Wardrobe Essentials for College Girls
I received the following email recently:
“Hey i love your site and find it really helpful. I’m a senior in high school and will be in college next fall. I want to start with a fresh wardrobe. Do you have any suggestions on what is needed in everyone’s wardrobe?”
Photo by TeeRish
This is a question I get a lot and I’m pretty sure most girls have trouble with this. When you’re in college, you’re really just starting to develop a wardrobe, a closet full of clothes that will last you not only your 4 years of university, but on into “the real world.”
You want to keep up with trends, but at the same time, you want clothes that won’t be unwearable next season. I hear you.
Here is what I believe to be the definitive guide to what every college girl should have in her wardrobe. No, I’m not going to tell you to buy diamond studs or a trench coat, firstly because we’ve all heard those before, and secondly because college girls just don’t dress that way in real life. I’m gonna tell you about what you’re actually going to want to be wearing for your four years of college life.
Absolute Must’s
4-5 Pairs of Jeans That Fit Well
Jeans (not sweatpants!) are the basics of a college girl’s closet. Find a brand of denim that fits you well, and then stock up on different basic washes and styles. Rotate these through the week (no one will notice if you wear the same pair twice in one week, I promise.)
One of these pairs can be a trendy style, like skinny jeans or wide leg jeans. Just don’t buy all trendy denim, because you’ll have to buy new jeans next season or risk looking really out of date.
Brands to check out: American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap
A Classic Dress
This is my favorite because it’s pretty much an entire outfit in one easy piece. A lot of fashion experts say that you need a “little black dress”, and of course I agree that black dresses are chic and classic. However, I think if a dress fits you well and isn’t trashy looking, it doesn’t need to be black.
Let’s face it: most college girls aren’t going to cocktail parties that require LBD’s. If you are, by all means, buy a little black dress. If you’re the typical college girl, just get a dress that fits you well in a color that flatters your skin tone.
4-6 Basic Tank Tops
Get a few tank tops of varying lengths in different basic colors like black, white, grey and navy blue. These can be worn alone in summer or layered under cardigans, jackets and long-sleeved tops in winter.
Also, look for tanks that are 100% cotton to avoid the weird clinging that some blend fabrics can cause. No one wants to see the outline of your bra under your tank top!
Brands I like: H&M, Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap Body.
1-3 Chic Cardigans
You don’t have to go 100% cashmere, although that’s certainly nice and everything. Most college girls don’t have the time or money to get things dry cleaned regularly so don’t think that cashmere is a must!
Pick up some basic cotton cardigans at H&M, J Crew or GAP and layer them over your tank tops for a look that’s chic and trendy at the same time. Get one basic black and at least one in a color like purple, hot pink or chocolate brown.
Great Bras & Panties
These will take you SO far. Underwear is the foundation of your look. If you don’t have a bra that fits well, the rest of your outfit is not going to look right. Same goes for panties.
Spend the time and the money shopping for good well-fitting bras and panties that don’t pinch, bulge or show under your clothes.
Brands I like: Victoria’s Secret bras and Hanky Panky thongs.
A Bag That Holds Everything
You want a bag that’s good quality (canvas, leather, or strong fake-leather are good bets), goes with most of your wardrobe, and still looks chic. The right bag can also go from day to night, so look for classic details like metal accents.
Also, bonus points if you can find a bag that has lots of pockets and zippered compartments to keep you organized!
Brands I love: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Nine West, Coach
1-2 Dressy Tops
Look for satin, lace, bright colors and cute prints. Wear a dressy top under a fall/spring jacket or by itself with jeans and heels to a party. Don’t go see-through, uber low-cut or too-tight.
1 Pair Nice Dress Pants
Get a well-fitting trouser in black or dark grey with a wide leg to wear on job interviews and recruiting sessions. Your dress pants should be long enough to wear with heels, but not so long that they drag on the ground.
1 White Button-Down Shirt
Again, this is most likely going to be used for job interviews and/or internships.
Look for a button-down with a little stretch and a cut that’s flattering to your body shape. You don’t want one that’s too tight of course, but you also don’t want to look like a box.
