Appearance Regulations for Recruitment?

[VandalSquirrel]

If women color their hair mention a root touch up. I may have a sixth sense for colored hair and roots, I can see a micrometer of growth, and a halo of a different color isn't flattering in any situation, including recruitment.

There are also these guidelines below, sometimes people may not be the best example but are a horrible warning of what not to do. I don't think all of the suggestions below are bad, but the delivery was the issue.

[kt8319]

I have already given directions about which outfits will be worn on which nights so they have plenty of time to prepare for recruitment in September. I was just wondering about everyone's policies, such as if you must have your hair down, no nail polish, no big earrings, etc. I'm not really sure how to go about setting these rules, and just wasn't sure about how most chapters have policies on those types of things. And of course I would never force anyone to go tanning or get a manicure or anything of that sort, just the basic regulations and allowances chapters provide. Also, I'm worried about how to enforce it because we have a couple of girls who sometimes ignore policies (things like dying their hair in an odd way right before recruitment would not surprise me).

[honeychile]

Originally Posted by kt8319

I have already given directions about which outfits will be worn on which nights so they have plenty of time to prepare for recruitment in September. I was just wondering about everyone's policies, such as if you must have your hair down, no nail polish, no big earrings, etc. I'm not really sure how to go about setting these rules, and just wasn't sure about how most chapters have policies on those types of things. And of course I would never force anyone to go tanning or get a manicure or anything of that sort, just the basic regulations and allowances chapters provide. Also, I'm worried about how to enforce it because we have a couple of girls who sometimes ignore policies (things like dying their hair in an odd way right before recruitment would not surprise me).

This is why you need to have alumnae help you. There will always be a rebel or two, but that doesn't mean that they should be allowed to tank your entire recruitment.

We were sent home with a list of what we would need for which party, and within the first week of classes, we had pass a "fashion show". We didn't have the luxury of a spare closet, but we did have a lot of savvy sisters who brought extra clothing of acceptable sorts. Lots of praise such as, "Oh, that First Party outfit of yours rocks! But this one...." works wonders.

And remember, it takes SEVEN compliments to overcome ONE negative remark.

[katydidKD]

Also, remind girls that it's ONE (or two or three depending on your campus, obviously) WEEK. They can hold off on the pink hair dye until after recruitment, paint their nails orange after recruitment, etc. And yes, you need alum support, it makes a world of difference

[sweetmagnolia]

Originally Posted by kt8319

I have already given directions about which outfits will be worn on which nights so they have plenty of time to prepare for recruitment in September. I was just wondering about everyone's policies, such as if you must have your hair down, no nail polish, no big earrings, etc. I'm not really sure how to go about setting these rules, and just wasn't sure about how most chapters have policies on those types of things. And of course I would never force anyone to go tanning or get a manicure or anything of that sort, just the basic regulations and allowances chapters provide. Also, I'm worried about how to enforce it because we have a couple of girls who sometimes ignore policies (things like dying their hair in an odd way right before recruitment would not surprise me).

For recruitment, with the exception of pref night, we were told: hair down in a style that works for you (if your hair is naturally curly, you can leave it curly as long as it's neat), natural makeup, and one piece of jewelry (not including small stud earrings) that matches the theme of the night. As for nails, if you're choosing polish, go with neutral shades or natural but clean.

[katydidKD]

Originally Posted by kt8319

I have already given directions about which outfits will be worn on which nights so they have plenty of time to prepare for recruitment in September. I was just wondering about everyone's policies, such as if you must have your hair down, no nail polish, no big earrings, etc. I'm not really sure how to go about setting these rules, and just wasn't sure about how most chapters have policies on those types of things. And of course I would never force anyone to go tanning or get a manicure or anything of that sort, just the basic regulations and allowances chapters provide. Also, I'm worried about how to enforce it because we have a couple of girls who sometimes ignore policies (things like dying their hair in an odd way right before recruitment would not surprise me).

Just saw this and yes, my chapter had those regulations. It seems so tedious to tell girls they can only wear stud earrings, but if looking that uniform is necessary on campus, it's necessary. We also had rules about hair (you need to put effort into it.)

