College comes with many challenges. These challenges include but are not limited to endless coursework, over-committing ourselves to clubs and organizations, motivating ourselves to go out and be social even though Netflix and microwave popcorn are constantly calling us, and struggling to find meals while simultaneously keeping money in our bank accounts. On top of all these troubles of the semi-adulthood phase, one of the most challenging problems we face is appropriately dressing ourselves.
Here is a guide of everything you need to know about the six looks worn by college girls.
1. The 'Hardcore Bum'
This look takes the phrase "bumming it" to the next level. This is not just your favorite oversize hoodie, it's your favorite oversize hoodie and your favorite oversize sweatpants. The look often manifests in the form of the beloved groutfit (grey-outfit: groutfit). The hardcore bum look is best pulled together with moccasins or flip flops and some type of minimal effort hairstyle. It says "I can, and probably did, wear this to bed." The look also doubles as a warning signal, letting everyone know that you are not, under any circumstances, putting up with anybody's shit today. It is meant to be shamelessly rocked. Ladies, own those groutfits and strut your sweats. You deserve it.
2. The 'Active Student' Look
This look encompasses all those outfits we wear that give others the assumption that we're going to the gym later, when in actuality, we are most definitely not. This is where leggings and yoga pants thrive. The possibilities are endless! You can wear leggings and a sweatshirt, leggings and a bro-tank, leggings and a t-shirt, leggings and a spirit jersey, cropped leggings, patterned leggings, and so much more! This look shows people that you've got things to do and places to be. The 'active student' look minimizes effort without lessening social acceptance. Most college girls feel a strong sense of loyalty to this look and straying from the safety and comfort it provides is a rare venture.
3. The 'Subtly Cute' Look
This is arguably the hardest look to accomplish. The cute, yet subtle look appears like it was easily thrown together, when in reality, your closet was torn apart in the effort. It is the day-to-day style that most of us don't care enough to try for on a day-to-day basis. This may even include wearing pants other than leggings (God forbid). Possible features of this look include: cute shoes, fitted jackets, flowing tops, cardigans, and actually doing your hair and makeup (maybe). If you can convince yourself that this look is worth it on any given day of the week, you are an inspiration to us all.
4. The 'Look at me, I am Actually Trying' Look
This look has purpose; it means that you have a plan for your day, and it involves looking damn good. Existing within the realm of the "look at me, I am trying" look, there are dresses, skirts, statement pieces and any perfectly flattering outfit that is guaranteed to turn some heads. One step above to "cute, yet subtle," this look is probably too nice for class, but who cares? If you want to put on that new maxi dress for lunch with friends, you should do it! This look is all about feeling good about yourself and turning some heads in the process. That cute boy in your lecture is definitely going to notice you in this!
5. The 'Parent-Approved' Look
The parent-approved look is crucial, being the go-to look for mom's/dad's weekend, family gatherings, or any situation where you need to convince adults that you are mature and have your shit pulled together. These outfits scream "ask me about my academics and involvement, I dare you." With a modest sweater, dark jeans, and riding boots, you could convince anyone that you are not hung over and have your life in order. Most importantly, if you really nail this look, your parents are more likely to buy you food! It's a win-win situation.
6. The 'TGIF' Look
Finally, we have the TGIF outfit. Although it is named for its ability to show off the spirit of a Friday night at college, it can be worn any time of the week for a night out. This look means you get to put on those new wedges and strut down the hall in that outfit that makes everyone yell "OMG, you look hot! Have fun tonight!"
Getting ready to rock this look requires listening to 'Flawless' by Beyoncé while trying out that new smokey eye trick you found on Pinterest. 'TGIF' outfits may require some liquid courage to feel like you are rocking them to the fullest potential, but that's half the fun.
No matter what look you want to embody, you should always do what makes you feel the best. That's what is most important.
