A Fashionable Lesson

Dear Readers, 

This is the (longer version of the) article that was published in the October Issue of Femme Magazine. For all those who missed it, I wrote about what I personally consider to be 'back to school' clothing staples. Let me know what you think.

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Back when I was in secondary school, my biggest concern by mid-Summer would be finding a school bag for the next scholastic year. When I moved on to sixth form and University, however, the question I constantly asked myself was ‘What am I going to wear this year? ‘, usually followed by extremely melodramatic instances of ‘I have nothing in my closet!’

Excluding the few who gracefully manage to work and study at the same time, students tend to live on a very tight budget. Their bank accounts are in their worst shape when a new academic year commences. They fork out money to buy dozens of books. They buy laptops or tablets. They end up spending quite a bit on caffeine-drinks to prevent them from snoring through that 8am lecture. It is therefore perfectly understandable that students feel like they cannot afford to revamp their wardrobe at this time of year.

There are things that can be done to minimise this problem though. Firstly, sort out your wardrobe. This is going to give you a clear picture of what’s inside, what’s missing and what you really need to buy as soon as possible. When work starts accumulating and assignments begin rolling in, you will not have the time to do this! Secondly, hunt down any pieces that need modifying or altering and get them sorted out. After carrying out both exercises, know where to shop for bargain buys. Look through sales sections, ‘last chance to buy’ sections and visit your favourite charity and thrift shops.

If there is one thing I would definitely suggest splurging on, it’s your everyday bag. Keep in mind that this daily companion is going to carry your books, your laptop, your folders and maybe even food. Look for something neutral in colour, preferably water-proof (wet notes aren’t a good idea!), sturdy and structured that can comfortably host all of your student life. Unless you make a wise choice at the beginning of the year, you’re going to find yourself replacing your bag often and that can get really expensive. If you can afford it, get one in brown and one in black. You won’t need anything else.

The secret on the clothing front is to make sure you have a sound handful of basic clothing items when you return to college or university. First and foremost, basics are usually quite inexpensive when compared to other pieces. Secondly, these versatile garments can accompany you throughout the year because they are very easy to mix and match!

A plain white shirt is an essential in every student’s wardrobe. This piece can be worn casually and more formally, it can be layered and it can easily be re-interpreted if accessorised properly. White shirts can also be worn under what I can consider to be two other student staples, namely jumpers and cardigans. The latter two, preferably of the slouchy kind, were always my best friends whenever I had to brave the chilly breeze to attend an evening lecture!

For trousers, you should pick items that are very quick to throw on when you are just about to miss your direct bus to University (again!).  Leggings, jeggings and soft fabric jeans are ideal for long study sessions at the library, especially when you have to sit on the floor because all the desks were already taken. Keep a pair of chinos, carrot pants or tailored trousers handy for those days when you feel like making an extra effort or for when you are meant to deliver that very much dreaded presentation.

In the shoe department, comfortable shoes get my vote in the ‘ideal student shoes’ category. Whereas a pair of simple, black flats can take you anywhere from your literature lecture to a more put together meeting with your dissertation tutor, brogues are a preppier, more masculine alternative that can add an extra detail to your everyday outfit. I have to admit, brown brogues were my most worn type of shoe in my student days!

-B