It is perfectly acceptable, and like you said, you aren't asking them to tan or get mani-pedi's--- just leave their self expression when it comes to clothing etc behind for a week/s

[DubaiSis]

What do the other chapters on campus do? I wouldn't go overboard with the matchy-matchy, but a good manicure (and pedicure if your tooties are showing), with or without polish is a must, and a good life lesson. We had girls who were generally opposed to makeup, but during rush it was required (it was the 80's where normal makeup was applied with a spackle). A little discussion about how looking your best is a way of projecting the right persona and what your goals are from your recruitment should help. And definitely do throw an alumna under the bus. That's what they're there for.

If you're at a more or less laid-back campus I wouldn't beat yourself up about all this, but there are times that require a bit more than basic hygiene to fit the mood of the event. And of course basic hygiene is one of those things that shouldn't have to be said, but say it anyway. This is all just future job interview prep!

[Gusteau]

@Vandal Squirrel, I was waiting for someone to post that. I thought it might be you.
"Tacky. Cheapo. Pleather. Don't mess with me."

OP, I get a small sense that you might be having a hard time dealing with people over this issue - if not, no personal offense intended. It could be good to remember that the best way to get people to do what you want is to show them how it will benefit them. You'll have to be very diplomatic in your position, so you might want to add Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" to your summer reading list. Other than that it seems like you're one the right track!

[VandalSquirrel]

Originally Posted by Gusteau

@Vandal Squirrel, I was waiting for someone to post that. I thought it might be you.
"Tacky. Cheapo. Pleather. Don't mess with me."

OP, I get a small sense that you might be having a hard time dealing with people over this issue - if not, no personal offense intended. It could be good to remember that the best way to get people to do what you want is to show them how it will benefit them. You'll have to be very diplomatic in your position, so you might want to add Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" to your summer reading list. Other than that it seems like you're one the right track!

I'm glad I didn't disappoint

Other than the gems of outrageous requests/demands, that Cornell student did have some solid tips in her manifesto. It really wasn't what she said as much as how she said it. I have and will say similar things to young women entering the work place and/or leaving college.

Avoid muffin tops, camel toe, leggings that aren't pants worn as such, dark pants/denim are better than bleached and faded jeans. In January avoid summer colors and short sleeves, as well as sleeveless or tank tops, don't be frumpy or over exposed with something low cut. Wear flats and avoid open toe, too high, white, and strappy (hello January!). Appropriate skirt/dress hems and sleeves, shaved legs with tights, as well as color for winter, while avoiding too much cleavage. Jewelry is also on point with classic pieces that can be purchased inexpensively, or be the real thing, and useful for job interviews, and beyond college.

Darn it, the makeup tips didn't make the cut. What she said about smokey eye makeup and eyeliner vis a vis LAXers is quite useful.

[DeltaBetaBaby]

We avoided watches as a rule because you wouldn't want to glance at it, out of habit, and appear bored. I think that's a good rule, and then you don't have to worry about what they look like.

[VandalSquirrel]

Originally Posted by kt8319

I have already given directions about which outfits will be worn on which nights so they have plenty of time to prepare for recruitment in September. I was just wondering about everyone's policies, such as if you must have your hair down, no nail polish, no big earrings, etc. I'm not really sure how to go about setting these rules, and just wasn't sure about how most chapters have policies on those types of things. And of course I would never force anyone to go tanning or get a manicure or anything of that sort, just the basic regulations and allowances chapters provide. Also, I'm worried about how to enforce it because we have a couple of girls who sometimes ignore policies (things like dying their hair in an odd way right before recruitment would not surprise me).

Not only do you need alumnae support/involvement, as well as your National Headquarters, your chapter sisters need to get on board. Work with your advisors and resources to include the chapter in this process. If the women believe they had input into the looks for recruitment, as well as the consequences for not following the group, and in Soviet Sorority they will terminate membership and you're seen as Brosephina Stalin.

