ANGIE SHEEP
<Arts & Culture Editor>
As we get used to the pace of law school (again) for the next few weeks, all of us will most likely encounter some hectic mornings (especially those not lucky enough to avoid the early classes), and one or two quick tips can make all the difference between rocking Osgoode’s halls and becoming a huge fashion faux pas at school. By remembering these few pointers, you will make the best use of your precious time and arrive at Osgoode looking as classy and fabulous as ever. Try some of these tips for last minute occasions or when you hit the snooze button a few too many times.
Check All Angles
This is one of the best pieces of advice I have ever received myself. I believe every girl dreads going through the awkwardness (and utter embarrassment) of finding out that her skirt has been tucked in her underwear or learning that there is a huge run down the back of her pantyhose. Therefore, always check your backside by taking a reverse look in front of your mirror. When we are in a hurry, it is easy to forget everything but our fronts, and (as I’m sure you all know) when you’re in public, no side of you is left unseen or unexamined. People are paying attention to how you look from behind just as much as they do from the front. So always check the back; this will ensure that your fashion perfection shines through all angles.
Are You Hot to Go?
Another important pointer is to practice moving around in your outfit before hurrying out the door. You can start by taking a bow in front of the mirror. Is your shirt revealing too much cleavage? Are you spilling out of your top? This is a particularly important step when it comes to the workplace, as you may often encounter occasions where you have to reach across the table or pick up something you’ve dropped. Next, sit down and then walk around to see if your skirt is riding up too high. A full or half body slip can be the solution to your dress or skirt climbing up your thighs. If you discover that your outfit is not as “hot to go” as desired, it is oftentimes the best idea to change; don’t torture yourself the entire day with worries about whether people around you are noticing (or worse, discussing) your faux pas.
Simplicity Can Be Your Answer
We always want to look good, and some of us (the more ambitious ones I guess) also want to create the next brilliant fashion statement. But when you’re pressed for time and only have a few minutes to select the day’s outfit, it is probably best to opt for simplicity. There is a reason why we all have our go-to’s. They may not be iconic or covetable, but for some reason, they always work, always look good, and always come to our rescue in desperate fashion times. And if you want to change up the ordinary look, grab an eye-catching accessory (e.g. scarf, necklace, handbag) to complete your outfit. If you don’t have a go-to or are looking for a new piece, select wrinkle-free materials because who has time for the iron when the alarm fails to go off?
The Iron Substitute
My deep disdain for ironing has compelled me to adopt some lazy tactics to combat (deep-set) wrinkles, one of which is throwing my wrinkled clothes in the dryer for a few minutes before putting them on. This technique has saved my outfits many times when I stubbornly insisted on wearing those pants that were crinkled beyond help. But don’t forget to check the clothing label first to ensure it is dryer-safe!
Throw on A Blazer
Blazers have become one of my favorite and most relied-on pieces since starting law school. They pull almost any look together and never fail to give you the professional aura that adds a bounce to your step. A bright, unique blazer can also be the item you need to make your go-to pieces come alive. One drawback about blazers is that they can be easily wrinkled, and if you opt for one that is not dryer-safe, you should always take the extra step of hanging it up after wear. This simple task only requires seconds but will save you many minutes later on. Nothing is more disappointing than finally selecting the perfect item and then discovering it is not ready for wear due to your laziness days ago.
My busy Ozzie pals, I hope these few tips will enable you to have a smoother and stress-free morning so you have the time to run to the bistro to grab that much-needed cup of coffee. These easy-to-follow pointers, though extremely simple, are often overlooked in times of hurry. So remember them and never be a victim of time crunches!