Our Editor's Polished & Productive Guide for Back-to-School
As the new school year begins, it's time to embrace the exciting journey ahead. The old adage "look good, feel good" holds some truth in terms of self-confidence, yet as a busy students, we know how difficult that can be to maintain. In the hustle and bustle of our college lives, it's common to get caught up in the idea that self-care has to be elaborate and time-consuming. However, it doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're a returning student or a fresh face on campus, we've rounded up a collection of oh-so-easy essentials that will help you make the most out of every moment. From dashing between lectures, exploring the city of New Orleans, or participating in extracurricular activities, our TU Fashion editors have some ideas.
Samantha Goldman: A quintessential product of mine is the IT Cosmetics CC Cream with an additional SPF 50. The untamed NOLA sun affects us all, and this product is an ideal multitasker. I’ve been using it for years, and it has yet to let me down. It offers hydration and protection while also providing a color-correcting base without committing to a full-coverage foundation. Another staple is a set of clear blue light glasses, which can easily complement any outfit. Not only are they a convenient choice for makeup-free days, but they help reduce eye strain, lead to longer study sessions, and prevent headaches. For someone who spends extensive hours on laptop tasks, they prove to be perfect.
Camille Buckner: My essentials are accessories, which I’ve found to be one of the easiest ways to elevate any outfit. My current favorite accessories are bangles and lacy trim. Bangles can go with anything and add that extra hint of glamor, making a fun clinking sound. While bangles lean into a more luxe aesthetic, lacy trim or ribbon provides a more vintage style to any outfit. I typically purchase trim at antique stores, but you can also find beautiful trim at craft stores such as Michaels. Tying ribbon or trim around your neck, in your hair, or around a pair of pants is a super cute and classy way to augment a look!
Carly Chaiken: Silk scrunchies are a necessity of mine. Whether I'm rushing to class, studying in the business school, or hanging out with friends, you'll always find one wrapped around my wrist and another tucked safely in my bag (just in case). This not only adds a touch of personality and spunk to my messy bun or ponytail but also protects my hair without the harshness of a regular hair tie. Especially when the heat becomes unbearable, you can always catch me rocking an updo without having to worry about creases in my hair or heat on my neck.
Kim Ramos: My current favorite product that I’m using on a daily basis is the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen. It’s a pretty adaptable product, whether I want a light coverage day by pairing it with my moisturizer, or want to achieve a fuller coverage moment by mixing it with a medium-coverage skin tint. It’s proven to hold up against the sun and sweat that comes with living in the South. Another alternative that I really enjoy is the Innisfree Daily UV Defense. It’s a slightly lower SPF, but it has absolutely no white cast, and is an ideal option for anyone who prefers no tint!
Zoë Dupre: Sunglasses are my go-to item, and they never let me down. A pair of sunglasses boost any look, and currently, I'm obsessed with oval, narrow sunglasses that are a very 90’s model, “Carrie Bradshaw “Esc. You can never go wrong with a little black pair of these; I found mine for less than $10. I particularly adore Mushroom’s unique collection of eyewear. The pair with fleur-de-lis patterns is my all-time favorite and was adored by everyone - I unashamedly have about 4 pairs of them. Last but not least, I have found great finds while thrifting to keep things affordable. Just recently, I struck gold at Big Star Vintage and Costume on Freret Street, a spot close to campus and stocked full of amazing finds. I definitely recommend stopping by.