For universities such as Cornell, Greek life is a huge part of the social life on campus. From philanthropy to hosting events, the Greek community is very prevalent. Cornell University, alike many other universities has a winter rush process. Although cold, it allows for freshmen to take a semester to settle down prior to deciding whether Greek life is right for them. Once the new members pass through the initial month called the “new member period”, the pledge class is initiated. A day of change and acceptance into the sorority, it is a very important day filled with dress codes. With these requirements, it may feel hard to stand out amongst your pledge class, but this Fashionista realized accessorizing is the key.
Required to dress in a white, loose fitting dress, little to no makeup, and nude or tan heels, the newest members to a sorority may feel constricted in what they can wear on one of the most important days for them as Greek women. White dresses signify purity and innocence, something that the new members of each sorority are supposed to represent.
Each member of my pledge class had a different white dress, something we all were surprised to find. An uncommon color of dress, white is not often worn, and thus, is hard to accessorize. This Fashionista paired her white lace dress with the perfect little metallic belt, and an Alex and Ani with her letters on them, as well as a ring with her deltas. Her nude heels are pointed rather than rounded, a detail that makes the outfit a little more mature and serious. Perfectly curled hair complements that lack of makeup, which often is a refreshing look all together.
An event unique to the Panhellenic community, all sorority girls must undergo the process of initiation. Although it is unique to every chapter, white dresses and nude heels are the dress code to follow. Daunting as it is, white dresses complement most skin tones, highlight your eyes and hair, and certainty are a blank canvas to accessorize, so never be shy.
One Simple Change: Find yourself without a purpose to wear that white dress after initiation? I suggest throwing on a cute moto jacket, a pair of patterned tights and some cute booties for the perfect date night outfit. If you are feeling really spicy, a white dress is the perfect backdrop for a statement necklace.
