From Posh to Passé: A Letter to my High School Wardrobe

To my high school wardrobe –

Many nights I have stayed up mulling over you. My stomach churns and cheeks burn red at the mere thought of the clothes I once so confidently stepped out in.

The fads I sought attention and validation from are now obsolete. What once made me feel empowered dustily sits in the back corner of my closet.

Bye, Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts have shrunk a few inches. Gone are the days of me trying to squeeze my thighs into these straitjacket shorts.

Tata, Tattoo Chokers

Tattoo chokers pulled every outfit together. It did not matter if I was extravagantly dressed or wearing leisurewear, the tattoo choker always applied. Now, the statement piece has evolved into gold chains and pearl strands. Lost but never forgotten, goodbye to my spectacularly dramatic Tumblr emo phase.

So Long, Ugg Boots

The classic tan, the black, the sparkly – Ugg boots were a staple in my winter wardrobe. Now they have shifted to bestocker and heftier with the adoption of Ugg minis and Ugg slippers. What was once comfy and cozy is now but a clunky relic of middle school days past.

Good Riddance, Gucci Belts

Paired with light washed skinny jeans, the Gucci belt was a covetable and heavily sought-after style. The weight of the large, gold logo Gucci belt has converted into chain-linked and double buckle Western belts. The belt that was once THE elegant accessory has diminished into a bold and bright reminder of what once was vogue.

Sayonara, Skinny Jeans

Routinely worn with a “Soft and Sexy” T-shirt from American Eagle, skinny jeans have matured into baggy mom jeans. Goodbye to the violent wiggle and jump I did as I yanked and jerked these constraints onto my legs.

My style preferences are under continuous revampment, a sign of the ebb and flow of the times. These quick shifts in my style catapulted me straight into the constricting chokehold of the fashion faux pas. I would never be caught dead wearing Bermuda shorts now. It would simply be a sartorial sin.

Seeking out the latest trends will always be a part of our nature. We exist through the constants of innovation and emulation. It makes us feel a part of a group.

While I now desire to adopt the style of whatever Kendall Jenner is wearing, it is more liberating to wear what flatters me and makes me feel confident. Wearing what I feel best in makes me feel like I can conquer anything. The world is mine.

Although I am no fashion forecaster, when a trend fades from high fashion to faux pas, it necessitates a mourning period. So, adios, au revoir and good riddance, my dear high school wardrobe, you will not be missed.

Strike Out,

Writer: Cassie DesVergers

Editor: Kate Corcoran

Graphics: Autumn Mattox

Gainesville