Finals Week Do’s and Don’ts

by Lauren Adams, ladams@smu.edu

Finals can be a style killer, but stress doesn’t have to mean sweatpants.

If your current look can be described as “unintentional ‘90s grunge,” we’ve got problems ... and not just the kind on your Calc exam.

You can be cozy and cute. Just a few simple swaps will take you from library geek to library chic.

DO Ditch the slippers.

Exhaustion is not an excuse for laziness. Try on equally comfy (but more socially acceptable) options like moccasins, your favorite flats, or even some colorful tennies. These boots don’t sacrifice style for comfort and warmth.

DON’T Clunk around the library in stilettos and stacked bangles.

I love a good Arm Party as much as the next girl, but when your accessories are distracting others from studying, it might be time to tone it down.

Keep it simple with a reliable watch or a twist-tie for when you need a fun bun to get your brain going.

DO Leave the PJs at home.

Sweatpants, pajama bottoms, and micro mini shorts are not OK for Fondy, even if it is open 24 hours. This is not your bedroom!

Opt for leggings or yoga pants for an effortless transition from study time to gym time.

DON’T Forget about basic hygiene.

You all know THAT guy in the back of the class whose hair is a mess and smells like he hasn’t slept in four days. Don’t channel him now because you’re “too busy” to do laundry or, I don’t know, shower...

Make time for make-up, even if it’s a swipe of mascara and a few dabs of concealer.

If you look good, you’ll feel good, and that’s important when the rest of your life (AKA finals for days) sucks.

DO Layer, layer, layer.

With weather as wacky as Dallas’, you’ll need to keep your options open.

Add a scarf and a sweater for the chilly mornings and make sure you’re wearing something appropriate underneath in case you need to strip down when the library’s AC breaks.

This option is bathrobe cozy, and undeniably cute.

And finally, DON’T forget about fun.

This might not be the week to hit Uptown, but there is life outside of exams.

Take some time to de-stress and go on a jog with your roomie, grab a coffee with your BFFs, or call your mom for a pep talk.

Scheduling study breaks can re-charge your burnt-out brain and keep you motivated for the long road ahead.

Best of luck on exams!