Start off with the right look: The ‘homeless’ look is not in fashion

Look around you for just a moment and count how many people are wearing sweat pants, ripped T-shirts, house slippers and other similar items – you’ll probably lose count in the first five seconds. And while classes are starting here at IU, that is no excuse to carry on those lazy summer fashions. I recently took a stroll around campus in search for my next column inspiration, and, as usual, I was not disappointed with the amount of material I found. Just about everywhere I turned, I saw a couple of girls wearing wife beaters, sweats and a pair of Goodwill house slippers.

I find myself repeating this next bit, but I have to say it: The “homeless” look is not “in” nor has it ever been “in.” With fashion being so worldly and accessible, it should be easier than ever to look fashionable. And, of course, I have a few suggestions to help you out.
Because it’s still hot and humid outside, you want to keep it minimal but still make it classy. My suggestion for this look is a simple sun dress. Even in Bloomington, I noticed that our boutiques have a great selection of sun dresses. With this type of dress, I would recommend either a flat or a wedge. Both of these match the particular look but still keep your outfit fairly casual and class-appropriate.

The big bag is still huge right now, so as long as it matches your dress, it is fair game. However, I would keep away from a bag that has no definition, such as the hobo bag – think more like an oversized tote that allows you to store all of your class essentials but still keeps it fashionable.

Needless to say, accessories are huge right now. It is all about that statement piece, and with a sun dress, you have plenty of neck room to work with. I would suggest something beaded and layered. Don’t overdo it by mixing too many metals or too many designs, but make sure it’s bulky because you want everyone to notice that statement piece. Of course you can always throw on a cuff or a bangle to add a little spice to your look.

Keep the hair minimal – and when I say minimal, I mean little product, natural styling and lots of flow – bed hair is unacceptable. Natural-looking makeup is the way to go this summer, so keep it to neutral tones and hues with a small addition of gloss to your lips for that girly look. Other looks I like include layering different fabrics and patterns: throwing on a high-waisted skirt with a ruffled blouse and a patent belt, for example. For more inspiration and tips on what to wear to class, take a look at fashion mega-sites such as style.com.

I know that sometimes classes and other activities seem to take over our lives, but it only takes a few extra minutes in the morning to look decent. Remember that you don’t have to wear designer to look chic. Chic is all about personal style and making every look, regardless if it’s designer or not, your own. In the end, always make sure that what you wear to class is something you would feel comfortable wearing on a stroll down Fashion Avenue in New York. So let’s get rid of that “homeless” look and bring the chic back to IU.