What to wear to… Itchy Feet

In preparation for this ‘What to Wear’ article, I googled Itchy Feet. It turns out ‘feet’ is only number three in the most popular searches for possible itchy parts of […]


In preparation for this ‘What to Wear’ article, I googled Itchy Feet. It turns out ‘feet’ is only number three in the most popular searches for possible itchy parts of the body, with ‘skin’ number one and ‘bum’ a close second. Or maybe that’s just my Google history. Either way, this needs to be rectified because Itchy Feet is one of the best nights you’ll have in this little ol’ town. It’s the one night where ‘the Bop’ does what it says on the tin – imagine Venue One where people are actually dancing, not just prowling the darkened corners for fresh(er) prey.  The reason Itchy Feet is so popular is not just the toe-tapping tunes that make you feel like a Grease extra, but also because of the shot of fun injected to your usual Thursday-night-Union-ensemble. If there is such a thing.

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If the motto for the music is something new from something old then let that be your guide to dressing. If there’s one thing St Andrews can be relied upon for, it’s the ability to unleash a ton of eccentricity on any event that has even the slightest hint of fancy dress. For some really one-off, individual items, you could head to a little shop called H and M, but if you’re feeling particularly brave, venture into the Curiosity shop, Rummage or one of our hundreds of charity shops. While you’re at it, check out free podcasts of their chunes and pictures of past events to get you shaking, rattling and rolling.

For the dapper gents, it’s all about brogues, braces, bowties and Buddy Holly – you can even get away with wearing those ridiculous non-prescription hipster glasses (although that is the ONLY time). Get your hands on a bold tweed jacket, which shouldn’t be hard in St Andrews, and pair it with skinny jeans if you want to be a real (Jarvis) Cocker. If the look you’re going for is a little more nonchalant, double-up on the denim and turn those trousers up high, channelling Elvis and Jailhouse Rock.

                                                 

If you’re a lady, which most of you are, pretty much anything goes. Polka dots, playsuits, prints, pin-up, in fact it’s more about what not to wear. The Fresher’s uniform of short skirts and high heels is out – unless you want Ouchy Feet and weeks of cringing at pictures of you falling over. Similarly, avoid jewellery that’s going to see you and your dancing partner in Ninewells for disentangling. Invest in a pair of Brothel Creepers, which are amazing, not only for being super comfy but also for being the best-named shoe ever. Pair them with a vintage print dress and opaque tights, or your skinniest black jeans and a denim shirt, and you’re good to go.

Just remember: stay retro and have fun. And if anyone knows how to clear Google history, let me know.

Images ©Itchy Feet, Lauren Hepburn and Wikipedia