In present day consumer culture, almost anything can be bought and identity is no exception. An artsy persona, like everything else, can be purchased—pre-packaged and custom-labeled—for a small price, of course. If the economic slump has wrought a minor hole in your leather billfold, not to worry: these surefire tips will ensure that peers and passersby alike nod and murmur approvingly, “He’s/she’s so artsy,” as you saunter past.



5. Non-prescription clear (read: fake) glasses

These preferably oversized glasses will instantaneously provide street-cred and up your “cool” factor even if you have 20/20 vision.

4. Shoulder strap bag

On a college campus you will be judged by the means with which you lug your books from class to class. Totes are for preps and backpacks are for conformists; go with the sidestrap. Bonus points if you attach a pin that says “The sky is falling,” or something similarly melancholic.



3. Vintage t-shit, skinny jeans, and converses

The staple outfit for any artsy student, these items can be purchased from a number of chain stores including American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, and H&M. Make sure to pretend you found the t-shirt while rummaging through your parents’ old stuff. Seeming authentic is key.



2. Drink copious amounts of coffee

A coffee cup in hand will signal to the world that you’ve been up all night pouring over the new [insert favorite author] novel. Coffee should be obtained from a small café. Starbucks drinkers are to be scorned.



1. Moleskine (or other pocket) notebook

Employed by Van Gogh, Picasso and Hemingway, the strategic use of this item will situate you within the great Western Tradition. Notebook is especially effective in displaying your creativity when used for jotting down abstract thoughts or elaborate doodles in the presence of others.



0. Appear non-conformist.



­—Ama R. Francis is the incoming Covers Editor. She’s concentrating in irony.