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A Student’s Guide to a Chic Wardrobe

“Finding your own style” may sound like a cliché and I find I merge into different aesthetics when I am dressing. I always like to remain classy and despite many different trends, keep staple items that will never go out of style. As a student, this is also useful because you can often find these items second hand, or even already in your wardrobe! This also means that a more classic style can reduce fashion wastage and also your own bank account.


For many, this style may be what they strive for or the foundation for finding their own style. I hope that you will be able to incorporate these items into your wardrobe whilst giving it your own twist! This guide will by no means tell you how to dress or to buy new clothes. If your fashion leans towards icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Blair Waldorf, and Freddy My Love, or you just want to and more grace into your wardrobe in any situation then this guide will help go through the statement pieces. Emerge from lockdown with a new look, even on a budget!



M A T E R I A L


You never know who you’re going to bump into. Especially on your daily walks! That’s why looking good is important, because when you feel good on the outside, that translates to how you feel inside. The first way to look effortlessly chic is your choice of material. In the summer, chiffon and lace is an elegant and cool choice. Lace in moderation is a classic staple that looks chic and feminine. You can upcycle your wardrobe pieces by buying lace and adding it to tops and dresses for an affordable but elegant look! For evenings, satin is a gorgeous choice with satin midi dresses being seen on Pinterest currently. They are a staple for your wardrobe and look like you have made an effort whilst feeling comfortable at the same time. In the winter months, tweed is a timeless look, being a staple for Chanel with their tweed blazers giving the iconic chic look.



N E C K L I N E


Deliberating about neckline and hems can sound tedious but the right one can turn an outfit from bland to chic. A scoop neck t-shirt and jeans is a classic look but are not very expressive. When looking for tops, opt for square neck, sweetheart, and milkmaid sleeves. These are simple and classy and can ensure you’re looking elegant. Due to the rise in period dramas, milkmaid sleeves are accessible to purchase. There are also simple ways to make a normal top into a square neck which requires only basic sewing.



C O L O U R S


We must remember that fashion is an art as well as a functional aspect of our lives. Thinking about colours when dressing can ensure your clothes can handle every situation you are faced with, meaning you will be able to get the most out of your clothes and there won’t be clothes in your wardrobe that are never worn. By keeping to a colour palette simple, it ensures versatility. You can also mix more of your clothes together to be able to find your own personal expression. Pastel clothing is especially popular during the summer months, but these colours, especially beige can also be worn in the winter months.




A C C E S S O R I E S


Dressing elegantly may be a lot of monochromes, but accessories can make any outfit fun and add a pop of colour. An all-black outfit can be updated with a gold necklace or a bright bag. Being a chic dresser means having your own unique style which means accessories can allow for expression to be added to your wardrobe. Jewellery can always be found second hand, as well as belts and handbags. A great Gossip Girl inspired accessory is also headbands-you don’t need to wait for a trend to wear them!




H O W  T O  W E A R


A traditional feminine look would typically be sculpted dresses. To incorporate this style into your wardrobe, however, ensures you feel confident and comfortable whilst also appearing chic. Therefore, skirts and dresses are effortless and elegant. There are also few trends that dictate dress and skirt styles so a purchase will be timeless. As well as skirts, trousers and jeans can also give the same impression. When wearing wide-leg trousers opt for a more tailored top, reversing that when wearing skinny jeans and a less fitting top; a white shirt is a staple item that is accessible and timeless.




Ultimately, elegance comes from confidence and confidence comes from how good you feel in the clothes you’re wearing. Hopefully, this guide helped you to be able to find your inner grace and style within whilst incorporating it with your own style.




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