Sorority recruitment is exciting, but finding outfits for each round can be overwhelming at first. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are 10 tips on how to curate the perfect lookbook for recruitment:
Shop Your Closet
As much as many of us love an excuse to shop (I know I do!), it’s likely you already have outfits ready to go in your closet that fit the recruitment themes. Mix and match items you own to create fresh looks without spending more money, unless necessary.
Go Thrifting
Thrifting is an excellent way to get new outfits while being sustainable. By repurposing old clothes and loving some old pieces for a new occasion, you can be stylish, budget-friendly and green (plus your outfits will be unique).
Borrow from Friends
We all have that friend we love to steal clothes from, and what better time than sorority recruitment? Borrowing from friends is the perfect way to wear something new and expand your closet without buying anything new. You could even do a clothing swap and permanently refresh your closet!
Show your Personal Style
Sorority recruitment is all about you and showcasing who you are, and what better way than through your sense of style? Choose pieces that feel like you, rather than choosing something because it may be trendy or cute, because that is how you show yourself while staying on theme. Confidence shines brighter than any other outfit!
Try Everything out in Advance
Don’t wait until the last minute to buy and try on clothes. Finding your wardrobe in advance allows you to try on the clothes and make sure they fit, pair them with the perfect accessories, makeup looks, hair and anything else to complete the fit.
Do the Sit, Stand and Movement Test
Make sure you can comfortably sit, stand and walk in the pieces you wear. Recruitment involves both periods of being on your feet and sitting down, so you want to ensure you are comfortable and not constantly adjusting your outfit.
Use Panhellenic as a Resource
Many Panhellenic councils share lookbooks or inspiration pages for potential new members to look at for inspiration for recruitment outfits. Check the website or socials for advice and tips for recruitment outfits for each round to ensure you can choose the most appropriate clothing. As a general rule of thumb, as the rounds progress, the outfits get more formal.
Some Panhellenics also host a recruitment closet where PNMs can borrow, swap, or buy clothes for recruitment at no or low cost.
Pick the Right Footwear
In addition to clothes, having the appropriate footwear is also key, as you will walk and stand often during recruitment. While some shoes may be cute, the blisters they create after…well, not as cute. Choose cute but comfy footwear when planning your outfit. And always make sure to break in any new shoes!
Be Mindful of Dress Codes
Some recruitment events may have specific dress codes (e.g., no ripped jeans, no super short skirts). Ensure that you follow the guidelines provided by your College Panhellenic to avoid any last-minute outfit issues and to make the best impression on the chapters you talk to. If you aren’t sure about a specific piece, you can ask your recruitment counselors or Panhellenic leadership for a second opinion.
Mind the Small Details
Iron or steam your outfits ahead of time, check for loose threads or missing buttons, give all of your outfits a pass with a lint roller to pick up stray hair or fuzzies, and make sure your shoes are clean. Having a clean and polished look helps you look put together and presents a good image during recruitment, showing that you care about the events you are attending.
By planning recruitment outfits in advance, you can avoid the last-minute stress of finding the right outfit and give yourself plenty of time to find the perfect pieces that scream you. Enjoy the process and what it will eventually lead to finding your forever home!
