When it comes to fashion, how you wear something is almost as important as what you wear. You have to create your own style based on your likes and dislikes. Everything that you wear should be as unique as you are.
But there is a problem, people have a tendency to have the same staple items. One staple item that is consistent in every college student wardrobe? The basic hoodie.
A hoodie is plain and boring, this makes it the perfect starting point for any style adventure. A hoodie can be taken in any direction when it comes to styling.
So how exactly do you take a hoodie and work it creatively into your wardrobe? First, you should consider the look that you are going for. Below I have listed some basic themes that allow you to utilize the advantages of a hoodie.
Bluntly bright: Color blocking is always in. It’s simple to do and it always makes a statement. There is a variety of ways to achieve this look. You can take a black hoodie and pair it with a bright over-the-shoulder bag. The color will be striking against the basic background.
To avoid being too “matchy,” don’t pair this outfit with shoes that are the same color as the bag. Instead, get shoes that are a shade lighter or a shade darker than the bag. If you do choose to play with colors, make sure to keep your pants a basic muted tone, or else you’ll risk looking like the love child of a circus clown and a go-go dancer.
Edgy rocker: Layering is a must in the fall. Since it’s not cold enough for a wool pea coat yet, the next best thing is to layer a motorcycle jacket over a hoodie. The basic hoodie underneath will be brought to another level.
This look is not just limited to monotone colored hoodies. Try an abstract pattern or animal print to spice up the look. This look is both stylish and functional. Enjoy the warmth of the leather and protect yourself if it should start to rain.
Prep protégé: For those that lean towards a more polished look but still want to enjoy the casual aspect of a hoodie, I have just the thing for you. Choose a hoodie that you enjoy and pick out a collared button down that compliments the hoodie. When you have the hoodie on, allow the collar of the shirt to poke out.
The thinner the fabric of the hoodie is, the more polished the look will be. Finish this look off with a pair of muted pants and a sleek and slim shoe such as a loafer, baby doll shoe or Vans tennis shoes.
Girly glam: Instead of hiding your statement necklaces and bracelets under your hoodie, bring them out. This look is for those that have a sweet preference when it comes to their style.
To achieve this look, simply pick out a pastel colored hoodie and pile on the statement necklaces and bracelets. Make sure the statement pieces are in the same color family; gold tones complement pastel colors well. Belt the hoodie with a thin belt to accentuate your curves and really play up the feminine vibe of this look. This look can be completed with jeans that complement the hoodie. As for footwear, try floral printed wedges or flats that compliment the hoodie that this look revolves around.
Once you do start experimenting with different ways to spice up a simple hoodie, you will find that a hoodie is not just something that you use to protect yourself from the rain. A hoodie is a staple. A staple is a building block for an outfit. So have fun and step out of your style safety zone. Rise above the average hoodie wearer.