Collegiate Times

Image: 2011-05-03 23:31:46

Peppered with celebratory whatever and inspirational blah blah, an annual flood of state-funded jargon is set to descend on Lane Stadium in the coming weeks.

As the graduating class fights their hangovers, the administration will showcase their pride and budget through longwinded speeches venerating the individuality, innovation and distinction of our graduates. 

In contrast, any visible "distinction" will be largely eliminated by the traditional enforcement of overpriced, synthetic wizarding garb. Although the flat hats and colored tassels are largely ridiculous, the robes themselves do more for the student body than is recognized. They hide it.

For several blessed hours, jorts, jeggings and other wardrobe blunders will be out of sight. I will not spend my graduation distracted by horrific tan lines or blinding cleavage, but the things that truly count —downloading apps, sending snarky text messages and organizing my contacts.

The beauty of the occasion is not felt by all however, as it marks the inevitable shift toward adulthood and a lifestyle where fashion free-for-alls are frowned upon. But before you consider closing your bar tab to save for a new wardrobe, check out four great looks for new graduates that will impress your boss without distressing your bank account.

Omar Ahmed

Omar's degree in engineering has landed him a contract with VDOT, but it is his makeover that will land him contact with the ladies. As he enters a league of professionals known more for their stutter than their swagger, Omar seeks to retain some loyalty to his inner geek while being outwardly chic.

By mixing subtle patterns with a cohesive color scheme and well-tailored garments, we sought to pay some homage to the classic nerd's affinity for prints in a stylish and professional context.

A checked button-down shirt and vintage tie provide just the right amount of sass without compromising class, while timeless khakis are a solid everyday choice and can easily be dressed up with a jacket or dressed down by skipping the tie.

Shirt: $3.50

Pants: $3.50

Tie: $1

Belt: $1

Shoes: $3

= $12

Amanda Wehan

A fearless marketing major with serious drive, Amanda has been interning with Target for over a year. This summer, she will be moving to Charlottesville and joining its team as the youngest manager in the company. The upside — a serious paycheck and secure job. The downside — dealing with those pesky older employees vying for her position, and legs.

In keeping with the red and khaki Target dress code, we set out to find a new look that asserted a professional edge despite her age. Although the contrast of red on khaki is generally unflattering, we found a vintage blouse and high waisted skirt with complementary hues and structured, but comfortable, cuts.

To combat the toll of being on her feet for most of the day, we paired her outfit with comfortable flats and an easy-to-maintain hairstyle before finishing it off with classic vintage jewelry. Can we get a manager to aisle 11 for a total babe alert.

Blouse: $3.50

Skirt: $3.50

Belt: $1

Shoes: $1

Earrings: $1:50

Necklace: $1

=$11.50

Sara Mitchell

After spending a semester scouring job listings for that perfect gig, outgoing SPPS director Sara Mitchell snagged a reporting job in California — but she has to accept the heat of the desert along with the job offer.

To help her brave the heat and still look neat, we prowled the thrift store for separates that could be layered for breezy desert nights and shed for 110 degree afternoons. By pairing a navy skirt, white tank and red cardigan, we developed a classic color palette and flattering silhouette with professional panache, without compromising comfort and breathability.

To complete the look, a red belt, blue flats, button earrings and gold chain necklace add flair without bulk, while a classic bob haircut provides a professional change with far less weight and maintenance than her longer locks. Talk about hotter than the Fourth of July...

Skirt: $3.50

Tank: $3.50

Cardigan: $3.50

Belt: $1

Necklace: $2

Earrings: $1

Shoes: $3.50

=$18

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A version of this article appeared in the May 4 issue of the Collegiate Times.