Hello ladies, summer break is about to end, and classes are going to start soon. Freshies are hyped about the new journey they are ready to embark on. Her is here to help you take off on this journey with style. According to a famous quote, “your first impression is your last impression,” so it’s super important to dress to impress. Some of you might be introverted and want to keep a low profile. We have tips for you all, whether you are a social butterfly or a hermit.

Key Outfits for a Minimal University Look
Minimal dressing for university is inexpensive yet combines some traditional elements with modern, easy-to-carry aesthetic looks. Here are some ideas to help you create a minimalist look that is both stylish and practical for university.
Solid-colour Shalwar Kameez or Kurta Sets:
Consider investing in some colour cord sets in solid, neutral, or subtle prints. Also, opt for plain or minimally patterned kurtas in soft pastel colours like white, lavender, grey, or baby pink. Pick kurtas with clean lines and cuts that suit your body shape. Add minimal embellishments; it’s best to steer clear of heavy embroidery or flashy designs.
Palazzos and Trousers:
It is a good idea to mix and match your selected kurtas with palazzo pants, straight-cut trousers, or leggings in either complementary colours or basic colours like black, white, or beige.
Dupattas or scarves:
For women who wear hijab, it’s best to use lightweight, solid-coloured dupattas or ones with minimal small prints. A simple stole or scarf can uplift your outfit.
Footwear:
Shoes need to be practical for walking around campus. Ladies select super comfortable and versatile shoes like simple flats, kolhapuris, sneakers, pumps, or sandals. Opt for neutral colours that complement a variety of outfits.
Accessories:
A minimalistic university look includes a simple pair of stud earrings, a thin bracelet, or a delicate necklace. Pair your dress with a basic tote bag or backpack.
Outerwear:
Girls, one’s outwear defines one’s individual personality. This statement item can be a smart coat or jacket, such as a trench coat, cardigan, denim jacket, or woollen coat, to enhance your outfits.
University-Appropriate Minimal Makeup Routine
Creating a university-appropriate makeup routine involves keeping things simple, fast, and natural. Her helps you achieve a simple yet refreshing look for everyday campus life.
Prep Your Skin
Cleanse and Moisturise:
Use a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities and clean your face thoroughly. Follow it with a moisturiser suited to your skin type. This creates a smooth base for makeup application.
Sunscreen:
The most important step, which you must never skip, is to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Base Makeup
Primer:
Prime your face with a light-weight primer to make makeup last longer, especially during long university days.
BB/CC Cream or Tinted Moisturiser:
This provides a natural finish and is quick to apply. You can apply BB/CC cream or tinted moisturiser for light coverage that evens out your skin tone without making it heavy or cakey.
Concealer:
Apply a small amount of concealer to any blemishes, dark circles, or areas of redness or pigmentation.
Eyes
Eyebrows:
Use an eyebrow pencil or gel to lightly fill in and shape your brows. Keep it natural by following your brow’s natural shape and using light, gentle strokes.
Eyeshadow:
My advice is to use eyeshadow only for presentations or social events. It adds a bit of definition to your eyes. Select a neutral eyeshadow shade close to your skin tone. For a subtle effect, apply a light shade to all of your lids. Never use bold shades!
Eyeliner:
If your eyes are large, it’s best to use a Kohl/Kajal pencil; tighten it for more defined eyes, and use a white pencil on the waterline if your eyes are small. Avoid using fancy or bold-coloured liners. Only use a wing liner for presentations or social events.
Mascara:
To open up your eyes, apply one or two coats of mascara to your upper lashes. Choose a lengthening or volumizing mascara that doesn’t clump.
Cheeks
Blush:
Apply a soft blush that complements your skin tone to the apples of your cheeks. For a dewy finish, you can use cream blush, while powder blushes offer a matte look.
Lips
Lip balm or tinted lip balm:
A nourishing lip balm will keep your lips hydrated. If you are someone who enjoys a hint of colour, use either a lip tint or a matte lipstick in a natural shade. It’s better to avoid bright, dramatic shades like red or maroon.
Finishing Touches
Setting Powder or Spray
If you have oily skin or want to ensure your makeup lasts all day, lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your T-zone. Use a setting spray on dry skin; your makeup will stay in place throughout the day, especially during long days on campus. It gives a natural, dewy finish.
Tips for A University-Appropriate Look
•    To achieve a university-appropriate makeup look, focus on enhancing your natural beauty with a minimalist approach, because less is more.
•    Choose simple and quick-to-apply products to ensure the routine is manageable even on busy mornings.
•    Ensure your makeup feels breathable on your skin and doesn’t require constant touch-ups throughout the day.
•    Adapt the routine based on your skin type, personal preferences, and daily schedule. For example, use more hydrating products if you have dry skin, and add definition for important presentations.
Matching Makeup Intensity with the Occasion
Classes
For a presentable look for everyday classes, keep makeup light and natural. We recommend applying BB cream, concealer, mascara, soft blush, and lip balm or tint. Avoid heavy foundation, bold eyeshadow, or dramatic lipsticks.
Presentations
Look polished yet natural. Less is more; use a natural shade of foundation or BB cream for an even skin tone. Add concealer to mask any spots or dark circles and use mascara with neutral eyeshadow. A subtle blush and matte lipstick in nude shades can enhance your look without being overpowering.
Social Events or Evening Occasions
For social events, increase makeup intensity. Experiment with makeup; define your eyes with eyeliner and deep eyeshadow shades. Add a touch of highlighter for a glow, and choose a lipstick that compliments your outfit, whether it’s bold red, glossy pink, or a classic nude.
Tips for a Polished Appearance
A vibrant personality involves more than just coordinating your outfit and makeup. Paying attention to grooming and hygiene and preparing for quick touch-ups throughout the day are some tips for maintaining a neat hairstyle. Here are some key tips to help you look your best:
•    Maintain a skincare routine to keep your skin glowing. Simply cleanse, moisturise, and use sunscreen daily. Exfoliate and apply treatments as needed for your skin type.
•    Brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Make sure that you carry some breath mints or a travel-size mouth spray for fresh breath throughout the day.
•    Get regular haircuts to keep your hair fresh and healthy. This helps prevent split ends and makes your hair look splendid.
•    Shower daily and use deodorant to stay fresh. Consider carrying with you a light, pleasant fragrance or body mist.
•    Keep facial hair neat, depending on your preference. Regularly groom eyebrows, upper lips, and chin to maintain a tidy appearance.
•    Ladies, keep those nails clean and trimmed. Apply light shades of nail polish and make sure it doesn’t chip.
•    Try to make simple hairstyles that are straightforward to maintain and manageable. For shoulder-length hair, opt for a high ponytail, a tidy bun, or leave your hair loose.
•    Invest in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that suit your hair type. Use gentle products that add shine, control frizz, and hold your hair in place.
•    Do not over-accessorise. Keep it simple; use plain hair ties, clips, or headbands and jewellery that complements your overall look without overpowering it.
 
Whether you’re an outgoing person or a reserved introvert, embracing a minimalistic approach to your university attire and makeup can help you feel confident and look your best. Adapt your look to fit your unique style and skin type. A minimalistic approach to university attire and makeup can enhance your natural beauty and style without much effort. This will make you confident and ready to tackle your university journey with ease and grace.

A professional cosmetologist and beautician, the writer is a makeup artist by passion.
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