JENNIFER CHAN
Fashion Columnist
Class. Work. Sports events. Meetings. Parties. Campus events. Weekend trips.
You’re a college student … your schedule is packed, and the places you go and the people you see are never-ending. When faced with a different outing or function to attend every time you turn around, the thought of dressing for each occasion can be downright dizzying.
So how can you schlep from night classes to nights out on the town and still look fabulous? With a little bit of planning and style know-how, you can nail the perfect look, no matter what the occasion.
Going to Class. Before you reach for your tattered sweatshirt and worn-out baseball cap, try sprucing things up with a pair of great-fitting jeans and a casual sweater or layering tees instead.
Indulge in accessories to dress things up without looking as though you tried too hard, and select a stylish yet comfortable shoe to complete your class-act look.
For guys, if you prefer basic t-shirts and jeans, opt for tees with a streamlined cut and fit rather than the oversized-giveaway tee you scored at the most recent basketball game. Crewneck sweaters or the popular ‘rumpled’ button-down oxford are other appealing options.
The comfort factor will still be in effect, but you will look and feel more pulled together at the head of the class.
Job Interviews. For the career-minded college student, job or internship interviews are in the near future — but snagging the position may just be as overwhelming as what to wear to a big interview.
First impressions are crucial, so it is essential to dress professionally and appropriately for your field. Knee-length pencil skirts, tailored button-down shirts or sassy sweater sets and chic shoes (think: pointy-toed sling backs or pumps) are hits for the ladies, while guys can dress in a pressed oxford shirt, flat front trousers and a sleek tie to impress future employers.
Keep accessories to a minimum — such as pearl earrings for girls and a sharp looking watch for the guys.
Nights Out. Ready to unwind from the stress of school? Whether your weekend plans involve dancing the night away on Sunset or simply dining in Santa Monica with friends, your weekend wardrobe should reflect a little less structure and a lot more fun than your typical weekday wear.
Weekend dressing should be thrilling, not daunting, so use your creativity to pull together a stylish ensemble that fits your mood. The same great-fitting jeans you wore to class can whisk you away for a dazzling night out — with a few minor changes. Top your jeans off with a glamorous top or an elegant blazer in an interesting fabric (such as satin or brocade) and trade your flip-flops or Uggs for a pair of strappy stiletto heels. Elegant earrings or an eye-catching necklace can also add a jolt of excitement to an otherwise simple outfit.
For the men, crisp Oxford shirts in deep colors or slim-fitting crewneck tops can easily take your look from classroom to nightclub with minimal effort. Casual sport coats paired with jeans are also great alternatives for a little more formality and class.
Church. Sunday service calls for a conservative look that celebrates your spirit but does not stifle your style. From tailored trousers or flirty full skirts and sundresses, dressing for church can be cinch with a few key versatile pieces in your closet. Sassy yet sweet sweaters or cardigans top things off nicely when accented with lady-like jewelry like pendant necklaces or shimmering stud earrings that are delicate and refined.
Guys can stick to clean-cut slacks and dress shirts or basic polos for a classic and understated way to appropriately dress for religious events and services with a touch of panache.
So, with a bit of pre-planning and fashion expertise, dressing for the endless events in your life can be a breeze.
01-27-2005