Spending a little more money here will be well worth it because you can wear this shirt to work when you get a big girl job later.
Brands to consider: Banana Republic, Gap
1 Well-Cut Spring/Fall Jacket
This can be as casual or as formal as you like. It just needs to match most of your clothes and has to fit well!
The cut is everything with jackets so spend as long as it takes shopping around for the right jacket. Don’t settle for something that doesn’t fit just right.
1 or 2 Winter Coats
Those of you who live in Cali don’t need these, obviously (unless you like to ski). For those of us in areas that actually have winters, warm winter coats are a must. I like classic wool pea coats and cute faux-fur trimmed parkas by brands like J Crew and Juicy Couture.
1-2 Pairs Casual Flats
Essential for spring and fall, ballet flats add Kate Moss chicness to any outfit and are usually fairly inexpensive as well! Get one pair in a basic color like black or brown, and one pair in a bright color like Kelly green, red or yellow.
Other cute trends to try with your flats: metal embellishment (think Tory Burch), patent leather, and patterns. The choice is yours!
1 Pair Good Winter Shoes/Boots
If you’re living in an area that has a real “winter” season, you need some serious winter footwear if you’re gonna be walking anywhere (and I assume you will be.)
Unfortunately, you might have to sacrifice style for function a little in this category, but it’s better than slipping and falling in the snow or having really cold feet all day!
Or you could just buy a pair of adorable snow boots like those to the right by Juicy Couture. In that case, you wouldn’t have to sacrifice anything.
1 Pair Black Pumps
These are to wear with your dress pants and white shirt for job interviews and professional occasions. Spend a little extra money and get good-quality shoes because if you take care of them, they will last you forever!
Dormwear/Sweats
For hanging around the dorm or apartment, get some cute sweats! Note that these are for hanging and lounging only and are NOT to be worn to class, except if you’ve been up all night studying for a final and plan to go back to sleep after you take it.
Even for a final, think hard about wearing sweats in public. The only other exception is if you’re working out, but I’m sure you know that.
I like sweats by Victoria’s Secret PINK, and So Low’s foldover pants are a very popular college choice.
Nice To Have
At Least 1 Pair of Super-Flattering Special Jeans
Splurge a little on this item. The right pair of flattering jeans will take you SO far.
You should look for a clean, dark wash jean with a straight or bootcut leg that is long enough to be worn with heels but not so long that it drags on the ground. Spend the time and try on as many pairs as it takes to find the perfect ones.
I like True Religion and Paige Premium Denim.
1 or More Pairs of Sexy Heels
For wearing to parties with your super-flattering jeans, get at least one pair of really cute and fun high heels. I like shoes in a bright color or a patent leather with a heel height of 3-4 inches, but get whatever speaks to you!
These can be as outrageous or simple as you want – express your style, these are your party shoes!
1-3 Summer Skirts
These are a must for me, but not essential to everyone’s wardrobe. I like knee-length solid colored and floral printed skirts, because they are so easy to pair with flip flops, pretty jewelry and a simple tank top in the warmer months.
Sandals
Of course these are nonessential, but so much fun. Sandals are a great way to add color to your wardrobe without spending lots of money. My favorite brand is Havaianas – they are so comfortable and look brand new forever.
Black Opaque Tights
Tights were huge this winter and will continue to be popular into next winter. Black opaque tights are inexpensive and so basic to a wardrobe. They look so chic with heels, flats and most dresses.
Slippers
For walking around in your apartment or dorm. I like really ridiculous, fun slippers – bright colors, fluffy textures or duck prints, for example. They’re slippers – you’re only going to wear them indoors.. go as crazy as you want.
Rain Boots
Cute rain boots are nice to have but not essential. (I still haven’t found my perfect pair yet!)
A Cozy Hoodie
This is another nice-to-have college staple. Hoodies with your college’s logo are great for lounging, studying and being comfortable, but don’t fall into the trap of wearing them everywhere! Use with caution.
