Do you find it hard to balance class, work, the extracurricular and still look fabulous every day? You are not alone.
Being a college student these days is stressful, especially attending SMU, which is rated one of top 10 fashion conscious schools in the United States by Women’s Wear Daily.
Here are a few simple tips on how to look gorgeous every day with minimal effort – it only takes a little time to look hot!
First, take care of yourself by making healthy food choices.
I know it’s hard being a broke college student, but try your best, because it will pay off. Instead of opting for that burger in Umphrey Lee, go for a salad or a sandwich. Trust me, your body will thank you later.
Also, try to fit in some workout time, even if it is just walking 30 minutes every day. Maintaining a regular exercise schedule will keep the unwanted pounds off.
Make sure you take care of your skin. Wash your face twice a day, and don’t forget to moisturize! Clear, even-toned skin gives you a fabulous healthy glow.
My most important health tip is to get some sleep! I know you have tons of tests, papers and projects, but getting seven to eight hours of sleep a night will keep your body rested and give you the extra energy to keep up with your busy schedule.
Next, dress for your body type. This is the most important rule of them all, because you if you have on a killer outfit and it’s all wrong for your body, you will look like a fashion flop!
If you have a boyish figure, wear things that are more fitted on top and a relaxed jean or a semi-fitted pant that is looser on the bottom, so it will create the illusion of curvier hips. On top, V-necks or any neckline that falls below the collarbone help elongate your short torso.
If you have a pear-shaped body, steer clear of super-tight fitting bottoms by going for a very tailored pant and tops with cute details. This will draw the eye up and take attention off your hips and bring it to your entire outfit.
If you have an hourglass-shaped figure, you are lucky, because there aren’t too many things you can’t wear. Steer clear of baggy clothes or too tight clothes. Everything you wear needs to have a great fit. Also, wear things such as belts or wrap tops that accentuate your small waist.
If you have a full figure, avoid loud prints or patterns and oversize tent-like clothes (it makes it obvious you are trying to hide something). Opt for structured clothes, tailored jackets and a nice dark wash mid-rise (on the waist) jean.
Go for solid colors. Wearing the same color or monochromatic colors from head to toe has a slimming effect. This does not mean all black – you can go for any hue, even white!
Lastly, find your style and then own it! You need to know what you like and don’t like and also what you look and feel best in. This may take some exploration on your part.
If you are a basic jeans and T-shirt kind of girl then stick with it, but not raggedy jeans and an over sized T-shirt. There are tons of ways to keep it simple and still look ultra stylish. Start with a basic pair of nice fitting medium-wash jeans. Need to know some hot brands to try? Citizens of Humanity brand jeans are $130 for a pair or True Religion Brand jeans are $250 for a pair, are great buys.
I know they seem a little pricey, but great pair of jeans are a key item in a great wardrobe. On top you can rock a cute graphic tee. You can snag these anywhere. Target has super-cute tees for $10-$15 each. Another great T-shirt store is Urban Outfitters – its T-shirts range from $20- $45. If the simple look is not your thing, you’ll look simply chic in these other looks.
The boho look is characterized by romantic flowy tops and chic slightly loose fitting bottoms and chunky accessories. Prep’s can show their stuff with popped collar polos, cardigans or button-downed blouses, paired with designer jeans and topped off with pearls.
Whitney Patterson is a sophomore CCPA major and can be reached at [email protected]