The Lecture after the Night Before
For the girls: Gráinne Morrison tries to solve the student style dilemma faced all too often…
We’ve all been there: you head out for a few quiet cocktails at Font and somehow end up returning home at 6am somewhat worse-for-wear. This is fine until your alarm buzzes and you remember that all important 9am seminar you absolutely cannot miss. Getting ready in a rush is always a challenge, but when you’re lingering in that strange place between still being drunk and very hungover, whilst also in last night’s clothes, style often takes a backseat.
I have a friend who put foundation on her toothbrush in a rush to get ready for a lecture- not a great look (or taste). With the right attitude, however, one can give the appearance of a well-rested, healthy student whilst actually dying on the inside. I’m not saying we can all look like Olivia Palermo after two hours of sleep and 20 units of alcohol, but a hangover is not an excuse to look like a homeless Ian Beale. If you haven’t yet realised-the dishevelled look is popular in Manchester; girls spend an hour trying to perfect the ‘I just rolled out of bed’ look – you don’t even have to try! There is always time to wash your face, brush your teeth (with toothpaste!) and knot your hair.
Keep makeup minimal: concealer for the tired eyes, blusher to brighten the vodka-ruined complexion and mascara if you’re putting in an effort. Now for the clothes: there are a few essential items to have for those mornings when your brain is just not functioning. Black wet look leggings with an oversized white shirt is always my go-to outfit but for those of you who are braver than myself, add a statement necklace to give it more of an edge. If you’re feeling especially courageous you could take heed from Stella McCartney and brighten up your complexion with a bold and bright orange or green jumper. The most pertinent rule to remember is to avoid busy prints; you’ll find it hard enough to focus on the words you’re writing down, never mind realising halfway through your class that you’ve worn a floral top with neon tie-dye leggings.
Photo: ASOS.comIf you can master this, you can definitely get a first in your degree. And try not to judge those fellow course mates wearing badly chosen ensembles after an ill-fated night out, not everyone reads The Mancunion…
More Coverage
Recycled fashion, Hannah Spencer, and The Trafford Centre: Manchester Fashion Week 2026
A look at the young creatives and sustainable ideas putting Northern fashion on the map
SS27 Copenhagen Fashion Week: Sheer beauty
As the Spring/Summer 2027 season kicks off in New York next week, the lesser known Copenhagen Fashion Week has a voice that deserves to be heard, although troubles with sustainability still prevail
Has Vinted lost its vintage?
The second-hand marketplace is now lots of people’s first choice for clothing, from your housemates to your mum. But over time, the platform has turned into a sea of re-sold fast fashion. Heidi Taylor asks a 19-year-old and a 71-year-old if that’s such a bad thing
Call it what it is: Jhumkas or vintage accessories?
The fashion industry’s ongoing erasure of Indian craftsmanship, as seen through the popularisation of the South Asian Jewellery staple: Jhumkas







