Fall is my favorite season, and I think it is important to prepare for it by having the top ten essentials you need for college! It’s time to get cozy for the chilly weather, spooky movies, and football games this season! Whether it comes to fashion, makeup, coziness, or treats, this list will start your fall starter pack! Here is what I think will help get you in the spirit of the season:
- A couple pairs of fuzzy or cabin socks
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These are a must-have to keep your feet warm during the chilly weather and keep you cozy while you snuggle in your dorm! They can have cute patterns too. I highly recommend checking out Target’s sock section because I just bought some fuzzy socks with sloths on them… I mean, come on. Who can resist a pair of crazy and cute socks?
- A few staple flannels
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Not only are flannels fashionable, but they are so convenient to throw over top of a t-shirt or tie around your waist if you get cold. They are so comfy too! Wearing a flannel is the epitome of fall fashion, and it adds a dimension to any outfit with a checkered pattern. The red and black one is the most recognized color scheme, but you can find a mixture of colors at almost any store! Mix and match them with dressing your outfit up or down!
- Beanie
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Beanies are so easy to throw on to walk to class when it’s chilly in the mornings! They can be basic knit ones or have pom-poms on the top. I personally love beanies from Target or American Eagle Outfitters. They add style to any outfit and give you an excuse to not have to do your hair – just throw on a beanie and no one will know you had to use dry shampoo this morning!
- A cute pair of boots
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These can be combat, ankle, riding, knee-high, lace up, Doc Martens, or Ugg boots! There are so many types of fall boots; you just have to choose which style best goes with your aesthetic. Black, tan, or brown colored ones will match almost any outfit. Although, a vibrant color like maroon will make your outfit “pop” and add contrast to basic colors! As long as they keep you warm and fit your sense of style, you can’t go wrong! Try layering cozy socks underneath of your boots to stick out the top for a small touch to your outfit!
- Chunky sweaters and cardigans
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I feel like these are a given in the fall time. Thrift stores are the best to find chunky, knit sweaters! Check out your local Goodwill or Community Aid, and don’t be afraid to buy them an extra size up so they can be extra cozy! Tucking a sweater into the front of your jeans adds flare to your outfit! You can also layer a collared shirt under a sweater for extra layers on a cold day while looking stylish! If thrifting isn’t your thing, you can always check out Target, Old Navy, or H&M!
- A neutral-colored jacket that matches any outfit
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A neutral-colored jacket is so convenient to have because it will go over top of whatever outfit you’re wearing and match it! I recommend jacket colors such as beige, tan, grey, black, white, cream, burgundy, or maroon. These shades will compliment a pop of color underneath or even a basic white shirt or sweater. Common fall jacket types include peacoats, denim jackets, wool coats, puffers, wrap coats, rain jackets, and teddy bear jackets. Choose whatever is most suitable to your style. Any of these types will be practical and comfortable, so it’s a win-win!
- Fall lipstick shades to match your outfits
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I love fall lipstick shades because the possibilities are endless! Typical fall colors include maroon, cranberry, wine, plum, orange, red, and nudes. I personally love the brands NYX and Maybelline for fall lipsticks and glosses. Some of my favorites are Maybelline Matte Lipsticks in the shades “Daringly Nude,” “Touch of Spice,” “Clay Crush,” and “Nude Lust” and the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in shade “Stockholm.” The YouTuber KathleenLights has so many awesome suggestions including swatches of the shades in her videos if you want to find more you like!
- Thermos for coffee or hot chocolate
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When the weather turns chilly, it is the ideal time to enjoy warm beverages like coffee and hot chocolate! You have to get a thermos in order to keep them warm and carry them to and from class with you. Stores like Target and Wal-Mart sell them, unless you want a cuter one; then check out TJ Maxx or Starbucks! Caramel and pumpkin-flavored coffees are in prime time right now, so your friends can’t judge you for drinking them every day. It’s justified!
- A collection of movies to watch in your dorm when it’s a chilly night
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Movies are a necessity when you find yourself sitting in your dorm, bored after you finish your homework (or when you’re procrastinating like me)! If you are close with your roomies like me, then gather around someone’s laptop or TV and cuddle in to watch a spooky film. If you want to spend a night in with your friends, this is such an easy and fun way to do it. Just find a Halloween movie on Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube or on DVD and grab some snacks! Some of my top picks are: Nightmare Before Christmas, It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, Hocus Pocus, Coraline, Hotel Transylvania, Edward Scissorhands, Casper, and many actual horror/thriller movies! Whether it’s a Halloween classic or a movie that makes you jump, it’s a fun way to enjoy the season!
- Pumpkin spice and apple flavored snacks for your dorm
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And, last but not least, pumpkin spice and apple flavored treats are one of my favorite things about this time of year! I am pumpkin-obsessed! If you are not a lover of pumpkin spice like me, you can always indulge in yummy apple and apple pie-flavored goodies! My favorites at the store are: Pumpkin Spice Oreos, pumpkin roll, Pillsbury Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls, pumpkin ice cream, pumpkin breads, apple cider, apple cobbler, apple cinnamon oatmeal, and caramel apple dip! Venture to your nearest supermarket and find as many fall-flavored foods as you can, I dare you!
So you are now all set to start collecting your fall essentials for the season! Make sure to share your treats with your friends and shop with them for fall fashion! These items will help you make the most of your fall and enjoy it while it lasts! Happy sweater weather!
HCXO, Rachel