On my first day of classes, it was 90 degrees and the sun was blazing. I was walking around campus, and by the time I found where my Spanish class was, I was dripping in sweat. But I put on my mask and climbed three flights of stairs, only to find a classroom with no air conditioning. I remember sitting in class trying to slow my breathing, embarrassed by my sweat and trying to feel comfortable in a new class. I was so focused on myself and the temperature that I missed almost everything the teacher was talking about.
Clothes are an important way of expressing ourselves and showing the world who we are. It is so important to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable; when I am uncomfortable in an outfit, that’s all I can think about and I assume everyone looks at it and sees the flaws I see.
One of the most distinguishing features of Virginia is its weather; as Virginians, we experience every season. I have lived in Virginia my whole life, and I have never been able to dress weather-appropriate. So after the first week of classes, I made a shopping list of necessities for fashionable yet practical outfits. These pieces can be paired in a variety of ways to fit any season!
1. Athletic Crop Tops
Athletic crop tops are an absolute must! They are fit for sleeping, exercising and going out. When paired with leggings, skirts or biker shorts, they complete any outfit. The beauty of athletic crop tops is that they are universal. They come in various styles, colors and designs. As a bonus, because they are so popular, you can find these at really any women’s retail store.
2. Tennis Skorts
I saw one of my fellow Her Campus members in the cutest tennis skirt paired with an athletic crop top and tennis shoes. The skort allows for more movement and better coverage, and some even have pockets for your phone. Her outfit was super cute and breathable. Depending on the fabric, most are meant to absorb sweat. Paired with layered jewelry and a cute bag, this outfit is fit for almost any occasion.
3. Oversized Zip-Ups
The fall mornings in Virginia can get pretty chilly. If you’re like me and walking to class at 8 a.m., layering is going to be your best friend. For a casual outfit, an oversized jacket is a great addition. Neutral colors are the best closet additions. During the winter, it is smart to add them under crew-neck sweatshirts to add a cute hood and keep you warm.
4. Comfortable Slip On Shoes
When running late for class, my go-to is a quick slip-on shoe I can put on while I’m running out the door. Comfortable shoes are needed on a college campus, and you don’t want to go out in your expensive Nike sneakers every day.
5. Oversized Graphic Tees
Graphic t-shirts are a wardrobe addition; whether paired with jeans, biker shorts or shorts, they take a boring outfit to the next level. They are also a great way to spark conversations. Look into t-shirts that represent your interest: bands, celebrities or activities.
6. Biker Shorts
Biker shorts are pretty trendy right now; they’re flattering on any body type. Depending on your comfortability level, you can pair it with a crop top or an oversized tee. These double as a super cute workout outfit.
7. Sweaters/Cardigans/Blazers
Like I mentioned earlier, layering is essential in Virginia. For days when a zip-up jacket is too casual, sweaters, cardigans and blazers are a great way to bump up your outfit to business casual. My personal favorite is a sundress underneath a knit sweater.
8. Paper Bag shorts
If you want to stray away from the basic jean shorts, I suggest high-waisted pleated shorts. Paper-bag shorts are not skin tight and usually made of a lighter fabric making them cool for the summer and fall seasons. You can also pair them with a sweater and add tights and boots in the winter for an edgy, warm look.
9. Sundresses
Sundresses are meant for any occasion; depending on the style, they can be worn for all seasons. Sundresses alone are the perfect summer outfits. However, layer with a long sleeve and tights, and you’re ready for cooler weather.
10. Oversized Button Ups
Oversized button ups are a unique way of adding flair to an outfit. You can find lightweight, short-sleeve, long-sleeve or heavy flannels. Add a graphic tee and paper-bag shorts or a crop-top and jeans; button ups give you just one more way to layer up.
As we start this new year celebrating the hope for normalcy, you deserve to feel comfortable and look good doing it. Sometimes all you need to get through the day is a little confidence boost.