15 What to Wear: A Guide

What to Wear: By: Jessica Scroppo Assistant Editor A Guide

If you’re a college student, there are many things to worry about: projects, assignments and going to class. One thing is for sure — you need to be dressed for each occasion. Whether you are studying, presenting or hanging out, wearing an outfit that is “just right” can help you feel confident and prepared. This isn’t exclusive to girls either… guys need to look sharp too!

A Presentation You have a huge project you’ve been preparing, you need to present your PowerPoint to the class or recite your speech after practicing five times through. How can the most stressful part of these situations be what to wear?

When in front of the class or a professor, you want to wear something that is classic, clean and shows that you tried. It’s most important that what you wear prepares you for what you want to convey to your audience.

Try pairing a black sweater or white button down with slim plaid dress pants. This is foolproof and classic for girls or guys. Certain pieces never go out of style, and you can’t go wrong with a simple black sweater and some neutral print pants.

Pair the outfit with a pair of black loafers, tan dress shoes or ankle boots. (Now is NOT the time for you to bring the Birkenstocks or Converse out!) If you’re a girl and you want to look a little dressier, switch out the dress pants for a skirt and black tights. Any neutral color sweater is a safe bet to look effortless yet put together.

Where To Buy These: H&M, Target, Aritzia, ZARA

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Studying or Going to Class Maybe I’m not the best person to ask concerning this category, because when I’m sitting in class for two hours, I want to be COMFORTABLE. Unless there is a special occasion, I rather be sitting comfortably than dressed to the nines.

We all know lounge wear has become extremely acceptable; it’s all that many college students wear. I say let’s embrace it while we can!

The key to dressing comfortably is looking presentable, but feeling like you’re wearing pajamas. Sometimes, this is a very fine line, and it can be crossed by wearing the wrong cut of sweatpants. To me, the right athleisure pieces combined can show as much style as wearing statement pieces.

First, start with a few solid-colored pieces. This could be a black legging or jogger. For guys, this could be the classic black 5-inch inseam short. Next, add a crewneck or hoodie. I personally like to add a solid-colored hoodie or something vintage (maybe with a graphic). You’ll want to add a T-shirt under for when you get heated with stress.

The fun part is adding a jacket. This is where you can add colors, patterns or different textures that elevate your lounge look.

Make sure you follow this rule when wearing athleisure: tight on top, baggy on bottom OR baggy on top, tight on bottom. A whole outfit that is too tight or baggy might miss the mark. Go ahead and add your Uggs, Yeezys or Air Forces to this type of outfit. Event Outfit Going out? Depending on the season, there are different levels of outfit to show you’re ready to have fun. You never want to look like you’re trying too hard, and you want to make sure you’re comfortable for whatever activities are ahead of you.

Whether you’re partying or going out to dinner, I think there is a specific formula for both guys and girls that should be go-to’s across the board.

If you’re a girl, you know that usually cute, frilly tops are going to be cropped. That’s why high wasted jeans are essential. Black or medium wash denim are my default choices. They’re a safe bet and can hide any wrinkles or spills.

The same goes for guys. Pair a dark denim with a flannel, and you’re ready for day or night. You can also wear a crewneck sweater: simple or with a graphic. This can add something extra to an otherwise plain outfit. Don’t overthink it.

Of course, these may seem like common sense or what’s obviously “in style.” However, it’s always nice to have a fallback outfit and know that you can count on a certain look to make you feel comfortable. That’s all that matters!

Where To Buy These: H&M, Lululemon, Nike, Fruit of the Loom Where To Buy These: H&M, Abercombie, Levis