Few campuses can rival the University of Miami’s proximity to a major fashion hub. Even when using responsible spending habits, any trip to a Miami establishment is a reminder that the cost of living is far from that of a typical college town. Whether your laundry pile is taller than your boyfriend or you’re just gearing up for spring cleaning, decluttering your closet could actually increase your fashion choices. You might be familiar with the concept of a capsule wardrobe.
Celebrity stylist Karen Williams described it as the formula for every perfect outfit. Having styled clients from Beyoncé to David Beckham, she told Woman & Home, “If you shop smart, you’ll build a collection of key pieces that will stand the test of time and give you fantastic cost-per-wear.”
So say goodbye to microtrends, and while you’re at it, donate those cheetah-print mini shorts.
This strategy allows your accessories to do the talking, while simple pieces form the foundation for endless mixing and matching. In return, this investment will save you time, money and energy.
As a senior at the University of Miami, I’ve developed several tricks for making the most out of a small collection. Below, I’ve compiled a guide to your first five purchases for developing a capsule wardrobe, based on insights from other women in their final semester at UM.
Basic Black Tank
A classic in every woman’s rotation, the black tank is a key player for building daytime and nighttime looks. Also known as the basic black top, it pairs perfectly with any pants, shorts or skirts.
Sam Sekeres, a biomedical engineering senior from Shaker Heights, Ohio, said that if she could only select one item for every UM girl to buy, a black tank would undoubtedly be her pick.
Given the city’s humidity, it’s especially important to wear light, breathable pieces. The Body Tank by Danielle Guizio is a highly flattering and comfortable option, composed of 79% nylon and 21% spandex. This top, retailing for $38, features a built-in bra and adjustable straps.
Little black skirt
“I noticed my style became darker and sparklier compared to the basic, wholesome jeans and a top I would wear out in New Jersey,” said Gracie Crutchfield, a senior studying advertising and psychology with experience in beauty public relations.
Now, of course, I wouldn’t be selling you on a skirt if it didn’t have built-in shorts. Whether you’re going to a restaurant, a house party, or a nightclub, you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort to build a feminine outfit. This low-rise skort from Zara is made of 62% polyester, 32% viscose and 6% elastane. Retailing for $45, this skort lets you run around until your heart’s content.
Everyday jeans
It can be difficult to find jeans that consistently fit like a glove, especially after a good meal. My past experience as a Reformation sales associate might make me a biased critic, but I have yet to try on a pair of jeans as flattering and as comfortable as theirs.
As the crop top fad fades, many women are opting for longer tops and low-rise pants. For a relaxed, classy look, I tend to reach for low-rise, straight jeans with clean hems and no rips, which I can wear in both professional and casual settings.
Addie Prince, a business and marketing student from Greenville, South Carolina, said she can’t live without her low-rise jeans, but she realizes they “aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.”
If you want to give them a try, I recommend Reformation’s Charlee Low Rise Straight Jeans, composed of 80% regeneratively grown cotton and 20% recycled cotton. For a sustainable yet stylish choice priced at $178 (with free hemming), these jeans are here to stay.
Matching set
Who would’ve guessed the 1970s tracksuit trend would make a comeback? Even in Miami’s heat, students are all about matching sets.
The city’s random, 50-degree “cold fronts” and heavily air-conditioned classrooms make owning at least one sweat set essential. Adding a matching, solid-colored set to your wardrobe is a two-for-one deal, letting you swap out the top or bottom and expand your outfit options.
“Whether it’s a matching workout set, hoodie and sweats, or long sleeve with shorts, I love anything that comes as a set,” said Kolleen Ebert, a business and communications senior from Buffalo, Minnesota. Ebert has extensive experience working in fashion public relations. She explained that matching pieces instantly make her feel more put-together while still comfortable.
Aritzia is a classic destination for soft, lounge-worthy yet elevated sweats. In the shade Jazz Blue, the combined total of the Cozy Sweatfleece Perfect Hoodie and the Mega Straight Sweatpant is $163.
Tall black boots
“Every UM girl needs black boots for clubbing,” said Crutchfield. “After freshman year at Sandbar is over, no one wears sneakers out anymore.”
However, it’s important to find a pair of boots that is durable while not too expensive.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Jazmine Halawa is a senior majoring in media management and advertising with experience in fashion marketing. She said black heeled boots are her No. 1 staple item, but they must be comfortable to walk and stand in for extended periods. She added that, given the crowded nature of nightclubs, they can’t be too nice where you’d care if people stepped on them.
Steve Madden’s Berkleigh Black boots are a popular choice, featuring a 3.25-inch heel and a 1-inch platform. Retailing for $129.95, these sturdy boots have got you covered for the rest of your party career.
Once set with your first five purchases, you’re well on your way to living an easier, more affordable and more fashionable lifestyle at UM.
words_kayla singer. photo_amber mason & ben morrison.
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