How to Dress to Impress at Supermodel University (SMU)

When first arriving on campus, choosing an outfit for your first day of school can be daunting, especially if coming from a high school that has uniforms. At SMU, style is more than clothing; it’s part of the campus culture. New students quickly notice that many girls look polished, intentional, and put together, which can make figuring out what to wear feel intimidating at first. But here’s the real secret: there is a formula to it, and once you understand it, dressing for class becomes simple, enjoyable, and confidence-boosting.

This guide breaks down exactly how to dress on campus, from everyday lecture outfits to game-day aesthetics. Consider it your behind-the-scenes roadmap to looking confident, comfortable, and undeniably Mustang. 

The SMU Style Personality 

If you had to describe SMU style in three words, it would be: polished, effortless, and trend-aware. Some girls may have bold statement pieces, but the key to the SMU style is classic staples such as tailored denim, button-downs, and the perfect white tees. While staples may seem basic, SMU girls keep staples elevated by mixing in subtle Dallas glamour such as gold jewelry, curated bags, and clean blowouts. Students don’t necessarily dress fancy, but they do dress with intention.

To get visually inspired and gain a better understanding of the SMU style, browse the recent SMU Look Magazine student life column, which covers everything from Dallas fashion to SMU style guides. They offer the most accurate, student-driven snapshot of what people actually wear on a day-to-day basis, but in case you need some more help to curate your perfect SMU wardrobe, here is your three-step guide to SMU style. 

Step One: Build a Reliable Class Outfit Formula

Although it may not seem like it, most students rely on a go-to formula they rotate throughout the week. It allows for quick and easy outfits that look put-together and chic. Here are two of the most common outfit formulas:

Formula 1: Polished Casual

Perfect for lectures, meetings, or days when you want to look put-together without overthinking your outfit, the Polished Casual formula is a staple across campus. Most students start with denim bottoms, such as a straight-leg, tailored, or relaxed fit, and pair them with a basic tee or fitted tank in a neutral tone. Light outerwear, such as a thin cardigan, a linen button-down, or a cropped jacket, adds an effortless layer of polish. Everyday jewelry like small hoops, layered necklaces, or simple rings elevates the look without feeling overdone. A structured or higher-end bag brings sophistication, while a classic belt ties the outfit together. Finally, many students finish the look with coordinated sneakers, often matching their shoes to their bag for a cohesive, stylish finish.

Formula Two: Comfy Chic

The Comfy Chic formula is ideal for busy days, long walks across campus, or moments when you’re heading straight from class to the gym. This style usually centers around matching sets—either a cozy sweat set on colder days or a workout set with leggings and a tank or biker shorts and a tee. A stack of gold jewelry instantly elevates the casual pieces, transforming them from simple athleisure into something more intentional. Pairing the outfit with a high-end or structured bag keeps the look polished rather than lazy, striking the perfect balance between comfort and style.

Both formul

as embody the classic SMU blend of ease and elegance, making them essential go-to options in any weekly outfit rotation.

Step Two: Understand Dallas Weather

Dallas weather is unpredictable, so your outfit needs to adapt. Check the weather channel daily before getting dressed. You never know when a consistent week of 70° weather will all of a sudden dip into 40° weather, so you and your closet need to be prepared. The formulas will stay relatively the same, but the layering is different. While Formula One may not always need a jacket, once it gets cold, leather, fur, and sweaters are all the craze. For example:

• Early fall: Formula 1 rarely needs a jacket—light cardigans or breezy layers are plenty.

• Mid-winter: Suddenly, leather jackets, sherpa-lined coats, and chunky sweaters become campus staples.

• Warm spells: Even in January or February, there are surprise warm days where Formula 2 (a workout set + zip-up) becomes the go-to again.

Dallas weather may be chaotic, but with flexible layers and a few smart outerwear options, your outfit formulas will always work—no matter what Texas decides to do that day.

Step Three: Wear What Makes You Confident

Here’s the real secret: no one is taking notes on what you’re wearing. Yes, the campus has a stylish reputation. But you’ll see everything from athleisure to sundresses to entirely monochrome outfits in a single day.

The goal isn’t to fit in; it's to develop your own personal campus style that makes it easy and effortless to get ready in the morning. Whether that means sleek and minimal, colorful and bold, or laid-back and athletic, there’s room for every aesthetic. 

SMU Style Isn’t About Perfection, It’s Intention

Overall, the SMU style is about putting your best foot forward, not perfection. Dressing well becomes part of the rhythm of campus life; it boosts your confidence, helps you express yourself, and makes walking across Dallas Hall Lawn feel like your own personal runway.

With the right formulas, weather awareness, and insider tips, you’ll feel comfortable and stylish from your first class to your last final. And who knows, you might even inspire someone else’s SMU outfit of the day.