Easy, Eye-Catching Outfits For Your First Day of Virtual Class

The first day of college classes is quickly approaching and with it arises the question: What should I wear to my first day of online college classes? The start of a new semester provides the opportunity to make a fresh first impression on classmates and professors. Putting effort into what you look like on your first day of class sets you up for a great semester. Looking good helps you feel good and helps shift your mindset so you can become productive while at home. Plus, virtual classes make it much easier to look put-together because you never have to worry about whether your top matches your bottoms!

After one semester of virtual college classes, I have picked up some tricks on what looks best on camera and how you can look your best from the waist up. Here are my tips to help you shine from head to waist and have everyone wondering ‘who is she?’.

Hair & Makeup

What I have taken away from previous online classes and meetings is that subtle makeup is key. I like to focus on the eyes and keep the face bare. Depending on your camera quality, your camera should softly blur your face, so I wouldn’t worry about doing a full face of makeup. To make your eyes pop I recommend focusing on eyeliner, mascara, and, depending on preference, adding some light shimmer eyeshadow to the middle of your eyelid. Shimmer eyeshadow will help bring light to your eyes, and minimal eyeliner/mascara will add definition. This is the perfect time to play around and try something new, like colored eyeliner. Virtual classes provide a great opportunity to play around with your hairstyle, makeup, or outfit because you are only on camera for a few hours and can change afterward.

I am the first to admit that I usually never style my hair. My go-to looks are either brushing my hair upside down and flipping it over for extra volume or pulling it up into a high pony. This semester I want to challenge myself to try out different (easy) hairstyles. I like to get a haircut before the start of a new semester because it refreshes your look. If you have been putting off your next haircut for a long time, consider this a sign that maybe the time is now.

Tops

I love the look of collared tops that have a relaxed fit. Wearing a top with a collar makes it look like you put some effort into your look while the relaxed fit keeps you comfortable. Look for linen, cotton, or silk tops for maximum comfort.

I once read in a fashion magazine that it is best to wear brightly colored tops on video calls because they pop. Neutral colors will fade away, and black may wash you out on camera. If you are looking to make an impact on your first day of virtual classes, wear something colorful. Here are some bold sweaters I love.

Accessories

Earrings, headbands, necklaces, and glasses! Wearing a simple necklace or putting on some earrings will elevate even the most basic of outfits. A current trend that I have recently noticed on my virtual calls is wearing lots of jewelry with sweatshirts. For example, layering necklaces and wearing hoop earrings will add a little bit of spice to your outfit even if you cannot make yourself change out of leisurewear. Blue light glasses are also ‘in’ at the moment, so try out a few different styles to change up your look. Adding a simple headband always looks great too.

Bottoms

Bottoms are a very easy category where you can essentially put anything on…or not (just make sure not to stand up and walk around). Nine times out of ten, I will wear leggings, yoga pants, or classic sweatpants to class. You should wear something comfortable and enjoyable to sit in for long periods of time.

Check out my previous blog post on sustainable clothes for back-to-school season for more outfit inspiration. Happy first day of virtual college class!

XO, Alicia