Weisel: Try to dress conservatively — even in warmer weather

When the weather makes it feel like summer in the middle of March, it is tempting to break out the summer wardrobe — in the middle of March — and walk around like you’re on the beach … even though it’s the middle of March. When the weather makes it feel like summer in the middle of March, it is tempting to break out the summer wardrobe — in the middle of March — and walk around like you’re on the beach … even though it’s the middle of March.

While I love the warm weather as much as the next person and am excited for my spring wardrobe, I’ve also been horrified at some of the outfits I’ve seen on my classmates as they stroll into class. From spandex shorts to revealing tank tops, I think that students should take a little more care in what they’re wearing to class, despite the weather.

I’ve written before about dressing up for class rather than dressing down, but this is another problem entirely. I can’t tell you what you can or cannot wear, but I feel strongly that, when dealing with professors and colleagues in a classroom setting, there is an air of professionalism that needs to be maintained.

As students, our futures are completely blank, whether we think they are or not. We never know when we’re going to need that one professor’s recommendation or when that guy we’re sitting next to might be the key to getting a job. When surrounded by people who have the potential to be the turning points to our futures, there is no knowing when we will need to make sure our first impression will count.

To remain professional, dressing not only well, but appropriately, is important. You can’t assume what the other person is going to think of you, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and dress a little more conservatively for class. You can never know when that one person in your class who you think is too conservative might be the one to help your future the most.

If professionalism isn’t enough of a reason, there’s a much more practical reason to keep things covered: air conditioning. We live in the 21st century and attend a University that provides these services for us on a daily basis. Every academic building is air conditioned, and, while some are warmer than others, all are cooler than the warm weather.

Practically speaking, it is not worthwhile to dress in your skimpiest outfits when you’re going to class. Inevitably, you are going to get cold in your classroom and complain to the person sitting next to you about how cold you are. Don’t forget that that person could be the key to your future. You don’t want to be seen as a complainer.

While it’s warm outside, it’s cold in the buildings on campus where you’re likely spending the majority of your days. Wearing more substantial clothing is the easiest and best way to stay warmer during class.

The biggest reason to dress appropriately for class is to avoid distraction. Let’s be honest here. Guys, I know you love summer weather for the short skirts, spaghetti straps and low-cut blouses. But when you’re in class, the goal is to learn, not to get the number of that hot chick sitting across the room.

And girls, respect your peers and help to keep their wandering eyes at bay. You don’t need to be showing off for that cute guy sitting behind you during class any more than he needs to be watching you. This is not to say you can’t make friends in your classes; just be aware that you might be causing someone else to be distracted from work.

Guys and girls, be aware that the classroom is a place of learning. As soon as you step over the threshold of a classroom door, you are free to do as you please, but you’re in college to get an education first and foremost. Don’t take that for granted.

Now, I do realize that lately it’s been more than 80 degrees outside, and sometimes it’s just unbearable to wear anything more than the minimum. But there are ways around that too. Try bringing a sweater to class to keep warm and hide some skin. Then you can easily take it off once you’re outside. Also, sundresses are a great summer alternative to skimpy shorts. They’re light and breezy in the warm weather, but they also look nice for class. There are easy ways around dressing inappropriately for class.

I’m not saying you shouldn’t wear shorts, but maybe spandex shorts that only Olympic runners wear aren’t the best idea. I’m not saying you shouldn’t wear a sleeveless shirt, but if, when you lean across your desk, you put on a show, maybe it’s not the best idea. For the sake of your future, your education and a steady body temperature: Cover up.

Contact Elizabeth at eaw62@pitt.edu.