Study for Finals in Style

it's that time again

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The end of the semester is nearing, and the pressure is on. As we prepare for marathon study sessions assembling and re-writing a semester's worth of notes, making schedules, and dotting our desks with post-its, we think we have all our bases covered. Yet, there is yet another challenge for which we must prepare. Finals week brings a slew of style challenges. Inevitably, appearance takes second (or fifteenth) priority, and the result ain't pretty.

You know what I'm talking about. Red eyes. Saggy skin. Coffee in hand. Baggy sweats. Knotted, greasy hair. The end of the semester isn't cute. And while it is only natural that fashion will take a backseat to academic needs at this crazy time, needn't completely sacrifice your look. I promise. Think of it this way: Just as you prepare to endure the academic stress of finals, you may equally prepare for the fashion challenge that awaits you. Here's how:

1)

Set out comfortable, stylish clothing in advance. Act as though you were a stylist prepping a photo shoot, getting all the looks arranged. Comfy pants, jackets, cotton tops, cozy scarves. Identify several go-to outfits to wear during finals mayhem that will be comfortable, and easy to pull off. Think of it as a uniform. Planning ahead will save you from contemplating clothing when you have much bigger things to worry about.

2)

But, how can you lay your clothes out if you don't know what to wear in the first place? I suggest choosing basic pieces that require little thought in throwing together. See Blake Lively's look below:

(IMG) Lively combines trusty basics: black boots, dark-wash denim, a camel coat, and a cozy scarf. You can easily achieve this type of look during exams without a second thought. Just identify your go-to basics and throw them all together. The best part? You can probably get away with wearing all of them several times in the week. Hey-No one's judging!

3)

Make your life easier by simplifying your beauty routine. Do you usually wash your face then follow up with a series of steps? While I don't recommend forgoing hygiene altogether (for obvious reasons), you can get ready for bed in a pinch with makeup-removing face-wipes and a quick brushing of the teeth. If you have time, slap on some moisturizer. Keep it next to your bed so you don't forget!