Spanx
These body-shapers are great for anytime you’re wearing tight-fitting clothing and want to smooth everything out. Say goodbye to “fat days” forever. Jessica Alba swears by them so you know they must work!
Cozy Bathrobe
So nice to have when you’re walking to and from the bathroom in winter or just hanging around your room. Get one in a bright color and supersoft fabric for the ultimate in adorable luxury.
So there you have it, the top items that should be in every college girl’s closet. Of course, these are just my opinions and you might have your own ideas about this too. Let me know if you agree with me, or if you think something is missing by leaving a comment or sending an email!
What are your closet essentials? Let me know in the comments!
Posted on on March 3, 2008 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: Basics, Clothing, Shopping, Wardrobe
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Abby Daniel
Wow thank you so much for your advise its really helped! Please post other places to buy cute clothes!! I love the tildon cardigan!
Cadi
A good pair of cute sneakers. I don’t mean superhigh quality workout shoes, I mean just cute little sneaks that you can haul ass to class while wearing, while still looking good. I totally love the little Champion retro-style sneakers from Payless.
Amber
I totally agree with this post, I own the majority of whats featured in here! I would also suggest stocking up on cute thermals for the winter and tons of cute flip flops from Abercrombie or Old Navy, they’re good shower shoes and you can match them with your wardrobe!
Chants
This is a great post and am planning my wardroe around this as I type! I found a cool website that offers you some great style advice specific to you called istylista.com and is a onlne personal stylist service. There’s a great free trial where you cn get a taster or for only $30 you can buy a 30 page styls guide specific to you – it’s weirdly accurate!
Zephyr
Abby Daniel – No problem! I will see what I can do. And I know, I love that cardigan too!
Cadi – Ah, I forgot sneakers, although I just usually just wear ballet flats in the fall. I only have 2 pairs of sneakers I think – some cute converse ones and a pair for working out. But I might have to check out those Payless ones..
Amber – Ooh, good idea on the thermals. Those are definitely nice to have in winter. And yesss, flip flops. I like Havaianas, but A&F and Old Navy do make cute ones too.
Cadi
Oh how I love my ballet flats, but alas, I run like a newborn giraffe on ice in them. Since I’m almost constantly late, that’s a problem!
The Payless ones are fab because they’re cheap, but still cute. Not the most supportive footwear on earth, but that’s what insoles are for.
Another suggestion for good-to-have items…good scarves. They’re awesome. I wear one almost daily. You can wrap them any way you please, they help as good transition pieces (you can wear a lighter one with a T-shirt to add a little extra warmth), and with the wider ones, they double as wraps. Love!
Alyssa
I alwas read your site and I love it. This post is really great as a shopping list for clothes. Thank you so much
lauren
these are great suggestions!
One i have that is fashion related but not clothes is a cute umbrella! its something you will use suprisingly more than you’d expect and it’s nice to have something beyond basic black..
why not have an umbrella as stylish as you are!
xoxo
Zephyr
Cadi – Haha! I just pictured a baby giraffe trying to run, that’s a really great mental image. And yes, scarves! I forgot that one, even though I just posted about cute scarves the other day…
Alyssa – Thanks! I’m happy this post helped :)
Lauren – I like the idea of a cute umbrella but the problem is I ALWAYS lose umbrellas. Every time I’ve had one I liked, I left it at a party, in a classroom, or put it down somewhere stupid and forgot about it. I can’t be trusted with a cute umbrella!
Chic Girl
Cute blog! I’m going to recommend it to my son’s girlfriend who is off to college in the fall. Love your suggestions!
Cadi
*raises hand* I lose things ALL the time. Totally found something that works. Carabiners. (Google ‘em, you’ll see what I mean). I seriously put them on everything that has a loop on it (keys, camera strap, UMBRELLA). It’s great because once you’re done using whatever it is, you clip it to the handle of your purse, backpack, belt loop, whatever. It works perfectly for umbrellas, because it can stay out to dry, so you’re not soaking your stuff, but you still have it stuck to you so that you can’t leave it behind!
Zephyr
Chic Girl – Thanks so much!