You've already mentioned before issues with morale and participation so use this opportunity of rush "looks" to get your sisters involved and let them know what the campus and HQ standards and expectations are, and get their input. If they help decide the punishment it won't be a surprise and not something you decided and had to enforce. Also their involvement will hopefully create expectations that are realistic and the majority will be comfortable with. If you have 100% compliance but women feel awkward with their appearance it will be obvious and just as bad as Vibram 5 finger shoes, eye brows that look as if they were done with a Sharpie, cut off acid wash overalls with a racer back body suit unsnapped in the crotch worn with a regular bra, and a zig zag part of blonde dyed hair that makes her head look like a Charlie Brown shirt.

My last bit of advice is if you have dresses and skirts at Preference. Make proper under garments mandatory. This means bras that don't show, shaper/smoothing (aka control top) panty hose or tights to prevent undergarment lines, and look into slips, half and full. Not only are slips ideal for any sorority who wears white or other light colors for initiation, they are great for sheer or light colored skirts and dresses with little to no lining. Half slips can be purchased at Walmart for under ten dollars if money is an issue. Instead of white undergarments a "nude" color is better and there are often shades in many stores to cover all kinds of "nude" and black is useful as well since many business and evening clothes are darker colors.

Some people may go against pantyhose but they are forgiving if someone has scars, missed a spot or cut themselves while shaving, and can prevent blisters in shoes. They can also do double duty under dress pants and cut down on clothing bulk if a woman wants a smoother or shaper. Keep clear nail polish on hand for runs, and also static spray so no one has a skirt that creeps. This whole rush clothing process may introduce some sisters to being properly fitted for a bra, learning about hair and skin care as well as makeup, and don't forget that a little tailoring and seamstress work can make a woman look and feel amazing. Your alumnae, as well as moms, grandmothers, and aunts may have sewing skills, as well as hair and makeup skills. Make the process fun and about trying new things and being who y'all are. Going to the makeup counter at Macy's or Sephora in JC Penney is a way to build sisterhood while still getting chapter work done.

[AOII Angel]

One thing no one has mentioned is that you should also have reasonable goals. Look at your sisters. If 25% of them won't follow these grooming tips to the T, you may be trying to push a laid back chapter too quickly into a Barbie type chapter. Pick your battles and change a few key things ever year if they're going to be a huge deal. As much as these things "matter," PNMs will be able to pick up strife if you have a bunch of pissed off women who were forced to do something they're not happy about.

[FSUZeta]

I did dress check last summer and had to suggest only a few girls exchange some items. Actually I let the officers make the decisions and they conferred with me-they were always spot on. If a girl bucked and argued with the decision then I stepped in. One neat outfit they had was a Kelly green top. The parameters were the color and that it be sleeveless or short sleeves. It was amazing to see the variety of blouses that the girls bought. By only specifying the color and sleeve, the girls were able to choose a style that flattered them. I think that they wore them with dark wash jeans(straight legged) and a strappy, heeled sandal and gold jewelry

Other recruitment v.p.'s have been more specific, I.e, you will buy an orange, yellow or pink v-neck, short-sleeved t-shirt from lands end #blah,blah,blah and khaki Bermuda shorts from jc Penney. We will sperry top-siders and will pull our hair back in pony-tails with ribbon to match your t-shirt.

[sweetmagnolia]

Originally Posted by VandalSquirrel

...in Soviet Sorority they will terminate membership and you're seen as Brosephina Stalin...

...just as bad as Vibram 5 finger shoes, eye brows that look as if they were done with a Sharpie, cut off acid wash overalls with a racer back body suit unsnapped in the crotch worn with a regular bra, and a zig zag part of blonde dyed hair that makes her head look like a Charlie Brown shirt...

*like*

[MaggieXi]

A sanction that typically works for the chapter I advise is that if someone violates dress-code for that day is that they are put on the clean up crew for either that day or bid day. No one wants to be stuck picking up while everyone else is either sleeping, eating or celebrating.

The advisors pull the offenders aside and tell them that they are being asked to stay to clean up because they violated the dress code. It cuts the board members out who are busy doing other things.