Penn's Wardrobe Basics

For me, building a fully functional and appropriate wardrobe is critical to developing individuality and my “adult” identity. Its kind of hard to make the transition from young adulthood where jeans, tees, and yoga pants are acceptable to adulthood where how you dress and how you carry yourself determines how seriously people take you. The comfort and ease that I craved throughout my teens and earlier twenties seem almost completely implausible for the future that I want. As I start my senior year at college, I think its time to focus on looking the part because lets be honest first impressions are critical to success in both personal and professional relationships. I am going to divide my wardrobe into three very simple categories that will hopefully overlap and make it easier to develop my personal style.

 1. Professional (i.e. Interviews, Conferences, Lectures, occasionally Class) I think that my professional style should reflect who I am. It should be classic and structured yet lively and fresh. By infusing a fundamental cadre of neutral slacks with expressive and bright statement pieces and accessories I will create something that will read young, urban, professional.


 2. Personal (i.e. Casual, Date Nights, Chill) I VOW TO NEVER WEAR SWEATPANTS. I have made this vow before because I find that sweatpants and things like them do nothing for my figure and nothing for my confidence. I would like a casual wardrobe that consists of well-fitting jeans, interesting pants, and breezy button downs for the warmer months. For the cooler months, I think chunky sweaters and sweater dresses are necessary. I think my clothes can be used year round if I rely on layering and accessorizing. Most importantly though, my style evolution depends on finding good quality pieces that fit my body impeccably and make me look well put together regardless of the occasion.


 3. Workout (self explanatory) I think having the proper clothes make working out and going to the gym more interesting and enjoyable. I can’t express how much more I would enjoy going to the gym if I had leggings, pants, and tops that made me comfortable and feel attractive. There’s nothing worse than being on an elliptical in front of a mirror and looking at the same dingy old Chipotle shirt that I’ve worn for years. Personally, I feel the clothes can have an even more positive effect on my body than the working out can.


 These three categories, and the subcategories will replace the mismatched array of clothing that I already have. I’m hoping to do a complete, Stacy and Clinton-esque overhaul in August. I will keep you updated and aware of any changes or specific purchases. Until next time. -Penn