Cadi – Carabiners? Okay, added to my “must-google” list. I definitely need those because I’m always losing stuff! Thanks for the suggestion!
Liah
This post is so on point! I couldn’t agree more about what you suggested for the college girl — I have all those things in my wardrobe for the past fall and spring semesters.
Zephyr
Liah – That’s great, glad you liked it! :)
Amy
Long time visitor, first time commenter.
Best. Post. Ever. :)
It’s so true that most basics lists and such that you read online are not geared towards the average collge student, in terms of both lifestyle and finances. Thanks for the very practical entry.
Brittany
I know so many people are absolutely going to disagree with my suggestion, but I highly suggest a pair of UGG boots. So many people around campus wear them (at least here in Arizona). They are super comfy and can be worn with jeans, sweats, and skirts (although I hate the way that looks).
Choo Choo
This is a great list. So many times I’ve seen “essential” lists that are way overstocked with unneccessary items. This is realistic, and edited to perfection!
Zephyr
Amy – So happy you found the article useful! It’s true -every list of “essentials” I’ve seen online has always been totally unrealistic! We can’t all be walking around every day in “classic trenches”, little black dresses and diamond studs, come on now!
Brittany – That’s true, I would definitely put uggs in the winter shoes/boots category if they’re your thing. I personally don’t have any but if you love them and that’s your style, they are a really popular and practical choice.
Choo Choo – Haha, you’re so right. I can’t help but laugh when I read some of those “essential” lists. I don’t know who they were written for sometimes but it definitely wasn’t for a college girl! I’m happy you liked this list and thanks for the nice comments :)
Lala
Wow, this article is so so so useful! Thanks for writing such a great great guide!
I also got happier cuz i have almost all of those items on my wardrobe and i use them a lot going on college classes, so it showed me i was right on my choices hehe.
thanks again and congrats for this great great magnifiqué article and website, im in love with it!
Zephyr
Lala – I’m so happy you liked the article! Thanks so much for the sweet comment :)
M.E. Williams
Not that most college girls have the time and space to hand-wash stuff, roll it in a towel to get the excess water out of it, and then lay it out flat to dry… but regardless of what the label may say, hand-washing (preferably in something like Eucalan, or Woolite with a small amount of hair conditioner in the final rinse) is way, way, way better for cashmere and other animal fibers (wool, alpaca, etc) than dry-cleaning.
Washing won’t break down the fibers, but the dry-cleaning chemicals might, so your cashmere will last longer if you hand-wash it!
Also — I have Uggs that I love, but they don’t have suede below the ankle, just smooth leather, the Brooks style. They don’t look “like Uggs” when I wear boot-cut jeans over them, because only the smooth leather part shows, they’re very durable if you take care of them, and I don’t think I’d be able to survive Ohio winters without them. (It’s my theory that the Uggs that fashion people object to are the all-suede ones, especially in light colors that show dirt easily, and worn with inappropriate outfits. They won’t go with that one nice not-necessarily-black dress, yo.)
I would add to this list: several long-sleeve tees in different colors. You can layer them under the cardigans and over the tanks on really cold days, you can wear them with your loungewear, etc. They’re versatile and useful.
I’d also suggest that the spring/fall jacket be water-resistant. ;) (April showers, etc!)
Zephyr
M.E. – That’s good to know! With the few cashmere items I have, I just try not to wear them too often, or at least not spill things on them. I get them dry cleaned if there’s a spot or anything, but for the most part I just keep them really clean. Now that I know I can hand-wash, that will definitely be a time-saver.
Jenalee
This is such an awesome idea for a blog! There is good for girls getting ready to go to college and are worried about what college girls wear so they will fit in. It is so true that college is a time to start developing your wardrobe. This is true especially when you are a junior and senior like me and are going on interviews for internships and jobs. Once you get the basics down, you can start finding whats good for you.
Shar
“Go either very cheap or very expensive. It’s the middle ground that is fashion nowhere.â€Karl Lagerfield.
