After a long week of school and work, a lively night on the town is just the thing you need to let loose and forget about stress. A night out is even more fun in a fabulous outfit, from casual kickbacks to formal soirées.
At more casual venues, like bars in Tigerland, go for an effortless-yet-polished look. The idea here is looking carefree while maintaining sexy elements within the outfit. A sheer, chiffon blouse paired with a statement necklace, bandage skirt and wedge heels is a great choice. The flowy top will photograph wonderfully and the bandage skirt will hug your curves.
Keep hair and makeup relatively simple. A bit of shimmering lip gloss and bronzer with mascara is a quick and easy look that will last through a long night of dancing. Don’t forget primer to keep makeup in place.
An upscale situation, such as a birthday outing or a night out at the M Bar, calls for the best of attire. I love dressing up, and this is the perfect opportunity to wear the most daring outfits. Break out the highest heels and best cocktail dress, and get ready to paint the town red.
If you’re super curvy, I recommend showing it off. A body-con dress in a daring red or a jewel tone will surely make you the center of attention. If you’re self-conscious about your midsection, slip on a pair of Spanx to smooth everything out.
On the other hand, if you’re rather slender with a boyish figure, a peplum dress creates the illusion of curves. The same effect can be achieved with color blocking. Choose brighter colors for the hips and bust area, darker colors for the waist and mid-section.
Don’t be afraid to incorporate mixed media for the fancier occasions. Go for glittering golds and metallics; bold accessories will make an outfit more dynamic. Shoulder-grazing feather earrings are in right now, so consider pairing them with one of the above outfits.
When it comes to heels, I say the higher the better. Invest in gel inserts so your feet aren’t killing you — I use Dr. Scholl’s. Platform pumps are always a classic, but T-strap heels are great too. Pick daring colors or interesting prints so that you don’t get lost in a sea of black pumps.
Have fun with makeup. I can’t say no to a smoldering smokey eye or a fierce red lip. Just remember, if your eye makeup is heavy, keep the rest of your face simple.
Most importantly, confidence is your best asset. Don’t ever leave the house without it.
Shamiyah Kelley is a 19-year-old mass communication junior from Irmo, S.C.
