When is fashion appropriate?

I lectured my little sister the other day as though I was her mother. She was complaining about not having new shoes for school.\nShe said, "I can't wait to go shopping I'm finna look so fly for school."\nI snapped: "Don't you go to school to learn?" While I was editing her paper I came to the conclusion that she really doesn't go to school to learn. My little sister goes to school to style and profile for her many admirers, and that got me thinking -- when is the fine line crossed between stylish dress, and dressing for attention?\nThis year I have started to notice there is a look on campus called the 'my shorts must be the shortest shorts' look. I find this a little inappropriate, especially considering the freezing temperatures in most lecture halls. Low rise jeans are also cool, but find ones that fit! No one wants to see your thong, or your butt crack hanging out during class or work. To the men on campus:: how about ironing your clothes and pulling up your pants? The velour suit is cute but not everyday. Never be a slave to fashion trends that don't work for you. Learning how to dress appropriately is an important part of growing up. There is a dress code for everything. \nCollegiate fashion does exist, and can actually be quite stylish. College is where we come to groom ourselves for our future careers. Learning how to look somewhat professional is a part of the process. No one is saying 'dress in business suits everyday', but adding small staples to your wardrobe doesn't hurt. This season's picks are perfect for anyone trying to add a more grown up look to their wardrobe. \nThe old college look is back. Classic fabrics and cuts such as tweeds, blazers, and pencil skirts are hot this season. In Style suggests pairing a white pencil skirt, with a tri-colored turtleneck, or white twill pants with a white turtleneck. The great thing about these looks is you can wear them with sneakers. Of course, no one can ever forget about the corduroy blazer over a turtleneck, with a dark pair of jeans; it's sexy and it's classy. Everyone should be prepared for their first internship without going out and buying an entire closet full of clothes. Classics like the ones that are in this season, are classic because they always have a place in our wardrobe. To the men on campus: invest in a pair of flat front khakis or slacks and pair them with a yellow turtleneck and a jacket. This season think bright and sleek. \nTrends are important, but save 'the man catching clothes' for the frat parties and bars.Think about where you are going before you decide what to where. 80 percent of your clothes should be investments, not something you can't wear next fall. So go to school to style and profile but for college sake, please learn how to write a paper.\n-- Contact staff writer Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.