When it comes to first impressions, clothes can say a lot about a person. Wearing a wrinkled shirt on the first day of school can signify that a person is messy. And wearing last year’s fashions may mean that someone doesn’t stay up to date with the latest trends. So, who wouldn’t want to look their best on the first day of school? (After all, who knows what secret signals your clothes may be giving out about you!) And with everything from pop quizzes to acne outbreaks out of your hands, planning the perfect fit can be an excellent way to take back a sense of control.
But how should you go about planning your own perfect first day of school outfit? Well, we have seven tips below that are guaranteed to have you looking your best for the big first day!
Build Your Outfit Around a Statement Piece
Do you have a favourite jumper, earrings, or dress that you never get to wear because it doesn’t go with anything? Instead of forcing it into an already existing idea for an outfit, try building one around it instead. This can be a great way to wear something you love but don’t usually get a chance to.
Dress for the Weather
Be sure to consult a weather report when putting together your first day of school outfit ideas. You can plan the perfect fit, but if it doesn’t match the weather, you’ll probably be looking a mess. For example, you might be super jazzed about the sweater you bought over the summer, but that doesn’t mean you should wear it on the first day if the mercury pushes 90! So, be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast as the first day of school approaches and adjust your outfit accordingly.
Utilize Textured and Vintage Pieces
Don’t be afraid to mix it up with a heavily textured blouse or dress. This can be a great way to add interest to an otherwise dull outfit. And when it comes to making a statement, sometimes old-school, vintage clothing is the way to go. The studious librarian skirt and sweater combo can be a cute look. Look through your mom’s or older sister’s closet and see if there isn’t something you might not be able to repurpose for yourself. (Just be sure to ask permission first, of course!)
Utilize Modest Blouses
Especially in a learning environment, wearing appropriate clothing is vitally important. This doesn’t mean that you must dress like you’ve escaped a convent. Even modest blouses can still be chic. Look for eye-catching colours or patterns to help even staid ensembles stand out. One fun way to interject personality is to look for an animal print blouse that can easily be paired with jeans or leggings. Besides being modest, this is also a way to add an edge to a look. Why not harness the power of big cat for yourself?
Don’t Look for Validation from Others
As difficult as it can be, dress for yourself, not others. This isn’t to say that we don’t all appreciate compliments on our shoes or clothes. But in the end, if you’re looking for validation from the bully who picked on you all throughout middle school, dressing differently isn’t going to get it for you. There will always be people whose opinions you can’t change, and high school is as good a place as anywhere to learn this.
Don’t Be Afraid to Dress More Mature
Dressing more adultlike with a business casual style can be a great way to go for the first day of high school. Adding a blazer to your look will make you appear more professional, but it can also add needed structure to an ensemble. Consider this style to stand out from the underdressed pack. Another great way to add some maturity to your look is through quality accessories. By adding stud earrings or a nice watch, you’ll look more polished and well put together. Plus, don’t forget the power of a great handbag! A sophisticated tote or crossbody can make all the difference in your back-to-school style.
Remember: You Can Wear Anything You Want
Some may still feel pressure to dress a certain way. There really is no need to. As Aemilia Madden from the Zoe Report says, “Comfort and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive.” In short, wear what you want, if you think it’s fashionable, that should be good enough! And if that means a hoodie and jeans, so be it.
And don’t worry about someone thinking your outfit looks silly. Everyone is much more worried about what you think of them than vice-versa. And at the end of the day, no one is likely to remember what their classmates were wearing on the first day by the end of the week.
Don’t Stress, Look Your Best!
Once the big day approaches, try not to get too nervous. Taking care of your body is essential, too. This means getting a good night’s sleep and staying stress-free is just as important as looking good as whatever you happen to be wearing. Luckily, you really can’t go wrong with the seven tips above. So, take a deep breath and walk into class with confidence, knowing you look as good as you feel!