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5 Ways To Make it Look Like You Tried In The Fall

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at JMU chapter.

We get it. It’s cold. But not only is it cold, it’s inconsistently cold. You wake up and you feel like you’re in the arctic, but after your first class you’re sweating in your thick sweater. In this four-season-a-day time of the year, it’s even harder to put in actual effort when you’re getting dressed. Here’s a few quick tips for how to look like you tried a little when you honestly rolled out of bed.

1. Cardigan + dress + high socks

The best thing about dresses is the lack of pants. Throw on a transition-weather dress, some warm socks that you can roll up or down, and your favorite big cardigan and you’re ready to handle all four of those seasons.

2. High waisted jeans + sweater
This is a personal favorite of mine. My high waisted jeans are one of my most worn items, because you can really wear it with anything. I’ve worn mine with a kids size Chicago t-shirt with a hot dog on it, even. You can dress it up or down, just (once again) grab that sweater for the cold morning.

3. Rolled jeans + ankle boots
I’m a big fan of ankle boots. Whether they’re oxford, doc martens or just your average lace-ups, the right pair of shoes can make any outfit look like you’ve been planning it for days. Pair them with your most comfortable jeans rolled at the ankles and virtually any shirt for the complete look.

4. Lipstick with anything
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a firm believer that lipstick can work miracles. I wouldn’t put it past myself to throw on some lipstick with sweatpants, honestly. Not quite feeling what you threw on in the morning? Apply some red if you’re feeling in-charge, purple if you’re feeling bold, or a light pink for just a pop of color.

5. Big denim jacket
Now you can pair this last one with honestly any of the others. Whether you go with a big denim jacket (like I do) or some other staple jacket, the right outerwear thrown over whatever outfit you go with can really bring it all together. Just make sure you don’t mind what’s underneath it, just incase the sun comes out.

Overall, wear what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and happy. I love clothes and I love planning out what I’m going to wear, but on my most tired of days, these tried and true pieces of advice keep me going.

Photo via tumblr

Sophomore SMAD major at JMU with a passion for people, donuts, music, coffee and pretending to do homework outside. If you watch Parks and Recreation we'll get along just fine.
Aleixka has a B.A. in Media Arts and Design and a minor in Spanish from James Madison University. She loves all things books, traveling, food, and photography.