I completely agree! I’m purging my closet right now and trying to closely fit with this list–i’m not in college, but it’s still hellpful, right? Yeah, it is. :-). Most of the stuff i’m donating/tossing are items that are middle priced.
Thank you so much for this (realistic) guide!
Sandra
this is a great list this is my shopping guide for summer. I your looking for cute rain boots you can get a pair at Victorias Secret they have two really cute pairs.
Melanie
I would have to say multiple cosy hoodies iare my closet essentials! I live in England and its cold pretty much all the time so i kind of have to live in them, because those nice litle sweaters you see, which are adorable and smart looking, are always sooooooooooooooo thin! I commute at 7.15am in the morning so im all about keeping warm!
Zephyr
Shar – Totally true. And doesn’t it feel sooo good to toss stuff you never wear? It’s like a burden lifted off your shoulders!
Sandra – Oh good! And I will def. have to check those out, I’m still searching for the perfect pair…
Melanie – Ah, hoodies are definitely a winter staple. In fact, my room is freezing so I’m wearing one right now!
Reni
I like this list a lot…everything is so true. Only thing I don’t agree with is the not wearing sweats to class thing. Maybe it’s because I go to a huge school spread over 5 different campuses in two different towns and we all have to take our campus buses to get to class (seriously if there’s traffic it could take 45mins to get to your next class) and for such instances I need to be comfy so I can whip out a textbook and highlighter and get to studying/or start writing a paper or w/e…sweats are essential. I mean what if it’s snowing or raining or you just happen to feel like crap. And this is all coming from someone who lovessssss fashion….but some days nothing can beat a great, comfy pair of sweats.
Ok…my rant is over now. Again, great list!
Zephyr
Reni – Hmm, I guess if it works for you then it’s cool. I’m just not a fan – jeans aren’t uncomfortable, and they look so much better. Wearing sweats out of the house once in a while might be okay (I’ve worn sweats to a final once or twice), but I don’t think they’re appropriate for classes on the regular.
Rachael
Ah i love this. I basically love all of your site. Its amazing because its really practical. I’m only a freshman in high school but I pretty much think that all of these are wardrobe staples and you should have them in high school, and by the time you’re in college you should definitely have all of these. Thanks so much!
kimmei
i put this post on my site, hope you don’t mind (it’s credited to you of course) :) under my interesting reads
Lyd
this is quite helpful too…
definitely get some cute t-shirts with little pictures on them :), they will make an outfit look cute and happy!!
Jerris
this site was just what i was looking for im starting college this fall and i won’t be able to carry my whole closet with me all i need are the basics awesomeness!!!!!!
Nisha
This is amazing – I didn’t think it was possible to really summarize all this in a nutshell! Job well done…I only wish I had read this myself before entering college last fall! hahaha oh well it’s not too late to change up some stuff!
I actually had a question…I’ve decided to go “bolder” on my usual look. Wear things that stand out, and make a statement. Any suggestions? My style of preference would def. have to be the surfer/preppy/laid back type. haha thanks!
Fabuloustaste
I have one thing to add to the list- i find myself needing a lot of more casual acessories- my favorite go-to are a pair of fabulous earrings that i bought from premium pearl- they are so great to throw on and so classic!
Jane
That was definitely the most inclusive, non ridiculous fashion post I’ve ever read. You nailed it! I have just finished my first year of college and I wish I would have known these things before I left last fall! Thanks so much! I already have a list for all my summer shopping of basics I need.
Aarti
Hi!
Thanks so much for this list. I have to go shopping in a couple days, and honestly I was lost!!
One essential thing I am adding to my personal list is shorts.
Since Im going to study in a tropical country, shorts are a must. And, when its too hot/rainy for jeans, I usually wear 3/4s. They are definitely casual, but formal enough for classes. 3/4s go with all sorts of tops. And, they are super comfy : )
But really, your essentials list did its job.
I now have a shopping list ready, and I am no longer frustrated and totally confused.
