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Tips for Getting Dressed for a Night Out

For college girls, getting dressed to go out isn't the same thing as getting glammed up for a formal dinner out. College parties (and, now that I'm 21, bars and clubs) are sweaty, crowded, and chaotic. The vibe is sexier, and the perfect thing to wear is more likely from Urban Outfitters than Ungaro. Plus, such hectic settings come with their own set of practical concerns.

To help you out, here are my top ten things to consider when getting ready to go out in college:

1. Wear stuff you don't care about TOO much.
Obviously you want to look great and wear something special. But the potential for being sweaty and getting spilled on at your average college event is high -- this is not a Blair Waldorf house party.


Pick something washable, like an embellished sweatshirt to pair with pleather leggings. Or rock a great dress or jumpsuit, just not one of your most prized possessions or biggest splurges. Same goes for jewelry and accessories -- your fave bracelet could easily fall off on the dance floor, so don't risk it.

2. Pick a practical bag.
I love tiny little box clutches as much as the next person. But the truth is, when I'm going out, I actually feel the need to be more prepared, not less. My little stash of just-in-case Advil could save my night from a (literal) headache. It's super important to have some money, your ID, and your phone at all times, especially when you're out at night. The prettiest little clutch could maybe hold one of those things.

Plus, who wants to be clutching that clutch all night? A small-ish, neutral crossbody bag with handy pockets is a lifesaver. Find one you love that goes with most of your night out wardrobe, and rock it everywhere.

3. Know how to pack said bag.

ven said crossbody will not be able to hold everything your go-to tote does. So I have a couple tricks I use to pack a smaller bag.

First, I'm a bit more discerning with what I take. Here is my opportunity to get rid of some of the junk in my purse I'm too lazy to throw out. Second, I condense my must-haves -- I put a dose of the aforementioned emergency Advil in a ziploc instead of taking the whole bottle, and if my bag can't fit my wallet, I tuck my credit card, ID, and a couple bills into a safe pocket of my purse. This is also a great opportunity to use a cute ID holder.

4. Pick (somewhat) practical shoes.

Yes, I know, you want to wear your hottest heels every chance you get. And sometimes, they are great for a night out at college. When an event is close to your dorm or you aren't planning on staying long, go ahead and rock whatever shoes you choose.

5. Take a new risk or pair something unexpected.
So far, all of the tips I've given you have been about boring practical concerns. But when I go to a party, I like to have fun changing up my style. Often, that approach ends up working well with the "wear stuff you care about less" rule, because I end up pulling things I've totally forgotten about out of my closet in lieu of wearing a favorite.
Parties are the time to take your look to the next level. Accent your outfit with a bold statement, like a major necklace, unexpected pop of color, or even a unique accessory like fingerless gloves!

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