By Mari Sato and Dakota Rose
In our previous article, you may have felt a little called out. But luckily for you, and for us (if you’re taking this seriously), we’re back with some alternatives to our blacklist that will serve the same function in a more stylish way. If you’re looking to impress your class crush before the semester is over, listen up and take notes! Girls, pay attention to style and having the right look can really up your game. We spoke to SMU about the best alternatives to blacklisted items.
Instead of Flip-Flops
The number one “op” for girls when it comes to men’s fashion was flip flops/sandals; however, we hear you boys! They are easy and comfortable, but you are not at the beach. “I hate when guys just like walk around wearing flip-flops, that’s just so unattractive,” says Camila Escobar, senior Theatre major. Don’t worry, all hope is not lost. Let us provide you with an alternative: Birkenstock Bostons. Bostons are backless, breathable, and comfortable. They’re easy to slip on and off while still keeping some things (your toes) for the imagination.
Instead of the slim-fit pants your mom bought for you
“I’m a big baggie jeans and a sweatshirt or loose t-shirt vibe. That’s what I find super sexy,” says Dani Echavez, a Junior Psychology and Markets & Culture major. Your slim-fit pants are out, and girls are begging you to buy a good pair of loose-fitting jeans. Guys have found that baggy pants are not only stylish but also more relaxed. “I like looser fitting things because they’re more comfortable,” says a senior Business and Data Science major. Jeans are a forever staple and endlessly versatile, but your skinny jeans and fitted khakis have got to go. Turn something NOT into something HOT, and buy those baggy jeans.
Instead of Hoodies
A comfy hoodie is undoubtedly a staple, some excel in design while others do not. Your high school lacrosse and frat formal hoodie fall in the latter category. Those are better suited for nostalgia. That said, a cool hoodie, especially one from a favorite band or a memorable trip, can be a great conversation starter while being stylish. Nevertheless, Kirk Ogunrinde, a senior Journalism and Computer Science major, offers an elevated solution. “Get yourself sweaters. They’re also comfortable, so it does the same job as your hoodies,” says Ogunrinde. Women agree. “I love a man in a sweater, especially a grandpa sweater,” says Camila Escobar. There’s something about a simple sweater that just looks like you are put together so you at least look the part when you show up hungover at your 9 am class.
Instead of Gym Shorts
Now, as previously aforementioned, all gym shorts are not created equal. While we encourage you to ditch the mesh and anything whose color can be named after a fish (we’re looking at you, Salmon), there are acceptable and, dare we say, attractive gym shorts options. Namely, Gym Shark’s Arrival 5in Inseam Shorts in neutral colors (think black, brown, grey, navy, beige) are a great alternative. We’re looking for gym shorts that say “relaxed but not like ‘I just got back from the gym relaxed,’” to quote Andrés Carbonell. Another great alternative if you’re looking for something more comfortable is sweatshorts. Lo and behold, we found some stylish ones at Lululemon. What we’re trying to get across is neutral colors and a 5in inseam. No mesh! “If you’re not playing basketball, get rid of them.” Andrés Carbonell says.
Style does not need to come at the cost of comfort. There are elevated solutions to all of your favorite blacklisted items. Elevating your style may even elevate your game! We think Escobar said it best: “Put a little more effort in how you dress because the girls are paying attention.” So buy those Birkenstocks and trade in your frat formal hoodie for a grandpa sweater. It will make a difference!
