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

It seems ironic that the same society that preaches perfection, also values an effortless laid back vibe. I mean, think about all of the “casual” Instagram posts flooding your feed right now. It’s cool, seems natural, but have you ever tried to post one? Ya it is harder and more stressful than just posting a regular picture. But don’t worry, cool girls like Zoe Kravitz and Bella Hadid have mastered this art of not trying and you can too. Here are five tips and tricks to get you looking perfectly undone in no time.

  1. Back to Basics

At the center of every cool girl’s closet are good-fitting basics. A pair of jeans that hug you in all the right places, a t-shirt that accentuates your figure and comfortable shoes are essential to building that “effortless” look. I urge you to try a few different items to see what you like and what makes you feel confident. You might have to spend a little bit more to get that perfect fit, but the splurge is definitely worth it. These are a few of my favorite go-to’s.

Jeans: Levi’s

T-shirt: Brandy Melville

Shoes: New Balance

College Women Freeze Eggs
Molly Longest / Her Campus
  1.  Accessorize to the Max

Accessories have the ability to make or break an outfit. The addition of some layered necklaces and a baseball hat can make even the most basic of outfits look stylish. I recommend adding around five accessories to every outfit to give it that cool-girl flare. 

  1. Sneakers with everything

I mean, we all love a good athleisure-sneaker moment, but have you ever tried pairing your favorite pair with a dress? Instantly chic! With your favorite dress pants? Cool girl to the max. Swapping sneakers for heels will immediately make you feel more effortlessly chic, and not to mention more comfortable. Some versatile options are linked below.

Converse

Nike

  1. Go natural

Time to retire the straightener. Ok, maybe not forever, but still, your natural kinks and waves instantly make your vibe seem more relaxed. Sticking to your natural hair not only adds an effortless flare to your look but it also radiates self-confidence. And, I mean, less getting ready in the morning, I’m not complaining. It’s clear this trick is a win-win for both parties. 

  1. Undo, Untuck, Unbutton

The classic three un-s. Lol, but I’m serious, this tip might be the most iconic trait of the effortlessly undone style. Unbutton that top button of your collared shirt, go to school with that half-tucked t-shirt situation, and undo that ponytail like there is no tomorrow. It’s simple, easy and honestly saves you so much time.

Intentionally becoming a hot mess seems ironic, but trust me, it’s cool. Following these tips will have you looking like an LA cool girl in no time.

I’m a sophomore studying interior architecture at the University of Kansas. I love all things design