My senior year of high school, I discovered that I had a unique passion: curating eclectic outfits that made me feel confident. Prior to this revelation, I typically wore the same clothes to school every day, often Nike shorts and large T-shirts. While there is nothing wrong with this, I noticed this habit creating problems in my daily life. I felt myself slacking in school and daily activities, feeling unmotivated and lackadaisical.  

However, when I discovered how enjoyable it was to curate various creative outfits, I found myself excited to wake up every morning and explore my closet’s many possibilities. It was as if fashion had given me a new a motivational mindset, and as a result I felt more productive and disciplined. My experience is not unique to me — this mindset is shared by many on Furman’s campus. Rosemary Cruse ’23 reflected that “the act of putting on a cute outfit makes [her] feel put together, which makes [her] motivated in other aspects of life.”  

For those struggling through the grind of the day-to-day, fashion could provide a solution to their lack of daily motivation. In addition to this, fashion also has the power to evoke connection with others, which is especially important now, as many feel disconnected from their normal communities. Personally, I have received various questions and remarks regarding my clothing pieces while on campus, often from strangers. Abigail Newcomb ‘24 has had similar experiences. She said that just this week, she sparked a conversation with a group of girls she did not know over a pair of patchwork jeans from Amazon. Similarly, Cruse said that she is now friends with Gabby Strother ’21 because Strother complimented her outfit when they met in the library.

Of course, as Newcomb noted, “there will always be days where sweatpants and a sweatshirt is the outfit of choice,” but it can be more fun to get up every morning when you are thinking about what new outfit to create for the day ahead. So, don’t be afraid to mix it up and curate a cool outfit! I guarantee that you will approach your day with a new sense of appreciation and excitement.  

GREENVILLE SHOPPING RECCOMENDATIONS FROM ABIGAIL, ROSEMARY, AND REAGAN: Miracle Hill Thrift Store, Dress Up in Downtown Greenville, Anthropologie, Clothes Mentor and other thrift stores around Greenville.