Challenge 1: Rev up your denim

      I know the drill: SHORTS, A TEE, AND ALL-STARS. 

      I do not gravitate towards these things. I tend to dress differently from my peers. Okay I'm going to say it--- I am a big non-conformist. Never have I liked wearing the same things my friends would wear, even when I was still in grade school. And yes, they would make fun of me because I liked to wear pants, and not itsy bitsy denim shorts. Well I'm here to tell all of you who are afraid to stand up to the norm, that IT IS OKAY TO BE DIFFERENT. Wear pants. Wear slouchy tops. Wear mens' polos and button-downs. Wear mom jeans. Do all of these things and not give a damn what other people think. 

      With that being said, I am here to present a challenge to those who live in "the uniform". Here are three basic examples of denim preferences. I nominate YOU to take these simple steps into making fashion your own. Though you may be "breaking the rules", you'll definitely look cool doing so. 

EXHIBIT A: 

Muscle tee + denim shorts + All-Stars

EXHIBIT B: 

Crop top + bleached skinny jeans + sling bag with thin strap + loafers

EXHIBIT C: 

Denim jacket + black shorts + army boots

This is the only teenage uniform that I am pleased with, because it is the only one with CHARACTER. Androgyny, to me, is character.

UPDATE A: 

Give those muscle tees a rest and swap them for boxy tops, like these long-sleeved ones. They're cozy, minimalist, and incredibly chic. No need to bare your shoulders to look this good. Choose muted colors in grey, dirty white, and really pale pastels for a casual look.

UPDATE B:

Gender-less dressing is the thing right now. So why not give it a whirl? Go for subtle hints of menswear like a crisp button-down crop top that is still equally feminine. Instead of your go-to Topshop hoodie, a sleeveless jacket will do justice as your outerwear. Now for the footwear, it's either you go big or go home. Extra extra chunky brogues? That's cool.

UPDATE C:

For those who prefer grungy looks, this one's for you!!! Update your fave denim jacket with chelsea boots instead of Doc Martens. Do not be afraid of hats. They won't bite! Wear hats with sculptured wide brims like this one from YSL. A very fab yet youthful outfit! 

If you've tried any of these updates, comment below and send some photos! If you'd like to suggest some challenges as well, please feel free to share them below. 

BREAK THE RULES. 

Main Image: Rose Hartman / Archive Photos