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Remember when we were in elementary school? We would head back every fall with fresh white kicks and a new matching backpack/lunchbox combo. Now that we’re in college, the first day is different. Some students love showing off their new outfits the first few weeks while others, not so much. Whatever your reason for not being on top of the outfit game — it’s too hot, you’re too lazy, etc. — I’m here to give you ways to look cute and put yourself together for class without really trying.
A dress always works. Dresses are a great choice of clothing because you don’t have to coordinate pieces; just throw on one item and you’re out the door. They need minimal accessorizing and still look sharp. Jazz them up with some gladiator sandals or espadrilles, or dress them down with flip-flops and you still have a great outfit.
Even as the weather begins to get colder, dresses still work — just throw on a cardigan, blazer or jacket. One look I love is a solid-colored cotton dress with a scarf. It looks stylish and makes people think you put some effort into your outfit. But think about it: you’re only wearing two pieces.
Feeling extra hip one day? Throw on a belt at the waist of your dress. Or mix it up and go with a skirt and a plain tank top. Not feeling crazy patterns? Wear a basic black ribbed tank top tucked into a fun-colored skirt, like purple or royal blue. Even if you go jewelry-free, you’ll still look stylish. Skirts can be just as comfortable as sweats, but much cuter. And unless your classes are in DPC, you’ll be glad for the break from the heat in your airy, cool outfit.
Pairing jeans and a T-shirt is a combination that always works. However, there are a few variations that will upgrade your outfit from ordinary. Try your favorite skinny jeans and a v-neck T-shirt with a scarf — this adds another piece, but requires no effort. Or add a long necklace instead of a scarf. Accessories can take outfits a step beyond average. Try layering lots of different-length necklaces for a cool effect.
This outfit can also be switched up by swapping the jeans for jean shorts. Make sure they’re longer and cuffed, not super short cut-offs with the pockets hanging out. My friend gave me a great outfit idea that’s no-fuss, no-hassle: cuffed jean shorts and a baseball T-shirt. Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters have cute shirts that have a sparkly pocket or sequined stripes. It’s still a basic baseball T-shirt, but it has elements that dresses it up.
Right now I’m obsessed with jean shorts, white, slouchy tanks and boyfriend blazers. A boyfriend blazer is a great alternative to a hoodie because it’s trendy, keep you warms and is still comfortable. I have a few knit blazers, which are amazing. They’re made out of sweatshirt material, but have the appearance of a blazer — it’s the best of both worlds.
I’m sure you want to throw on those yoga pants and a UMaine sweatshirt in the morning, but please, I beg you, reconsider. There are plenty of options where you’ll be just as comfy, but so much cuter. You don’t have to wear an outfit with lots of layers and pieces to look like you put effort into your look. Especially when properly accessorized, basic outfits can be super chic and perfect for everyday wear.
Bangor Daily News