How to Standout during Rush Week

First impressions happen fast during rush week and your outfit is doing a lot of the talking before you even say hello.

Which is why it's important to dress the part. As a PNM (Potential New Member), you want to be remembered after you leave the room, so plan your sorority rush outfits accordingly.

So, What actually Is Rushing?

Rush week is a week long whirlwind of sorority houses, new faces, and first impressions. Basically, you're picking your friends for the next four years—no pressure. The good news? It's a lot of fun, especially if you love being the center of attention.

Not sure what to wear? We've got you covered from Open House to Bid Day.

NAOMIE MINI SKIRT WHITE Mini Skirt

OPEN HOUSE

Open House is typically the most casual round of recruitment, but casual doesn’t mean forgettable. You may be given a T-shirt to wear, so make it your own by styling it with pieces that show off your personal style.

Think embellished skirts, statement capris, tailored shorts, or a matching set that makes the look feel effortlessly put together.

The goal? Comfortable enough for hours of conversations, but memorable enough to make them want to know more.

NADIENE MINI DRESS WHITE Mini Dress

PHILANTHROPY DAY

Philanthropy Day is when each chapter introduces PNMs to the causes and charitable work it supports. It’s also another opportunity to ask questions and get a better sense of what life in each sorority is like.

Dresses with sweet detailing and asymmetrical hemlines, or a flirty skirt paired with an elevated top are perfect. Think brunch with higher stakes.

A white sorority dress is timeless, while soft pastels are always a safe bet. Feeling bolder? Make an impression in red.

LORETO MINI DRESS PINK Mini Dress

SISTERHOOD DAY

Things are getting serious.

During Sisterhood day, you’ll chat for longer periods of time with members of each sorority. 

This is one of the more formal days of rush, so opt for a statement cocktail dress or dressy set. Mini and midi dresses are both safe choices – there’s no need to go fully formal quite yet.

Stick to solid colors or muted prints, elevated details, and flattering silhouettes. Neutrals and pastels are classic choices, while rich chocolate and burgundy tones feel polished. Pair with wedges, kitten heels, or statement sandals.

PREFerence day

Time to bring the drama – this is your last chance to make an impression.

This is the most formal night of rush so go all out. Opt for a dramatic maxi dress or formal mini dress with elevated details and a statement silhouette. Black, white, and other neutral tones are elegant choices for preference round dresses. At some schools, potential new members typically wear shorter cocktail dresses, while active or older members may opt for longer, more formal silhouettes.

Hot tip? Be sure to finish the look with heels you can comfortably stand in.

EMIL PANT BLACK POLKA DOT Pants

Bid Day Outfits

The last day of rush – the day you find out which sorority you’ll be joining!

The dress code returns to casual for bid day outfits – just be sure to dress for photos. Keep it cute, comfortable, and easy to move in with a white dress, matching set, capris, or lace shorts paired with cowboy boots or sneakers.

Our RUSH WEEK TIPS

It’s normal to be nervous. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way.

  1. Stay hydrated, wear shoes you've already broken in, and choose outfits you can actually move in.
  2. Come prepared with a few questions and answers to common prompts like, "Tell me about yourself."
  3. Find a genuine point of connection — it's the easiest way to leave a lasting impression.
  4. Be yourself, just a slightly more well-behaved version.
  5. Drinking is typically not allowed during rush week, so save it for another time.
  6. Skip polarizing topics like politics, hookups, and sorority rankings. Save your questionable stories for after Bid Day.
  7. Give your socials a quick refresh. Anything that screams "I partied my way through high school" should probably disappear for now. Don't worry, college will give you plenty of chances to rebuild the evidence.

The best rush week outfit is confidence. The second best is Outcast.

Good luck—you've got this x

FAQs

What is rushing in college?

Rushing is the process of meeting sororities, visiting houses, and narrowing down your top choices. Expect several rounds of conversations, increasingly elevated rush week outfits, and more names than you can remember.

What do you wear during Rush Week?

What to wear for Rush Week depends on the round. Recruitment outfits usually start casual for Open House, become more dressy for Philanthropy and Sisterhood, and finish with formal preference round dresses.

Can you wear black during rush?

Yes, black is generally a safe choice, especially during the more formal rounds. Just make sure your sorority rush outfit still feels memorable through its silhouette, detailing, or accessories.

Do I need a white dress?

Not always, but having a white sorority dress on hand is a smart move. Some schools or chapters encourage white rush dresses for certain rounds or Bid Day, so check your recruitment guidelines before panic ordering one. Outcast has fast shipping, just in case.

What should I wear to Preference Round?

Preference Round is typically the most formal part of rush. Opt for an elegant cocktail dress, formal mini, or dramatic maxi with elevated details and a statement silhouette. Black, white, and neutral preference round dresses are timeless.

What do girls wear on Bid Day?

Bid Day outfits are casual, comfortable, and photo-ready. Think white dresses, matching sets, capris, cute shorts, cowboy boots, or sneakers.

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