tattler magazine

That’s the immediate thought that goes through my mind when I see something/ someone which I find unsightly. Why should I bring this matter up? Why, because this month we’re discussing the issue of ‘back to school’. Nearly everyone goes through the “what should I wear to school” dilemma, especially on the first day of school. Everyone wants to make a lasting first impression. And a good one, for that matter – you definitely don’t want people remembering you for some fashion disaster. For people who have just left schools which had a uniform, some might consider it a blessing; others find it a total chore. Fashion allows one to show off individuality and uniqueness. On the other hand, some people have relatively ‘alternative’ taste in fashion. Don’t get me wrong, everyone has their own opinions and sense of fashion, but there are just some that are ‘faux pas’ to me.

‘Faux pas’ does not mean ‘not to do’ but really, it actually refers to a blunder. So technically, the common ‘faux pas’ we know of are not ‘no-no’s’ set in stone. Everyone is free to express themselves, and fashion is one of the best ways of doing so. Wouldn’t it be utterly boring for every individual you see on the train or bus or around campus looking gorgeous and well put-together? There wouldn’t be any gasps of shock/ horror or sighs of envy when we spot something bad or good. There wouldn’t be any interesting, okay, slightly gossipy, news to share with friends when bored during breaks between classes (or even bored DURING classes).

The 10 things that I’ve seen around campus, which I find downright quite wrong:

1. Girls who wear too short shorts when they don’t necessarily have the legs to pull it off. Ever seen unsightly cellulite? Or legs which are scarred with scabs?
2. Ladies with the wrong colour of foundation/concealer/powder! Are you trying the geisha look? It’s very important to get the right shade and blend well! It’s meant to be subtle and make you look flawless. NOT: look at me, I have dark eye circles I have to cover up.
3. People who wear ‘long’ tops which just aren’t long enough to wear with leggings. Worse still, people who wear those short long tops with TIGHTS. I have an issue with this obscene favourite of many Singaporean girls who try to channel Lindsay Lohan or Nicole Richie. Often, the leggings you find in Far East are not thick enough, especially after washing. The thinner they get, the more see through it becomes. The ‘long’ tops often don’t even cover your crotch or butt. Such an ensemble only highlights the widest part of your body, something nobody wants. Remember, leggings/tights are not a substitute for pants or skinnies.
4. Wearing caps when class is in session. I don’t know about you, but I find it rude. Then again, flat hat hair is another problem.
5. Fishnets. Four words: I don’t get it.
6. Two words. Leather pants. In our hot and humid weather, it’s just plain uncomfortable and sticky. Ewww.
7. “Invisible” bra straps. THEY AREN’T INVISIBLE. The strapless bra was invented for a reason.
8. For the guys, I really don’t need to see your uber-skinny arms or bulging muscles in that sleeveless wife-beater. Or, that favourite ARMY top of yours! Especially when you show up for class in them with your black flip flops… did you just get out of bed? Oxford shirts = much more polished.
9. Ladies, please do a side mirror check when trying on a button-down top. Nobody needs to see your bra with the holes in between, even when you’re standing. Indecent exposure!
10. Last but not least, women wearing socks with heels! Vanity does come at a price. Heels are meant to be sexy and make your legs look good. Socks are sloppy and will distract anything nice about your heels and legs. When on campus, there’s often a whole lot of walking to and fro classes, so unless you are a pro at doing alot of walking in heels, I recommend comfy flats – such as classic ballet flats.

Please take this commentary with a pinch of salt. It all depends on whether the individual can pull it off. Seriously. Most things that look good on models would not look as great even on a size 2 person. Other fashion trends are just too outrageous and quirky for everyday wear. It’s the sad reality that we go to school for an education, not to have a fashion parade. Nonetheless, what you wear should not get people’s attention for the wrong reasons.

4 things which some may consider ‘don’t’s but I consider ‘do’s:

1. Chipped nail polish – who can afford to get weekly mani/pedis? Especially when they’ll get chipped with all that typing on the keyboard.
2. Wearing spectacles instead of contacts – geek chic is always cool! With the right frames to flatter your face shape, spectacles can do wonders. Isn’t superman much hotter with his spectacles than without? Plus, it makes you look like an intellectual!
3. Wearing different patterns – as long as one is more distinct than the other, this makes the whole outfit look more interesting.
4. Hoodies – just because they’re so darn comfy and lecture theatres are freezing!

Bottom line is: I think students in Singapore have to get used to the idea of dressing up to go to school and looking presentable.

Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Dare to be different and it might pay off. You might get recognised for your unique style. But I still believe that there are just some things that are definite don’ts.

*FYI: At the university I’m studying at, there’s actually a list of rules on attire. Imagine that. Only such things would happen in Singapore. Then again, I don’t think anyone actually enforces the rules.