Serving the campus of the University of Alabama since 1894

The Crimson White


Serving the campus of the University of Alabama since 1894

The Crimson White

Serving the campus of the University of Alabama since 1894

The Crimson White

Ideas for holiday outfits you can recycle

Well, it’s that time of year again: the seemingly never-ending holiday season. You get Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s back-to-back. But let’s be honest. Even with all that holiday cash, most college students are on a tight outfit budget for all of the upcoming festivities. So, what’s a fashionista to do? Recycle.

All you need is a few basics to get through any holiday season: a great pair of tailored pants, a fitted jacket of your choosing (leather bomber, wool pea coat or whatever), a chunky sweater (which is very in right now), a pair of heels, a pair of boots and a few tees to throw around.

For Thanksgiving: With all the turkey and ham, you’re going to want to go with a more comfortable outfit. After all, you’re around your family, so it’s okay to go a little more casual. I promise Grandma won’t mind. Pair some fitted – but not too tight – jeans with a comfy sweater and knee-high boots. For extra coziness, grab a scarf and some thick socks to peek out above your shoes for a pop of color. Since Thanksgiving is a time for family, if you have any simple jewelry or accessories gifted to you, break them out to show your appreciation.

For Christmas: Depending on how fancy your family dinner is, the same pair of tailored jeans you wore for Thanksgiving works for Christmas too. If it’s chilly, take this as a cue to layer your look. Start off with a graphic tee or a neutral tank. Throw on a chambray button-down for a more casual look and a chiffon button-down for a more classy option (Just be sure to wear a tank under your see-through top. You don’t want to scare Grandpa). That great jacket you own works in both instances. Lastly, if your family dinner is dressy, find a pair of chunky heels in a bold color, like red or primary blue, to give your look some life. If your dinner is more casual with a few kids running wild, your Thanksgiving boots will do just fine.

For New Year’s: Whether you’re ringing in the New Year at home with Mom and Dad or throwing a kegger with your Alabama friends, you’ll need the perfect dress. Go a little out of your comfort zone for New Year’s. Aside from Halloween, it’s the perfect holiday to rock a sparkly black dress, a frilly frock or even a swatch of crimson lipstick. The same bold heels you wore a week ago on Christmas are perfect for a night of fun and partying. If you’re at home, it’s still okay to dress up. Opt for a silk dress and neon oxford shoes for a playful New Year’s wardrobe. Don’t forget the crazy 2013 glasses to top it off.

I know some people think recycling fashion or clothes is a bigger sin than breaking the 10 Commandments, but when the holidays roll around, it’s a perfect solution to looking fabulous and saving some cash for all the post-season sales. Plus, when working with neutrals and wardrobe staples, you really can’t go wrong. Happy holidays everyone!

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