Sarah
Hunter rainboots are GREAT! They come in a million colors and you can buy fleece inserts for them to make them warmer for the winter. Only downside is they are pretty expensive (about $100), but they’re totally worth it.
liz
Wow I can’t thank you enough for this list. I am most definitely printing out this article when I go shopping. Your suggestions were both sensible and fashion forward. Many people forget that college freshmen are not all rich girls made of money. So I thank you so SO much!
Nessa
I don’t usually post comments on sites like I am, however I was thrilled to see this list of essentials that you put up! Thank you so much! I’m going to be a senior in high school next year and this list wiil be very helpful for me in my quest for college clothes etc. Great tips, exactly what I needed :)
Jessica
Wow! I am very impressed with this article and website in general.
I’m starting my freshman year of college in the fall and just came across your site after googling “college dorm shopping.” College shopping is daunting to me right now, but I think your articles are really going to be a big help.
You have great suggestions. Your style is definitely reflected in your articles. I appreciate all of your correct grammar and sentence structures. (Have you ever gotten that left as a comment? haha) I’m a perfectionist and love all of the items you identified. This site is definitely in my favorites now.
Anyway, thank you! :) Keep it up!
Lyd
Also, get good quality shoes that will last you throughout college!!!! layering a tank top under a t-shirt is great as well!!
Ally
Thank you SO much for this post, I have been looking for a list like this for quite a while now!
I also like having some graphic tees and soffe shorts (maybe or maybe not together) in my wardrobe. Graphic tees can give an outfit a whole different vibe, and soffe shorts are good for anything from sleeping to working out to going out on a warmer day… just my two cents though :]
Thanks again!
Shiney
GREAT list.
I start college in September and I’m so glad I found your list.
Although I’m from Jamaica it’s still practical for me, with a few tweaks of course.
Love the list, thanks for making it!
Fashion Knight
The post has alot of sense. I hope more women will appreciate it more than I do.
Stacy
love this site. I just discovered it today. I really need to print this and take it with me when I go school shopping. Thanks! Does anyone know where to find cute (designer) school supplies?
Nia
i’m starting college in a few weeks and this list was so great something my parents wallet appreciated too, hehe i totally agree about the jeans and sweats thing unless it’s must i’m living with my parents during college and my dad is really old fashioned and would freak if i wore pajama pants or sweats to a class, GREAT JOB!! i have everything on the list well except spanx although my mom has some and i’ve heard great things about them but THANKS SO MUCH!!
Liz
I love this list. I was wondering if you think I could get most of the essentials for $300.00 I have some jeans but thats about it. Before now I have only worn jeans and t-shirts, but I really want to change my style for college. Thanks for the great advice!
Brittany
This website is great! I was looking for some ideas on what clothes to purchase for the fall semester and you list has helped me A LOT!
Christina
I just reread this post after a while today, and I have to say, you’ve hit the nail on the head with all of these suggestions.
I found myself feeling like much of my clothing seemed juvenile, especially tees, so I would recommend you buy more shirts that straddle the line between casual and dressy. They can go both ways and are SO nice for a quick morning outfit.
Another thing that I just got this winter, (clearly this is for if you are in a COLDDD campus), is a floor length puffy coat. It’s not going to be pretty, but you’re going to love it. It feels like taking your comforter to class. It’s fabulous.
This is essentially my wardrobe…plus or minus 10 pairs of flats, but hey, they layer well with tights.
daniela
You should also stock up on some cute jewelry for college, check out J Weber Jewelry- they’ve got some great stuff!
Poetry&Dogs
What colors besides orchid, black opaque, and brown-black tights can i wear going back to college, so that i look older than tweeny or teenagey? I am very petite (4′ 11″), so i have trouble a lot, almost no matter how grown-up i try to dress. I also would like to know about: denim mini skirts (not too short), solid vs. patterned pencil skirts, jewelry that looks old enough but still like me. My favorite colors are reds, robin’s egg blue (sort of teal-ish blue), red-orange, soft yellows, raspberry red, and white. Also, are black or smokey gray pencil skirts in style this year (i don’t have any pencil skirts in those colors but i’d like one or two, If they’re trendy now)? I love your site so far!
