dressing – Student Voices

College is a time to express yourself. From the way you act, to the way you talk, even to the way you dress; you are in complete control of how you want to present yourself. Personally, I believe the way a person dresses says so much, without actually saying anything at all.

I understand that the desire in college is to wear sweatpants, and a t shirt at all times because it is perfectly acceptable to do so. However, bumming it every day may not be the smartest idea. Here are some tips and tricks for knowing when to dress up…and dress down.

IPHONE 065 — (I remember picking this outfit specifically because I had a test…and because it was comfy. Matching my friend, Kat, was also a plus.)

You have a test. I like to say, “Dress cute, feel cute, do cute.” If that doesn’t make any sense to you, here is the gist: dressing nicely can make you feel more confident, which may lead to a better test grade.

(You don't have to dress crazy nice everyday... only if you want!) — (You don’t have to dress crazy nice everyday… only if you want! Please excuse my mirror pic)

You feel bad. If you are in a funky mood, the first thing you want to do is feel comfortable. That doesn’t have to mean donning your sweats though! There are dressier clothes which feel more comfortable, while still telling the world that you look good.

(My friends Elaine, Courtney and I rocking the business cas'.) — (My friends Elaine, Courtney and I rocking the business cas’ for student senate.)

You have an interview. Whether it be an on campus job, or a job in the “real world” this one is definitely non-negotiable. Dressing for success is essential for any job interview. How would you feel if you were conducting the interview and some person just rolled up in their baggy workout clothes? Personally, I would be upset and would definitely not hire the person who did not care enough to dress nicely.

(During this year's Orientation the play, Transitions, had a character that only wore his pajamas. EVEN to class!) — (During this year’s Orientation play, Transitions, there was a character, played by Cam Jennings, that only wore his pajamas. EVEN to class!)

You’re running late. Okay, this one I’ll give to you. If you are running late then I completely understand the non-dressy clothes you may throw on. No judgement, but when I’m running late I feel extra stressed; I don’t want to add to that stress by looking extra put out in my gym shorts. So, I have a few go-to outfit combinations that I turn to without fail. (Leggings and a long shirt with a denim. Always.) Find something that feels casual, but actually looks like you tried.

Despite this, however, you are still free to dress how you choose. If wearing dressier clothes isn’t your thing, you tried it and didn’t like it, then don’t fret; wear what you want… except at an interview. That one is non-negotiable.