Once upon a time, someone told me that when you enter college or university there's a way to distinguish between first years and everyone else; the trick is to check out what they're wearing. They say first years always try to dress up and look their best, while everyone else dresses for comfort and practicality.

Being a first year, I have certainly noticed the majority of students my age do dress for looks and to attract their desired mate. However, here's the thing: first years are far too worried about partying and looking good. Eventually, they become overwhelmed with school work and when they do, guess what? They stop looking as good and turn to comfortable sweatpants. And so, I have compiled a simple set of rules to follow for when you eventually turn to the elasticized leisurewear.

1. Never wear all one bright colour — There will always be those girls who buy sweatsuits from Victoria's Secret or Juicy Couture in hot pink or lime green and think they're cute. Here's the thing: wearing both pieces of that sweat suit at the same time isn't so cute. It looks slightly juvenile, and it also gives off the feeling that you're asking for attention. So if you are going to wear both pieces of a sweat suit make sure they aren't too bright. Aim for a colour such as black or charcoal grey - even dark teal is a great alternative. You'll be surprised as to how much better these colours look. The only attention they'll be drawing is the right kind.

2. Bigger isn't always better and neither is tighter. When wearing sweatpants and sweatshirts, you have to make sure they aren't too baggy - it looks frumpy if they are. However, the counterpoint is not too wear anything that's too tight. You need to find a balance within comfortable and fashionable. Wearing one fitted piece and one looser piece is always a good rule to follow. This way you aren't drowning in fabric and you're able to maintain some comfort. This rule has a lot of leeway, however, it's a matter of using your best judgment when getting dressed and taking that final look in the mirror.

3. Make it your own — Make sure when you get dressed you give your look a splash of personality. Fashion would be nothing without a personal touch, and believe it or not, sweatpants are not excluded from this rule. If you're wearing harem-style sweats and a loose tank top, throw on some cute bracelets, rings or a necklace. It's about taking something simple and comfortable and then dressing it up to suit what you're doing and who you are. So next time you're considering changing into something less casual to go out, try dressing up your outfit instead of changing it.

4. Middriffs are meant for the beach — I'm not too sure when it became popular to show off your stomach in sweats, but it's not something that should be done. If you're reaching for something and your shirt goes up, make sure to pull it down after. No one needs to see which belly-button ring you've got in today. This rule is also closely related to the "wear a shirt under the zip-up rule." The number of times girls wear no shirt under their zip-up hoodies has increased. It looks a little promiscuous, an image no girl should ever try to convey. Therefore, when you get dressed in the morning make sure you really are getting dressed.

5. Although they're on your feet, shoes top off the look — Shoes are always a tough thing to pair with sweatpants therefore this rule is flexible. Remember, shoes really do add the finishing touch to any outfit. So when you're slipping on your stilettos, tying on your runners or shimmying up your Uggs, remember people really will pay attention to how your shoes complete the look. Make sure your shoes go with the look; they should compliment - not clash or overwhelm. Remember, just 'cause the shoe fits doesn't mean it's a nice one.