Before truly beginning this post, I must apologize for how M.I.A I’ve been lately. My life, somehow, has surpassed what any sane human would consider to be a mess. I know as an 18 year old college student, I’m sort of entitled to being a mess, but as a fashion student at a prestigious art school, I have to constantly appear as if I have my life in complete order. Every so often, I deviate from this vicious (and highly unrealistic) standard, and dress a bit more like a typical college student (aka: sweatpants, t-shirt, Target moccasins).

The thing with clothing is that it has the power to influence. Clothing influences other’s perceptions of you, as well as one’s perception of themselves. It sounds superficial, yes, but for me, it’s both a positive and powerful thing. As a young adult dealing with 10-hour art projects, raging female hormones (I’ve literally been crying at everything lately), and various other ordeals; I have to find (relatively) healthy ways to cope. There are numerous coping mechanisms for the times when life implodes on itself and blasts you into the rubble: some go for a run or do yoga, many take haven in Smirnoff and Svedka, and others binge-watch Netflix for 12 hours straight.

As for me, I definitely enjoy (attempting) to both eat and sleep away my life problems, but mainly I just utilize makeup and clothing to conceal the fact that inside I am an absolute disaster. (I also drink wayyyy too much coffee- but honestly this is just an understandable survival mechanism for any college kid). Some may say that externally concealing any internal conflict isn’t healthy, but to me, dressing nice is way safer than Jello-shot-ing away your problems. Also, putting on a snazzy dress and your favorite lipstick makes you feel so darn good.

1. Your hair is probably greasy due to sorta-decreased hygiene, so put it up into a super sleek top-knot or ponytail. (Also, dry shampoo is great).

2. Put on a super-comfy outfit that looks like you put effort into your attire, but feels like you’re wearing pajamas (ex: t-shirt dress, printed leggings, etc.)

3. LOTS of accessories. This will make you look more glamorous than you actually feel.

4. Buy macaroons and coffee. You’re probably broke like I am, but cookies and caloric coffee drinks heal all wounds, so its totally worth it.