Going Out Outfits: College vs. Post-Grad

By: Jordan Ross

Hitting up your local college bars typically means one uniform: black crop top, jeans, no jacket, no matter the temperature, and the most beat-up pair of Air Force 1s you’ve ever seen. And that’s practical- bar floors are gross! Maybe in your senior year, you stepped it up to some black booties and resorted to a real jacket. But now, after graduation, it’s time to step up your game.

Here are a few ways to level up your going-out outfits.

1. Tall Boots

Try going for a statement shoe. A monochrome skirt and top can pop with the right heeled boots. Opt for a block heel for more comfort. Check out these black boots from Amazon.

2. Kitten heels

Dress up your flare jeans with a kitten heel. These will be much easier to walk in than stilettos, and look more mature than your typical sneaker. Kitten heels with a pointed toe, long light jeans, and a white top is perfect for an Aperol spritz on a rooftop this summer.

3. Mini Skirt / Micro Shorts

Ditch the crop top for a full-length top paired with a mini skirt or micro shorts. Micro shorts are all the rage, but if you’re not feeling all that leg, add some black tights!

4. Slick back + bold jewelry

If you are planning to dance the night away, it’s best to keep your hair out of your face. Try a

slicked-back bun or ponytail, then spice up your look with statement earrings or a bold necklace.

5. Leather Jackets

A jacket can be the outfit! Thrift or buy an oversized leather jacket for warmth and style. Pair it with tights and boots, or a skirt and heels.

6. Piece it all together

I love planning outfits from my phone and finding new looks on Pinterest. Some of my favorite fashion creators that inspire me daily are Hannah Harrell and Lauren Tiby. Explore their pages and the Pinterest inspiration pictures below to get your creativity flowing next time you are shopping.