Don't lie, back-to-school shopping has been your favorite part of school since kindergarten. But this year, you're heading off to college for the first time – and suddenly, the wardrobe you've been rocking since your freshman year of high school doesn't seem to cut it. College comes with its own particular slew of fashion crises: What kind of bag should you bring to a frat party? What do you wear to 8 A.M. classes when you're too tired to keep your eyes open? Don't stress – here are 10 key pieces to get you through college.
1. School spirit apparel
We'd never ask you to throw away your high school t-shirts and sweatpants. Hey, wear your “Seniors '12” t-shirt proudly! (While you're hitting the gym or in bed – not to class.) While it's great to hold onto memories from high school, you don't want to be that girl stuck in the past who starts every sentence with, “When I was in high school...” Sweatshirts, gym shorts, water bottles, bumper stickers – you name it, your college probably has its name stamped across it. Flaunt your new school proudly! Stop by your campus bookstore to add a little school spirit to your wardrobe. If you're looking for something beyond the basic school t-shirt, consider college apparel from brands like Victoria's Secret PINK, American Eagle, and more.
2. A cute, classy cocktail dress
A semi-formal cocktail dress might not seem like an obvious thing to pack, but it can get a surprising amount of mileage throughout the year. Sorority formals, holiday parties, and fancier occasions off-campus (especially if you go to a city school) all tend to need a cocktail dress. For the most versatile pick, go with a dress that isn't too revealing and can be worn year-round. A classic LBD is always a good choice; it looks just as cute at your sorority's spring formal as it does at a holiday party.