Poetry&Dogs
I forgot to mention that i also really love dark greens and almost any purple. Are they ok to wear in jewelry, shoes, purses, and clothes? I’d love to wear purples on anything but pants or jeans (but dark greens on everything, i think).
Ciera
Hey! I just found this site and it is AMAZING! Anyway, I kind of had a question for anyone reading…
I wear a size 10 shoe and it is EXTREMELY hard to find cute shoes in my size that look good! The flats make my feet look like clown feet, and I’m pretty tall (5′8″), so if I wear heels, I tower over people! Not to mention, they’re uncomfortable to wear everyday. Does anyone have any suggestions for me?! Thanks! :)
Gina
Ciera,
I knew a girl in my class that had this same issue with her shoe size. She overcame it by wearing a lot of low heeled shoes with straps or open toes and always having a perfect pedicure.
Also, the detailing on a shoe can help to define your foot better. Wearing a pair of simple ballet flats vs. ballet flats that flash a little toe and have some detailing with will be very different.
Barefoot Tess has some cute (albeit a bit expensive) shoes made specifically for larger sizes, and most retailers have online sites that offer a greater variety of sizes.
Hopefully that helps some!
Tina
Ciera i wear a size 12 1/2 shoe and i am 5′11 i am about to go off to school as a sophmore and i can normally find cute flats and heels at payless.com in my size, but i cant ever find them in the store but i know online goes up to a 13 women. I genenerally stick with flats, but that is because my campus is small so everyone walks everywhere so i were to walk from my dorm to food it would be a good quarter mile so i wouldnt want heels, but dont be afraid to be the tall one! its fun:) hope that helps :)
Christina
Ciera,
Wow! As a not-so-fashion-oriented-college-sophomore, your article has really helped me with choosing what to look for in stores… to build my wardrobe like a pro. I enjoy wearing feminine clothing, and sweaty workout clothes, too, but before I came across this article I was afraid to branch out with style even a little bit. I would wear the “safe” outfits that my mom helped me put together back in high school and not use my creative juices when dressing every day. So, long story short, thank you for your advice!
Christina
jessica
hey! thank you so much for your help. I am going to begin my first year at junior college, and now with this site I know what to have in the wardrobe and not have a problem in the morning of what to wear. Thanks a lot for your help. Btw if you have a newsletter could you tell me pls so I can sign up, because this site is very cool and helpful,Thanks for everything
Marrin Costello
I think this blog is fabulous. I think that this could be the beginning to “the College Woman’s Bible… of Fashionable Essentials.” I can’t wait to update my college wardrobe for this fall!
A couple things that I would add to the essentials list would be a pair of embellished sandals (i.e. ‘flip-flops’ if you will) and simple accessories. Whether it be a thin chain necklace with a simple charm, a few beaded bracelets, or a watch that ‘goes with every outfit,’ accessories really help tie together ANY outfit and set your fashion identity apart from your peers.
I LOVE this article, and am excited to pass it along to my friends at school. Thanks a bunch!
Holy Knight
For me, a college girl should not be so over-dressed up.
So that “Classic Dress section” of the post is good enough.
Ali
I love this article, I saw this just in time for my shopping trip on friday!
i sometimes order clothes from this website pinkice.com, its cute and affordable :]
Andrea
I completely agree with this list!
Baggy sweatpants are never OK in public…unless you REALLY don’t care if you look sloppy/frumpy.
However, if you don’t feel comfortable wearing jeans or a dress/ skirt to class ALL the time and you want to be a little more “comfy” feeling, I suggest looking up:
Lululemon Athletica (www.lululemon.com)
Their sweats/yoga pants are totally comfortable and absolutely do not look sloppy or frumpy…they make your butt look amazing and you can take them straight from lounging around the house to class – just top them with a cute hoodie (not a big baggy one!) or a tanktop & cardigan… or a cute Tshirt!
I can;t live without my lululemons.. honestly.. they are aaaaamaaaazing! Every girl needs at least one pair.
