College students often think that the beginning of a new semester brings with it a “clean slate” of sorts. After a long, leisurely summer break, we’re ready for a fresh start. A new semester gives us the chance for reinvention, to be the person we truly want to be.
Last semester, you may have been interested in joining one of the numerous clubs that WVWC has to offer, but may have made excuses because you were afraid of leaving your comfort-zone. This fear of change can also extend into our wardrobe choices. The truth of the matter is that we’re creatures of habit; we like what we know because we’re comfortable with what we know. We love to wear our favorite outfits to death and ignore the trends. Essentially, we refuse to evolve in an environment that is constantly subjected to change.
Think I’m being melodramatic? Just look at all of the middle-aged women out there who refuse to let go of the 80s; I’m talking shoulder-pads, big bangs, teased hair, the whole nine yards. It’s a grave problem.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a signature look, but there is something wrong with being stuck in what I like to call a “style rut”.
So here’s my advice to you, dear reader: be adventurous! Take a chance, for crying out loud! Try making some of these simple changes to get yourself out of that style-rut and into something that makes you feel fabulous:
1. Try on something that you would “never wear in a million years.” Let’s say, for argument’s sake, that you hate palazzo pants. They disgust you. You can’t possibly fathom why someone in her right mind would wear something so close in resemblance to pajama pants and with such a lack of structure. Fine. Whatever. I get it. But there’s one fundamental problem with this scenario: you’ve never tried them on. I dare you to go to the nearest department store/boutique, grab a pair of palazzo pants and try them on. Who knows, you could find one of your new favorite clothing staples. You’ll never know until you try!
2. Mix and match. “Don’t wear more than one pattern at a time.” “Don’t wear black with brown.” “Don’t pair gold with silver.” Those are just a few rules that supposedly govern our wardrobe choices. The first thing I want you to do is to throw these obscurities out the window; they’re no longer relevant. When it comes to creating a look, preconceived notions about what should or should not be worn together merely limits your options—which should be infinite. If you see two patterns that seem to look good together, try them on. Try pairing a floral print with plaid or an Aztec pattern with vertical stripes. When it comes to mixing and matching, the most important element you can have in your style arsenal is creativity!
3. Change up your hair and makeup. If you’ve ever wondered what you would look like with a pixie cut or a bob, now is the time to bid your long locks adieu. Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Shailene Woodley, and Kaley Cuoco have been rocking the short hair this year—so what’s stopping you from giving it a try? If you refuse to part with your hair (no pun intended), getting a dye-job may be the perfect solution for you. And nowadays, anything from blue to balayage is fair game.! If you’re looking for something a bit less extreme, you can always try something as simple as parting or styling your hair differently. In regard to makeup, try on different eyeshadows, lipsticks, et cetera until you find the perfect combo that compliments your complexion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors, especially when it comes to creating a unique look for a night out.
Just remember, this year can be your year. All you have to do is be open and willing to taking chances. If you want something, make it happen. It’s that simple.