How to Dress For Rush; Advice From Former Rushees

By Taylor Brim on August 11, 2012

Ladies, it’s that time of year. Every shopping trip you have ever made, every fashion statement, it all has been leading up to this moment- Sorority Rush. It is the one time in your life when your outfit speaks volumes and first impressions mean everything.

Depending on the size of your university, you could be given only ten minutes to make a lasting impression on potential sisters. That being said, first impressions are crucial during sorority rush week. Appearance needs to reflect your amazing personality since you may not even get a chance to meet everyone! While dress guidelines for rush vary from university to university, there are a few golden rules that reign supreme no matter what part of the country you hail from.

As I interviewed former rushees for advice, one theme prevailed in almost every girl’s answer: Stay Classy! Following are tips from girls who have been there and done that, and looked darn good while doing it.

Accessories, Accessories, Accessories!:

“The key is to wear accessories and outfits no one else will be wearing. Like a really cute flower, headband, or even jewelry that makes you stand out from the other girls.”
-Kelsey, University of Missouri

“The first few days you wear a t-shirt that they provide for you and shorts. The best thing to do on this day is to wear accessories! Throw a flower in your hair, cute earrings, a braclet etc.”
-Abbey, Missouri State University

“We love pearls and Lilly Pulitzer and bows.”
-Lauryn, University of Arkansas

“Make sure you wear something that makes you stand out. Like a headband, bracelet, necklace, etc. Dress it up and make it your own because it’s easy to get lost in the crowd on those days.”
-Megan, Missouri State University

“Some universities make you wear the same tshirt for 3 or so days. If this happens to you ACCESSORIZE! Have fun with jewelry and your hair style. Something as little as a bow in your hair can be immensely helpful to the ladies in house to remember you better.”
-Madison, University of Missouri

What to NOT Wear:

“No soffes. They HATE soffes…Never look like you’re going clubbing and heels aren’t necessary.”
-Lauryn, University of Arkansas

“For the days you have to dress up keep in mind classy is essential! Nothing too tight or too short. It’s a bunch of girls, we don’t want to see that.”
-Megan, Missouri State University

“Don’t start a new style during rush week. We get it; you’re just going to college and ready to start dressing with a ‘trendy new style.’ Please wait. You haven’t quite figured out exactly how to wear it and chances are, you won’t be 100% comfortable in your new look. Rush is all about confidence.”
-Cailynn, William Jewell College

“No booty shorts. The finger tip rule is defiantly encouraged. Minimum cleavage and be careful for bra straps.”
-Madison, University of Missouri

“Don’t dress too revealing because that doesn’t look good on your part.”
-Abbey, Missouri State University

Example Outfits:

“Casual shorts or skirts are best. Nothing super fancy or really short…Pref night is NOT prom. Sundresses are probably the best route to go.”
-Lauryn, University of Arkansas

“Three words we use in our sorority when preparing for rush are classy, simple, and stylish. These three words should guide you to the perfect outfit for sorority rush. If something you are thinking about wearing doesn’t fit these three, don’t wear it.”
-Cailynn, William Jewell University

Words of  Wisdom:

“Don’t try to hard. That’s not to say you should walk in with some Nike shorts and t-shirt you stole after you shacked at your boyfriends house, but don’t come in wearing your High school Prom dress. No sorority girl wants to be totally outdone by one of the potential new members. Find a happy medium like something you might wear to a wedding or a dinner date and add a nice accessory.”
-Cailynn, William Jewell College

“Be yourself! If you have peircings, wear them! If you have a tattoo, show it off. Chapters love to see girl who are comfortable with who they are and can be a breath of fresh air.”
-Madison, University of Missouri

“If y’all choose your own outfits, it’s best to not look sloppy, but also not look like you prepped for hours. Some effort should always be put in… You want to be memorable and look your best, but also look like yourself because these girls are your future sisters.”
-Lauryn, University of Arkansas

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