Before I could read or write, I dreamed in business casual. There is something so alluring--perhaps even borderline erotic--about crisp black blazers and starched collars. The way tailored clothes clinch the human body no matter what the age, and elevate its marred form into something glorious is more than alluring. Yet on most college campuses where suits and pencil skirts once abounded, it is rare to find one person even wearing pants.
In a "let's-chill" world where Facebook and Whatsapp dissolve any formal barriers, it's no wonder people find nothing shameful in wearing their pajamas or workout shorts to class.
Despite what many people think, dressing casually isn't just a comfortable choice. Several studies have developed in recent years showing that dressing down can lower work-performance and respect from peers. So, college freshman, here's four reasons why you should ignore the pressure of your friends to look like you just rolled out of bed, and instead dress for the respect you deserve. Save the gym clothes for the losers because this is how dressing up for class won't just change your appearance but also your career.
Dressing Well Improves Your Focus
If how we dressed didn't affect our mood, we wouldn't wear pajamas to bed. The same reason we wear lounge clothes for lounging and sleep clothes for sleeping is the same reason we should be wearing work clothes to work, or in this case, school.
In an article written by Forbes magazine (that has extra Awesome Points for listing Birmingham- Southern College as one of the top colleges that changes lives), Psychologist Dr. Pine addresses a study where people who wore lab coats were reportedly more attentive than when they wore artist smocks.
“This theory supports the notion that we would stay more focused when wearing work clothes, and may be more cognitively alert than if we dressed down,” said Dr. Pine.
There's nothing worse for reputation and respect from professors and peers than not paying attention during lectures. Sometimes a nice sweater is all you need to feel ready to tackle the world, and get the respect superheros deserve.
You'll Look Like the Smart Student
There's a reason why professors and CEOs dress nicely, and it's not just because they have more zeros on their paycheck than you do.
Research shows the higher up the ranks you are, the more likely you are to dress well. The reasoning is along the same lines of dressing for the job you want. It doesn't just show how serious you are about your desired profession, but will allow people to see you in that area.
It's actually not all that surprising. Imagine you had to choose a group partner for business class for a project that cost 40 percent of your grade. If your two options were Larry, who dresses in basketball shorts and flip-flops every class period, or Mary, who wears a clean-cut blouse and well-fitting pants to class, you'd probably be more likely to choose Mary as your partner. It's just common sense.
Your Professors Will Respect You
Yes, college students and especially college freshmen should not be treated any less than anyone else. However, if you put yourself in your professor's position, it's easy to realize while belittlement can occur. Professors already have a degree--often several degrees--that have given them a long list of experiences that have probably take them several years. You're just out of high school and, as far as they know, still haven't figured out what to do with your life. When you dress nicely, you are distinguishing yourself from your peers, and dressing on the level of your superiors. It's very unlikely that a professor will tease someone wearing the same outfit that she is.
You'll Have the Wardrobe You'll Need After Your Degree
Chances are those few nice clothing items you pull out for presentations or meetings in college haven't taught you much about how to wear adult clothing on a daily basis.
In fact, a recent report confirmed that business casual is the most standard work wardrobe requirement. This includes khakis, button-downs, blouses, trousers and skirts. That being said, the chances of you wearing yoga pants and tees again are pretty slim.
Dressing nicely as a freshman will not only give you the wardrobe you'll need when you get out, but will make dressing in the real world a breeze. After all, you're an adult now. Why not start dressing like one?
Dressing up in college doesn't always mean suits and dresses. It just means dressing like you're going to conquer the day instead of the mattress. For those of you who'd love to dress up to class, but are afraid of looking like a snob, don't worry! There are wonderful resources out there for the ladies and the gents that give affordable and practical advice.
Never be afraid to dress for the respect you deserve. Once you put on that flattering cardigan, you'll never look back.
Egredere,et vincet class of 2020
