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.
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3. A dressed-down outfit for class
College life can be pretty hectic. Between late nights in the library and the occasional early morning classes, looking cute for class can sometimes slip to the bottom of your priority list. This is where your go-to class outfit comes in, whether it’s denim leggings that don’t dig into your skin or a cozy sweater that hides last night’s pizza binge. When you’re running late in the morning, it’ll be easy to throw on your fallback outfit and make it to class on time. (And a tip for Friday classes? Forget about dressing to the nines – most of your classmates will be too tired from the long week and a potential party last night to turn campus into a catwalk.)
4. A going-out outfit that makes you feel like a supermodel
Party time! While you might have worn the same outfit from school to a party in your friend’s basement in high school, college parties tend to have a different dress code. A trusty black bandage skirt and pretty top is the standard uniform at most schools, but feel free to think outside the box. Show off your legs in a flirty mini-dress or add a laidback touch with a denim jacket.
5. Fierce – but walkable! – going-out shoes
You have a hot dress, hair worthy of a shampoo commercial, impeccable makeup, and… flip-flops? We’re all for slipping into flip-flops at the end of the night if blisters set in, but if you know your night won’t entail too much walking, try heels! A pair of platform pumps gives you height plus a little extra comfort; wedges are an especially walkable choice.
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6. A cross-body bag for essentials
Remember this handy college lingo acronym: P-MILK. Phone, money, ID, license, keys – those are the essentials when you go out at night. It can be annoying to lug a big bag around to parties and it’s nearly impossible to dance with one on your shoulder. (If your stuff doesn’t fall out first, you’re almost guaranteed to whack someone in the face with it.) A slim, cross-body bag is ideal for nights out because it fits just the essentials, is hands-free, and stays put when you move. Pick one that coordinates with your wardrobe: If most of your going-out clothes are black, try a bold color; if you tend to wear lots of color, opt for a fun metallic or an easy neutral.
7. Comfortable walking shoes
In high school, the longest distance you ever needed to walk was the full fifty feet from the school parking lot to the building. That’s all about to change. You’ll walk everywhere: from your dorm to classes, the dining hall, and parties. Make sure you have at least one or two pairs of shoes you can walk all day in – your feet will thank you! If flats pinch your feet, try a sturdier pair of flat oxfords or boots.
8. Weather-appropriate gear, rain or shine
If you’re heading to school in another state, check the weather before you pack! You don’t want to shiver through your first northern winter without a heavy-duty coat, scarf, gloves, and earmuffs. If you’re heading to warmer climate than you’re used to, stock up on a wide-brimmed hat for long days in the sun and plenty of breezy shorts and tanks. Heading into a rainy region? Don’t leave without proper rain boots, a raincoat, and an umbrella.
9. Statement accessories
Ready for a reality check? Somewhere between books and a night out, your wallet will get stretched uncomfortably thin in college. But even without much cash for new clothes, you can still change up your look with accessories. A statement necklace instantly revives the same top you wore in high school and a funky belt makes your favorite going-out dress as good as new.
10. One jacket that goes with everything
Whether a sleek leather jacket or a denim topper is more your style, you’ll find yourself reaching for your jacket nearly every day once you’re at school. Stash it in your bag when you overheat during crowded lectures, but you’ll be thankful it’s there when you trek back from the library late at night. On weekends, it’ll be the perfect way to cover up while walking to and from parties. And don’t forget those mornings when you’re running late – adding a jacket makes you look instantly polished.
With ten staples under your (very fashionable) belt, you’ll have an outfit for every college occasion. Happy shopping!