Often times it can feel like everyone in school tries to “fit in” and keep up with all of the trends. But why? “You will never influence the world by being just like it.” This quote seems to always be on my mind when putting together an outfit. Dressing up for BBYO can be pretty stressful because you want compliments from the people you don’t see daily. Depending on the region, the attire varies. One of my friends from SJR said, “we have themes sometimes, but not for every dance.” I think themes are a fun way to express individuality in a creative way. Themes can range from western, to decades, and even all the way to Coachella. In my region we always have themed events but that’s not the case in every region. I think we ought to start implementing more events like these across regions to help encourage BBYO members to take fashion risks and simply have fun!

I personally follow event or dance themes by buying props from Amazon and stores like Urban Outfitters.  There are so many options and different routes to take. Find an accessory to make your outfit YOUR outfit. I always try and add some interesting makeup because I never wear makeup to school so it allows me to be my “BBYO self”. For the Coachella theme it was really fun to include makeup and put together the perfect music festival outfit!

I guarantee you will feel confident if you just decide to be yourself and use fashion as a tool to do so. It is true “you will never influence the world by being just like it”, so go all out and have fun with your BBYO fashion choices, your “BBYO self” will shine through. The next time you’re last minute online shopping to find an instagram-worthy outfit for BBYO, take that risk because this community is the perfect place to do so.