So you've decided to be an English major, and you're asking yourself--what do I need? What look should I go for in order to alert others to my major choice? Well, look no further! Here's a list of 11 different items that will declare to the world that you're majoring in English.
1. Glasses
Eyewear is a great, easy way to signal to everyone that you have weak eyes! Show the campus how original you are with a pair of standard-issue chunky black frames. Note: gold wire or clear plastic are also acceptable, but may give off a strong Art major vibe (and no one wants that).
2. Oxfords
Shoes are important; they separate you from the ground. Enrich your walking experience in English major style by buying some classic oxfords. The best part of these shoes is that they're gender neutral, so you can safely fight gender norms one step at a time.
3. Modcloth
Bookmark Modcloth, because it will become your best friend. Fill your limited closet space with retro-style clothing that shows your desire to return to the literary past. If you're one of the seven male English majors, you might be able to find some intriguing cactus home decor.
4. Hair dye
Who in their right mind actually keeps their original hair color past seventh grade? Cover p that mousy brown with a Great Gatsby inspired green, to let everyone know that the 1) you totally read the book, and 2) the American Dream is dead.
5. Feline paraphernalia
The war between cats and dogs has no place in the English literature department, because it's already clear that the cats have won. Celebrate your cats in a meaningful way; a sweatshirt with a subtle space cat will usually let people know how you feel.
6. Chunky-knit sweater
You may be asking yourself, How can a sweater be specific to an academic apartment? To answer, I would say that there is nothing more English major-y than an oversized cable knit sweater, perhaps paired with a set of thick-rimmed glasses and some version of the copmlete works of Shakespeare. If you're not willing to double down on the sweaters (have a least 6 in the rotation), please reconsider declaring English.
7. Cardigan
A classic variant on the oversized sweater, the cardigan provides English majors with flexibility. Extra points if it's a a thick knit cardigan with pockets large enough to fit your Moleskin notebook and a thin-tipped pen.
8. Quirky boots
These boots need to say Yes, I bought these from Target, but I'm an English major, so it was done ironically.
9. Beanie
Not just for winter or fall, this versatile piece works for English majors who don't have the time to shower. Spend all night finishing that final research paper on the hypersexualization of black women in Quicksand? Slap on a beanie and get to class in a flash!
10. Scarves
A classic. Does not need to be an infinity scarf, nor need it be store bought. In fact, it might be best to invest in some knitting needles at this moment.
11. Worn paperback
Are you really an English major if you don't have at least 4 books somewhere on your person at all times? Pull out that dog-eared copy of Wuthering Heights and mosey around campus.