College is a milestone in everyone’s life, and is a time of growth and transformation. As you begin to start your first year of college you may be wondering what are the essentials needed to enhance your new college wardrobe. Packing can be a daunting and overwhelming time in anyone’s life, and narrowing down your wardrobe and getting extremely clever with storage containers is essential to being able to transform your wardrobe from high school to college. Creating a list of the essential wardrobe necessities of college is a great way to organize and speed up your packing. Here is a list of the key pieces you will need for your new college wardrobe:
School Spirit Apparel. Sweatshirts, water bottles, t-shirts, stickers and notebooks all are great items to buy once you get to campus in order to show your school spirit. Sounds a little corny I know, but they are always a safe bet for working out at the recreation center, attending class, or school athletic events. Flaunt your new school! A lot of times the apparel is really comfy too, which is always a positive when wearing them to early morning classes. Also, some websites such as VictoriaSecret.com has a campus section where you can buy trendy sweats, t-shirts and tote bags of many different universities across the country.
A Classic, Statement Dress. It may seem somewhat obvious to pack a few dresses, but make sure to pack a cute and versatile dress that you are able to wear to nice events. This is one of my favorite things because it is an entire outfit in one piece, so it keeps things simple and super cute. If you are planning on being involved in sororities or fraternities, or other off-campus groups, many of them will require some sort of formal wear, so you won’t regret packing it. Also, try and find a dress that is versatile and can be worn throughout the entire year, that way you get the most bang for your buck.
Everyday Basics. I’m sure it’s no secret, you’ve heard the rumors—college is pretty hectic. Between late night study sessions, early wake up calls, recreation time, socializing with friends, and attending class, you’re going to need some basic outfits to go along with your diverse and busy schedule. Cute tops, casual jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, workout clothes and pajamas are all essentials in the life of a college student. Sundresses, leggings, trendy tops with casual jeans and cozy sweaters are all easy to throw on and good outfits to have because they are super simple, yet stylish. Remember, you can always add some fun jewelry or some trendy flats to spice up any outfit.
Dorm wear/Loungewear. Also known to some of you crazy kids as ‘hungover’ wear. Regardless, as a college student you are going to want some lounge clothes to wear around the dorm when you are hanging out doing homework or watching movies with friends. It’s important to find something cute and cozy that you feel comfortable wearing, that way you will always look great no matter how you feel. However, I must warn you—do not get in the habit of wearing these clothes all the time because believe me it’s easier to fall into than you think. Make sure to distinguish time that you wear your lounging apparel and when you get dressed to go out for the day.
Another important necessity when living in the dorms is the bathrobe! When I was a college freshman I completely blanked about this and believe me I was sorry! I went to Target immediately and purchased one. They are extremely convenient when walking from the bathroom to your dorm room, as well as when you are relaxing in your room or doing your hair. Try and find a fun color and soft fabric to add a little luxury to it! Discount stores such as Overstok.com offer discounted prices on college necessities such as robes, and much more.
Professional Clothes. Despite the fact that 95 percent of the time you will be dressing casually to attend class, study and hang out with your friends, it is not a bad idea to have a few professional clothes in your wardrobe for important, random events. You never know when you may need them—perhaps an internship, job interview or class presentation, you’ll be glad you came prepared. It is also important to wear the correct professional clothes on a job interview, so do your homework on what is appropriate. Also, you never know when you may have to attend those mandatory class events such as an orchestra performance or play, which require you to dress up.
Those are the top items that should be in every college girl’s closet. Of course, there are so many options of things to bring so let us know if you have any other ideas of wardrobe essentials!
