The Best Sorority Rush and Recruitment Outfits Start with Personal Style & Comfort
Sorority rush (or sorority recruitment) is all about showing up as your best self and that starts with wearing something that makes you feel good.
Recruitment week moves fast, and so do first impressions. The right outfit helps you walk into each room knowing you belong there. That doesn’t mean overdoing it. Stay true to your personal style by showing up polished and wearing pieces that feel good from morning intros to late-night recaps with your roommate.
Southern Tide’s look is all about coastal inspired yet preppy fresh silhouettes and a laid-back, classic look that never tries too hard. We’re talking confidence, without the compromise. If you're wondering what to wear to rush, start by asking what feels like you, then elevate it with classic pieces that never go out of style.
What to Wear to Sorority Rush: A Breakdown by Round
Each round has its own feel and each outfit should match the energy. Below, we’ll break it down step-by-step so you can feel ready to tackle one of the most exciting parts of your year.
Open House Round – Keep It Relaxed & Polished
Day one calls for easy polish. This is usually the most casual round and it sets the tone for the rest of rush week.
Go for something breathable and confident, like a cotton poplin sundress or a sporty tennis dress. If dresses aren’t for you, a cute skort paired with a tailored top can look just as put together.
Campus heat is no joke, especially in the South, so be sure to prioritize light weight fabrics. A cotton dress or short sleeve polo in a classic color can keep you cool without looking underdressed.
Philanthropy Round – Elevated Casual
Most sororities hand out T-shirts for this round, so you’ll need to style around it.
A great bottom and accessories are the key to pulling this outfit together. When it comes down to it, choosing a cute skirt, tailored shorts, or a linen pant make your outfit look sharp while still being comfortable.
Don’t forget to style your T-shirt. Oftentimes they can be a bit oversized so a slight front tuck or a knot at the hem keeps the shirt from swallowing your frame.
Jewelry, shoes, and your bag matter most here. Try gold hoops, your favorite bracelets, and low-profile white sneakers or neutral sandals. A pop of personality shows you care, without looking like you’re trying too hard.
Tip: Tie a cute scarf around your neck or in your hair to give a flair of personality.
Sisterhood Round – Time to Dress It Up
Now’s the moment to show a little more personality with a semi-formal look.
Go for a cocktail style dress in a rich color that compliments you. Navy, deep green, or soft blush are always good options. Choose a more modest neckline and hemline, but don’t shy away from fun details like ruffles or puff sleeves. A defined waist flatters in photos and in person.
The goal is classic, not plain. This round is about showing you're someone they want to spend weekends and weeknights with so let your dress say you're put-together and ready for whatever’s next.
Pref Night – Elegant and Memorable
Pref night is the final round and your most formal look.
Pick a dress that feels refined and comfortable (you’ll likely be sitting and standing quite a bit). Aim for soft tones like ivory, powder blue, and lilac with minimal patterns and clean lines. Avoid anything too flashy; the tone is more meaningful than showy. Remember that this will be the last impression you make!
Accessories should feel intentional but subtle (less is always more). Dainty earrings, a slim bracelet, and shoes that you can walk in with confidence will pair well with any pref night dress.
P.S. Don’t forget the little things – a clean, floral fragrance will keep you feeling fresh all week long.
Sorority Rush Essentials: Bags, Shoes & Accessories That Work All Week
Rush week moves fast and your accessories need to work just as hard as your outfits. Always prioritize comfort (you won’t regret it) while choosing versatile accessories to pair with all of your sorority rush outfits.
Rush Week Essentials Checklist
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Neutral bag — a cross-body or a woven bag with a handle you can hold while walking
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Comfortable shoes — clean white sneakers, neutral sandals or platform sandals
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Minimalist jewelry—small gold hoops, delicate chain necklaces, simple stacked rings
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Oil blotting sheets and lip balm to keep fresh between rounds
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Notebook or phone notes app to jot down impressions after each house
Southern Tide’s bags and sunglasses seamlessly pair with every look on your rush list. Our styles are ones you’ll wear again and again.
Rush Dresses You’ll Wear All Semester (Not Just This Week)
Rush outfits don’t need to be one-hit wonders. Build your closet with pieces that you can wear any day. A cotton dress you wear to Sisterhood Round can work again for game days, brunch, or your first chapter meeting.
Southern Tide’s dresses are built to stand the test of time. Crafted with quality fabric, thoughtful details, and easy-care materials, these pieces are made to look good and last.
Shop styles that work from rush to tailgates (including our collegiate collections).
Find the Best Sorority Rush Outfits with Southern Tide
Shopping for sorority rush outfits in South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, or Florida? Southern Tide’s got you covered. Browse online or use our store locator to shop our most loved styles in-person.
The goal this recruitment season: look put-together and stay comfortable through every round.
Prep for rush in true Southern style – start with Southern Tide.
