Brittany D. Cowan

5 HBCU Fashion Must Haves

Published in N.C.Central University's Nothing But The Arts TONE Magazine (Published January 13, 2019)

While being a student at a Historically Black University (HBCU), as well as growing up around the HBCU culture, I have realized that the students that attend these fine institutions have very distinct fashion styles that are like NONE OTHER.

Styles on HBCU campuses are very diverse and they reflect each and every student's personality.

Even though every student's style is different, there are a few quintessential pieces that should be in every HBCU student's wardrobe.

Below, I have listed my Top 5 Fashion Must Haves for an HBCU student.

Click on the photos below for details on items.

1. UGG Boots

One thing that I like the most about UGG Boots is how unbelievably warm and comfortable they are.

I also like how gender- neutral UGGs are. Even though some UGG Boots are designed for men and women separately, any gender can still rock them with ease.

UGG Boots are also a must have for those cold winter days when you have class or when you have to run errands.

2. Windbreakers & Raincoats

These lightweight and space -friendly outerwear pieces are great for an on-the-go HBCU student.

For those chilly, rainy days on campus, these pieces are essential to have is your bag, especially if you forget your umbrella.

Also, most windbreakers and raincoats are unisex which makes shopping for one much easier.

3. Cool Headwear

Headwear is another Fashion Must Have for HBCU students.

Wearing a nice hat or cold- weather headband can spice up your outfit or keep you warm.

On the other hand, if you're having a bad hair or missed a few haircuts, these headwear items are GREAT for combatting those issues.

Here are a few items that are very common to see on HBCU campuses.

4. Going Out Outfits

As an HBCU student, it is expected "pop out" at about 75% of on and off campus events. From having a nice dress, cool jeans, fresh kicks, and fly heels, these outfits end up making a statement about you and your personality.

Also, having the right Going Out outfit can help individuals feel 10 times better about themselves and be more likely to take the night by storm.

A few Influencers' take on Going Out outfits

5. Business Casual & Professional Attire

The final, and what I would deem as the most important HBCU Fashion Must Have would be Business Attire. Not only is Business Attire important to have for HBCU students, but for college students in general.

In college, students are attending conferences, conducting presentations, and going to interviews every day. For each of these scenarios, most individuals are required to wear Business Professional or even Business Casual clothing.

Good Pieces for Business Attire:

Women's Business Casual:

Sweaters and cardigans
Slacks or Khaki pants
Tailored and pressed blouses ( brighter colors acceptable depending on occasion)
Skirts (neatly pressed and knee-length)
Flats or office appropriate heels (closed- toe)

Women's Business Professional:

Skirt or Pant Suit ( neutral colors; black, brown, gray, tan, or navy)
Tailored and pressed blouses & button-down shirts ( generally neutral colors)
Flats or office appropriate heels/ pumps (closed- toe)
Flesh-tone or dark-colored panty-hose
**Minimal jewelry and makeup for both business professional & casual

Men's Business Casual :

Khaki pants or Slacks( neatly pressed)
Long or Short sleeved button-down shirts
Sweaters
Polo shirts
Neutral colored belt
Loafers or Dress Shoes

Men's Business Professional:

Full suit ( include matching jacket and pants)
Neutral colored belt
Nude (skin-tone) or dark-colored
Collared shirt ( solid colors)
Solid color or simple patterned tie
Dress Shoes and Dark Socks (Dark leather shoes)

Also, in the future, individuals will most likely need some sort of Business Attire for their careers. So why not get a head start with looking professional in college? You would be at a disadvantage if you did not start your collection now.

You also never know who you may run into. Good first impressions are ESSENTIAL, and when you have on the right outfit, they usually turn out for the best.