I think it’s time we have a personal chat Mizzou (-ites? –ians?). I have tried to ignore it, I have put it on the back burner, I have tried to get over it, but here is something you just need to know: Some of the outfits here look like you drove the struggle bus to campus, windows open, blaring Rebecca Black and _then_ found some sweats and pulled them on. That’s how little thought I think must go into going out in public for some college students. Not all of you of course: the guy knocking it out of the park everyday in French, kudos. Those chunky sweaters and scarves in history? Much appreciated. However, the perpetrator list here and across American college campuses is numerous and I for one am sick of it. I know you will say you don’t care, but as a college student, I know a liar when I see one. And before I get knocked by the world-saving college student saying that there are much more important things than an outfit, I know. I agree with you, wholeheartedly even. However, in this regard we aren’t talking about trends or even a certain style you should follow but basic fashion rules that are going to keep you motivated, confident and looking like a Tiger in control.

**Rule 1:** The big question: What do I wear? I know sweatpants are comfortable and easy, and I am not saying you should not wear them on occasion. It happens, but there are a few basics that are easy to wear and actually cost less than your MU Bookstore attire. Cardigans, basic white tee shirts, black jeans, ballet flats and a pair of great boots are the essential pieces for everyday campus life that can transition in so many ways. Just the combination of these things together can make a great outfit, and separately these pieces can be made preppy, sporty or trendy. Just think of all you can do with a white tee shirt: Pair with a floral skirt or jeans or military boots. These pieces I just mentioned are your essentials, and all the trends I spotlight in this column can supplement these basics.

**Rule 2:** Basics mean invest. Spend within your means, but don’t feel bad when you see what you bought for what price. Cost-per-wear for cardigans, basic T-shirts and layering pieces are sky-high, so don’t fret over one bill. Think of that one bill as being a one-time lump sum for something you will wear for at least five years. 

**Rule 3:** Adversely, save where it matters. It is all what I call the “Forever 21 fast-fashion effect”: if you thought the trend was borderline trashy/wack/or completely Gaga months or even weeks ago, do your Visa — and yourself — a favor by buying one piece for under $20 from a vintage shop or a fast fashion retailer like Forever 21 (and yes, I just gave them another shout-out).

**Rule 4:** Draw inspiration. Why cheat yourself because you have the excuse that you have to roll out of your warm bed for an 8 a.m. class? I look at it as beating my exhaustion with the knowledge that at least I feel good about myself. It sounds dumb, but just by putting on your favorite item you can feel so much better and even feel more put together. Believe it or not, the outside can definitely reflect on your work and attitude. Clothes are a fast and easy statement about who you are, so make the most of them.

One more key thing: This is about you. Bet you weren’t expecting that. I am not saying here that we should be clones of another or like the same things when it comes to fashion or style. Quite the opposite, actually. I want you to feel good and be confident and exude who you truly are. Now is the time to experiment and blame it on being young. Seriously, you have no more excuses to be a walking billboard for your college team or (even worse) your high school. It does not take a lot of money, skill or time. I mean what’s the worst that can happen? It _is_ just clothes after all.