How to Dress Like a Nerd

Co-authored by Natalie Tincher

Last Updated: May 23, 2022 Approved

Whether you are getting ready for a themed party or simply want to change up your style, this article will help you channel your inner nerd!

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1
Get some glasses. Horn-rimmed glasses have become such a nerdy staple that people often refer to them as "nerd glasses." Find a pair in black or dark brown, and for an added touch, wrap some tape around the nose bridge to achieve the illusion that they are broken.
- If you can't find a pair with thick rims, then any pair of reading glasses will do. Be sure that they are the right prescription, or are prescription-free if you don't wear glasses.
2
Wear nerdy prints. Checkers, plaid, and argyle are the triple threat when it comes to "geeky" or "school-nerd" style. Try to find a sweater, vest, skirt, or dress in one of these prints.
- You can also try striped and polka dotted patterns. Try mix-and-matching a few different prints. The more they clash with one another, the better!
- Wear floral maxi dresses and short flowy shift dresses.^{[1]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  
  Expert Interview. 4 June 2020.}
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3
Wear a collared shirt. The shirt should be buttoned up, and preferably tucked into a pair of pants or a skirt. Wear a collared shirt underneath a vest or sweater if you have one, and have the neck collar and sleeves showing.
- Try a plain white dress shirt, a plaid or checkered button-up, or a collared t-shirt in any color.
4
Get a pair of trousers. Ideally, your pants should be high-rise and cut just above the ankle (like a capri) so that your socks are visible underneath them. Stick with simple colors like black, grey, and brown.
- You can wear high-waisted flare jeans and loose, blousy tops.^{[2]
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  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  
  Expert Interview. 4 June 2020.}
Try a pair of dress shoes or loafers in black or brown. You can also dress down your outfit with a pair of sneakers like Chuck Taylors or Vans. Try to find a pair in a bright color like red, blue, green or purple.
6
Accessorize. Once you have nailed the basic look, use some accessories to play up your outfit.
- Carry books, pencils, pens, and/or a backpack with you. If your shirt has a breast pocket, then stick some pens inside of it.
- Wear suspenders. Try to find a standout color or pattern like red, purple, neon green, checkers or rainbow.
- Wear either a standard tie or a bow tie with your collared shirt. Again, you can keep the color scheme simple for a more reserved look, or choose funky patterns and textures if you want to channel the 90s nerd style.
- Choose the right socks. If you are wearing a dress, try white knee-high or thigh-high socks; for pants and shorts, try a pair of dress socks in white or argyle. Whatever type of sock you choose, make sure to pull them up so that they are visible and make sure to put the socks over your pants in order to show off your wonderful nerdy socks!
- Wear hats, fashion scarves, or brown suede boots.^{[3]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  
  Expert Interview. 4 June 2020.}

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Question

How do you get emo look?

Natalie Tincher
Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
Natalie Tincher is the Owner and Principal Style Strategist of BU Style. With more than 10 years of experience, Natalie specializes in personal styling to reflect clients’ individuality, confidence, and comfort. In 2019, she was named the Global Head of Styling for Bloomberg Television. Natalie is certified in Image Consulting through the Fashion Institute of Technology. She regularly shares her expertise with corporate groups at major financial institutions, media companies, and news outlets including: Time Out New York, Refinery 29, and NBC News.

Natalie Tincher

Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist

Expert Answer

Emo embodies emotions. Think about what you want to express through your wardrobe. Incorporate elements that reflect your personality and preferences.

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How can you dress like a hippie?

Natalie Tincher
Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
Natalie Tincher is the Owner and Principal Style Strategist of BU Style. With more than 10 years of experience, Natalie specializes in personal styling to reflect clients’ individuality, confidence, and comfort. In 2019, she was named the Global Head of Styling for Bloomberg Television. Natalie is certified in Image Consulting through the Fashion Institute of Technology. She regularly shares her expertise with corporate groups at major financial institutions, media companies, and news outlets including: Time Out New York, Refinery 29, and NBC News.

Natalie Tincher

Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist

Expert Answer

Wear short, flowy shift dresses or tiered, floral maxi dresses to dress like a hippie. You can also wear fashionable scarves and hats.

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What shoes are best if I don't have loafers?

Luna Rose

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Nerds often dress in a preppy, comfortable style. Nice-looking shoes can help your style appear more put-together. Or you can go for comfortable sneakers or sandals. Stay away from shoes that are uncomfortable, tight, or hard to walk in. Nerds value the mind more than looks, so what you wear isn't too important. As long as your shoes aren't uncomfortable (and thus a distraction), they're good.

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Tips

You don't always have to be ugly to be a "nerd"

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Try hitting a thrift store to find quirky suspenders, bow ties, and sweaters.

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Nerdy style is very similar to "hipster" style, especially for men. Try checking out stores like Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, or American Apparel for a cheap pair of horn-rimmed non-prescription glasses and for an endless supply of plaid items.

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The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

If you're a girl, try to make your hair really frizzy. This will make you look like you don't care about your hair
Wear tights or jumper skirts because they give you a more comfortable, yet smart impression.
Nerds like classic and old clothes.

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