As the workload piles up and exams start rolling in, the semester is finally kicking into high gear. The parties and packed tables in E.S. Bird Library can attest that Syracuse University offers an array of after-dark activities, but make sure you arrive at that early morning lecture the next day. Easier said than done when you wake up five minutes before your first class.

Dressing for class may not be the most important thing on your mind when recovering from the five-hour cram session from the previous night, but your look doesn’t have to scream, ‘I’ve been up all night!’ There are simple outfit options other than what you wore to the gym the previous day.

First off, ditch the sweatpants with ‘Syracuse’ screened down the leg. Although it is a comfy alternative to jeans, it looks frumpy and unrefined. Pairing with it the matching Syracuse hoodie looks even worse. Try some leggings, or even jeggings (jean leggings). They are as comfy as your favorite sweatpants, but can be sleek and sophisticated when paired with the right top.

Pair the leggings with a solid-colored scoop neck or v-neck T-shirt, and throw on an oversized cardigan to give it a sophisticated upgrade. For the more rustic crowd, try on your boyfriend’s cozy flannel. An oversized flannel button-down with your leggings is an effortless yet stylish way to start the day.

If a flannel and a v-neck won’t work, try a button-down jean shirt: The throwback from the ‘90s pairs well with anything. It’s comfortable and classic. If it’s a Friday morning, wear it over leggings with the leg warmers from the ‘80s-themed Thirsty Thursday. It’s just as easy as throwing on the sweats.

If you must wear a sweatshirt, at least be unique. Instead of the obvious orange or blue Syracuse hooded sweatshirt, try a basic gray hoodless one. Pair the classic Syracuse sweatshirt with a pair of jeggings. The outfit is polished and easy to slip on. To add even more pizzazz to the look, cut the sweatshirt around the neck. This will create a slouchy look and add comfort when you’re trying to stay awake during your 8 a.m. lecture the next day.

If your current wardrobe doesn’t have what you need for the post up-all-night outfit, search the Salvation Army or your parents’ closet for a vintage T-shirt. Yeah, T-shirts can seem boring and simple, but when you put your own spin on them, they can transform your look. Take an old concert T-shirt and cut it around the neck, similar to the way you cut your sweatshirt. The T-shirt takes on a new slouchy look. An old T-shirt with some black leggings adds a vintage vibe to your ensemble. Maybe you haven’t been to bed yet or spent much time on your look, but your outfit looks thought-out and chic.

When all you really want to do is put on your favorite sweats or just wear pajamas to class, shoes are the last piece of clothing you want to think about. Avoid the obvious choice of running sneakers. They are great for the gym, but no need to wear them to class. Ugg boots, however comfortable and convenient, are overdone on Syracuse campus. Be different!

Slip on a pair of black or tan boots, or even a sleek pair of Keds sneakers. Both ideas pair well with any outfit choice and can be comfortable. Try out a pair of combat boots with any of the outfits above. The combat boot is just as easy to lace up as the running shoes, but adds an edgy vibe to the look. At least you’ll look good running late to class.  

Next time you pull an all-nighter, remember the basics: leggings, not sweats; self-enhanced T-shirt or button-down, not hoodie; and flat boots or ‘plain Jane’ sneakers, not running shoes or Ugg boots. Being tired doesn’t have to mean looking sloppy.

aspizzi@syr.edu

Published on September 28, 2010 at 12:00 pm