don’t)
- You didn’t reach that goal you set for yourself? Don’t. Sweat. It. First of all, make sure any goal you set for yourself is realistic. Secondly, give it time. Whether it pertains to academics or your social life, you’re only human. You got this.