If you told my freshman year self that I’d trade in my XL sweatpants for ZARA slacks, I’d laugh in your face. For the first two years of my college experience, my closet was a shrine dedicated to one thing: comfort. Sweatpants, a sweatshirt, and a thrown-together messy bun were my everyday combo — whether that be for class, late-night study sessions, or a spontaneous coffee trip. One thing was for sure: sweats would be in the equation.
But hey, comfy, quick, and stylish, right, what’s not to love?
Truthfully, there is nothing wrong with wearing sweats to class; absolutely nobody has the time or energy to worry about what others are wearing, so you shouldn’t either. This article isn’t meant to discourage you from wearing sweatpants as your attire of choice, but rather encourages you to explore yourself as an individual.
My personal shift in style was less about the physical clothes that I was wearing and more about how I felt. Sometime between studying abroad, applying for internships, and realizing that the “real world” was closer than I thought, my relationship with clothes started to shift.
The changes began rather slowly. Rather than riddling through a jumble of sweats, I impulsively decided to venture into uncharted territory: jeans. My eyes were filled with a sea of blue, and I’ll admit, it was rather intimidating. But considering I’ve spent my entire life savings on jeans, it was only right to let them explore Amherst, finally.
Slowly, sweatpants turned into jeans, and sweatshirts into sweaters. I began accessorizing my outfits with loafers, loads of chunky jewelry, and belts — all things that I would never in a million years imagine myself wearing.
Most importantly, I was wearing these because I wanted to. Nobody told me to wear them; I wanted to investigate my style and experiment with how different clothes made me feel. It just so happens that I enjoy wearing slacks and ballet flats. It’s essential to recognize that you’re not less than if you wear sweatpants or other casual clothing. Don’t get me wrong, I still have a special place in my heart (and closet) for these too.
It sounds corny to say, but when I started dressing in ways that made me feel more confident, I performed better. Whether that be on a new painting, an exam, or a presentation, dressing in my preferred style allowed me to enter the scene with self-assurance.
Now don’t fret, this change wasn’t about abandoning comfort or authenticity: it was about growth. The growth to wear what I wanted, not what I thought that I “had to wear” to conform. Before I knew it, my closet became a reflection of me. A strong, creative, and confident girl, one who wore what made her happy.
Soon enough, slacks, jeans, and the occasional fish sweater were recurring members in my rotation. They were what made me happiest, and I am forever thankful for my ability to wear whatever I want- no longer worrying about the judgment of others. Turns out, adulthood doesn’t always come in the form of a big girl job, but is a more minor shift: jeans, slacks, or whatever your heart desires.
So, if the sweatpants/sweatshirt combo is your truth- go for it! If you happen to enjoy wearing slacks or loafers, also go for it! Wear what makes you feel comfortable and never let anyone tell you otherwise.
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