This year’s homecoming theme is A Different World – the 90’s show that gave us our love of HBCU culture. While we were admiring Hillman, looking at Dwayne’s flipped up glasses, and laughing at Ron, Whitley Gilbert was serving looks. I’ve pulled some of her cutest outfits so you can get inspiration and pop out like Hampton is Hillman.
Leather, leather, and… more leather.
Ladies, we always bring out the black leather jackets when it gets cold. But this year, let’s turn it up a notch. Whitley paired her leather jacket with a leather hat and pants. Don’t let the idea intimidate you, it’s just like wearing denim on denim! Coordinating materials is always stylish. Your outfit will be extremely cohesive and cause more than a few turned heads. Plus, leather and denim aren’t the only materials out there. Experiment with silk, fur, or lace for a unique homecoming look.
Turtle Necks
As you can see, Whitley was always good for a turtleneck and necklace combo. Take a page out of her book for Homecoming and pile some jewelry on top of your H&M sweater. Bold necklaces and earrings always spruce up a boring look. Or if you prefer minimal jewelry, try other accessories like the fabric in the first two pictures. Choose a color from the fabric of your favorite scarf and build your outfit around it. This homecoming, do something you’ve never seen anyone do before! Drape your scarf over your shoulder like Whitley. Be creative and inventive. With fashion, the sky is the limit!
Get Girly
If anyone is known for being a prissy character, it’s this girl. Channel your inner Whitley and pull something girly out of your closet for the concert or 12-5. A preppy sweater with a peter pan collar will make you look clean and collegiate. Or you can try wearing shades of pink or lavender. Soft colors always soften a tough look. Another tip you can use is changing up the neckline of an outfit. In the second photo, Whitley is wearing an off the shoulder dress showing off some décolletage. An off the shoulder look is feminine and alluring, showing a bit of skin but not too much.
Go All Out
If you have a pair of sparkly heels you’ve been saving or some wild looking jeans that are collecting dust, now is the time to wear them! Don’t hold back or shy away from wearing things that are different. Yes, you will attract attention. But not all attention is bad attention – there will definitely be people admiring the fit and complimenting you. Think about how confident you’ll feel after you rock that outfit! And if you don’t wear it now, when will you? College is the time to experiment with your style and do it unapologetically. And if you need some more encouragement, just recall the photo above of Whitley looking fierce in her huge fur coat and shades.
Homecoming is the time to pop out, ladies so do it fearlessly! Have fun and good luck!