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Back to School A-Z: How to Turn the Hallway Into a Runway
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Art by
Kamalia Blunt | VOX Staff |
By Modupe Alabi and Yasmin Maleek | VOX Staff
A- Accessorize
The best way to turn a top and bottom into a full outfit is to glam it up by adding a few creative pieces to complete the look. Layer a short, sweet dress with long necklaces, but be careful not to make it too heavy.
B- Be prepared
Don’t wait until the morning to get everything ready. Do it all the night before—it makes the mornings less hectic and stressful.
C- Confidence
Confidence is key. If you go into the school year with your head held high, knowing you’re going to do well, most likely, you will.
D- Do-it-yourself
If you can’t afford something, make your own version. If you have a boring old folder, make a collage on it with pictures of your favorite things, so you’ll smile when you see it.
E- Eco-friendly
The world is working hard to save the planet, and you can, too. When you go shopping bring your own, don’t bring stuff home in tacky plastic bags. Bring a tote bag. It lasts longer and doesn’t contribute to pollution.
F- Food
As a young adult, it’s time to take responsibility for your health. In the lunch line, add some fresh fruit to your meal and skip the vending machine. You’ll thank us when you’re able to fit into that homecoming dress.
G- Gym class
Don’t sit out during volleyball or hang to the side when it’s time to do some laps. Get in shape and get more participation points, which will help your grade.
H- Hair
During the summer, overexposure to the sun damages hair and splits ends. Make sure your hair’s clean, healthy and well groomed for school.
I- Illuminate
Bring light to something unknown in your community and be an active voice among the silent. Don’t be ashamed of bringing attention to something you are passionate for.
J- Juniors
The Juniors department, as you’ll find in most department stores, caters completely to us teenage girls. It offers clothes and accessories for pretty much every size and shape. Utilize it when you’re in the market for apparel.
K- Knitwear
Worn the right way, knit clothing can be chic and comfy. Try a nice oversized cardigan or off-the-shoulder sweater this fall.
L- Learn immediately
The beginning of the year sets the bar for how the rest of your school year will go. If you miss something in the beginning, it will be hard to catch up, so listen hard, take notes and stay focused!
M- Menswear as womenswear
Huge on the runways — clothing usually fitting a guy’s physique transforms to girly chic. If you can’t get your hands on a shirtdress, grab a dress shirt from your dad or older brother, match it with a belt and really cute jeans, tights or leggings and you’re good to go!
N- News
Stay updated on what’s going on in your community, so you don’t miss out on events that might interest you. Read magazines, watch the news and read local newspapers like VOX to stay current.
O- Organize
Folders, binders and dividers are always on your back-to-school list for a reason. It’s so much easier to find your homework if it’s in the right section, not lost in your locker.
P- Plaid
Huge from Gucci to Prada to Dolce&Gabbana, plaid is here, there and everywhere. Apparently the school-girl look is hot. Don’t deck yourself out head to toe in plaid, but a nice jacket, tights, scarf or coat will do the trick.
Q- Questions
If you want to know more about something or don’t understand something, ask a question. If you’re talking to someone and he/she goes completely off subject, ask a question to get him/her back on track. Questions work.
R- Renewal
This is a new year, introduce a new you. Don’t change completely but go to school with a clean slate and fresh mind. Let go of grudges and begin this year with a positive outlook.
S- Sleep
This is the time in your life when our bodies are changing, so get as much rest as you can. Texting your best friend into the wee hours of the morning might sound like a good idea now but not when you’re faced with a pop quiz in second period!
T- Tailored
It’s the business woman look — power suits and pinstriped clothing that appear customized for your body. To get this professional style, try wearing fitted blazers with skirts or slacks.
U- Unique
Always include a bit of your personality in everything you do. Don’t do something if your gut goes against it, and try your best to resist peer pressure. Being you is always the best way to go.
V- Vintage
Old-fashioned is in fashion! Fifties, 60s and 80s retro is amazingly stylish. Head to a thrift store and see what we mean. A 50s coat/jacket with a dress looks really cute and can cost so much less.
W- Wild
Animal prints and fur (fake of course) are edgy and will help you stand out. Plus, the faux fur will keep you warm in the fall: fashion and function!
X- eXpression
Self-expression and communication are some of the strongest and most natural desires girls have. Embrace them and free yourself.
Y- Yellow
Mustard yellow, that is. It looks good on many skin tones, and it’s great for the fall season. It can be worn with several colors, including charcoal gray, navy, dark khaki or dark brown. Just don’t wear it all at once.
Z- Zone
Get over it. Summer’s over, and it’s time to start using your brain again. Get your mind in the zone for back to school. You can make new friends and have a second chance to join that club/organization you didn’t have a chance to join last school year
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