Freshman year can be the most challenging, yet most exciting, time in an individual’s life. Students have enough to worry about — from getting to class on time to getting along with roommates — so I’m here to take away a critical worry: fashion. These few fashion do’s and don’ts should help prevent any major fashion catastrophes.
Don’ts
1. Don’t wear wedges and heels: Unless you’ve trained your ankles all of your life, leave these calf enhancers in your closet until formal.
2. Don’t wear flowy skirts: We all love the mini and the classic A-line, but you should leave those at home because both the mountains and the ocean cause a constant breeze. If you do dare to wear flowy skirts, be sure they are below the knee — at least that way they will be under the protection of gravity.
3. Don’t wear sweats: Save these comfy staples for roommate slumber parties and finals.
4. Don’t change your style: Just because you live near the City of Angels doesn’t mean your closet must drastically change from jeans and tees to printed leggings, leather motorcycle jackets and aviators. Stay true to your style no matter what.
5. Don’t rely on flip-flops as your only choice of shoe wear. I’m talking to you, boys. You cannot complain in October that your feet are freezing because you insist on keeping with the California vibe. There is a chill in the air, so be sure you have your favorite sneakers or any closed-toe shoe.
Do’s
1. Sweaters/jackets: If you haven’t noticed already, campus is on the side of a mountain and beside the ocean. Both of these geographical wonders cause a constant breeze. So head over to H&M and all of your favorite stores to stock up on cardigans and scarves. They are fun accessories that keep away the chill.
2. Boots: Invest! Invest! Invest! Spend the money now to purchase a pair of solid boots. Black and brown are your best bets. Make sure there is a solid heel, but no more than two inches. One inch should be fine for trekking up to the CCB. Do yourself a favor and don’t wear little ankle socks. Go get some solid black crew socks to protect your heels — no one wants freshman blisters.
3. Show Pepperdine pride: Wear orange and blue to show your school spirit. Get Pepperdine gear and find fun ways to incorporate it into your personal style.
4. Wear black and tan: Both of these classic colors can seem challenging, but it’s all about textures. Wear a tan blouse with a black sweater. You can even wear all black, if you are so daring. Just be sure to keep in mind: style, fit, texture and shine.
5. Have fun with printed tees and cardigans! You should not be intimidated by a bold print. Pair an Aztec tee with a yellow cardigan, or wear printed socks with skinny jeans.
These do’s and don’ts are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you realize it or not, your style will change because you are entering a new part of your life.
Feel free to experiment with new style as you meet new people from all over the U.S. and the world. Don’t let new styles intimidate you. Just go and explore the world of fashion.
As published in the Aug. 26, 2013 issue of the Pepperdine Graphic.
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Follow Jacklyn Maza on Twitter: @jbizzmazzz