Sarah
We can’t afford cashmere, but we can afford brands like Coach, Juicy Couture, and Marc Jacobs? How does that make even sense? You were doing fine with the H&M and Gap, but come on. Those Juicy Couture boots cost almost as much at my text books did this semester.
Zephyr
Sarah – The boots were just an example of a cute pair of snow boots, not something you have to buy or else. I’m not telling you what you can or can’t afford. If you want to find some more budget-friendly snow boots, I actually just wrote an article about that: http://www.collegefashion.net/shopping/cute-winter-boots-for-any-budget/ . Again, those boots were just an example. Calm down.
Amy
i love original wellie rainboots you can find them at freepeople.com and jcrew or any other shoe website. they have tons of styles and colors!
Megan
Man, I wish I had read this last year. :) I’ve managed to get my wardrobe up to pretty much everything on the list though. Something I would suggest is to spend the most money on your jeans, the right fit and cut are everything. If you get a good pair they will last you YEARS. Find cute shoes on sale at places like TJ Maxx or Ross, they might be last season or even three seasons ago but they’re still cute and very cheap. I would say spend less on tops unless it’s a classic type of top because those trends come and go. Old Navy has some great cheap classic type tops though, and they come in lots of colors. Target’s clothes are also great because they are very fashion forward but easy on the wallet. Also, every college girl needs plenty of storage! It is the most important thing I learned living in the dorms. Those spaces are small and you will want to keep everything organized!!
M.ae
Thank you so much! That was very helpful.
It was nice to find out that I only have a few things I need to make my essential wardrobe complete! :D
Thanks,
M.ae
M.ae
Oh!
Would it be possible for you to either make an entry, or just respond here, to a question I have?
Where are some stores that I can find INEXPENSIVE winter coats (such as pea coats) and also spring/fall jackets?
Thanks bunches.
Kellyg
Wow. This list is three times the clothes I have. Aren’t these essentials to every woman’s closet? And how do you keep all of these clothes organized?
Heather
M.ae, here are a few places where you can find cute, affordable coats:
old navy
aeropostale
gap
forever21 (check their fabulous finds)
american eagle
M.ae
Okay. Thank you, Heather. :D
Erin
A pair of cute, yet simple flannel pajamas. Seriously. Dorms get coldddd!
kelly
I agree that sweatpants shouldn’t be worn to class. I would like to have a few more pants to wear than just jeans in different washes. What are some other type of pants you can wear to class that aren’t sweat pants but aren’t your usual blue wash jeans?
Also, what should my price ranges be for the 4-5 jeans and my pair of splurge jeans?
kelly
Also, the opaque tights… I like the idea but I have no clue how to wear them! Do you have a post on how to wear them or can you put one up? I have a feeling they are going to be around for a while and I like the look, but I don’t know what to wear them with! What kind of shirt? What length? Layered with what? What kind of shoes go with them? etc.
Monique
I think this was a really positive piece. The tips are universal and everyone can take something from this. I know I’m making notes for when I start college again on monday. Fashion is all inclusive, not exclusive, and there are NO rules, just look good, feel comfortable and have the confidence to wear it. Others can judge but its fun to make the choice not to follow trends but make them your own. So when I want sales shopping, I picked what was right for me, and now with this, I know how to accentuate what I like best ( my legs, my boobs and my bum!!! :D)
xx
apple
well this was very helpful but you know it can get really cold here in calfornia you know we do have a “winter”.especially when it rains.so coats are very warm and helpful not to metion stylish.and everybody wears boots in calfornia in our”winters”.it doesnt snow but it gets pretty cold here..!!just sayin.thanks for this.
Brittain
This article is so true! I am a college junior and it took me a while to figure out that I needed most of these things in my wardrobe. The one question I have though. Are there any tights that do not leave that awkward like around your waist? I love tights and wear them often but under some of my more form fitting shirts the tights show.
Lolz
I love this website!!!!! i start college on monday and im really excited to apply some of the tips from this site :)
time for a bit of shopping i think…
thanks
x
Katie
another “nice to have”- HEADBANDS!! plain ones are quite cheap and pull an outfit together when color coordinated. decorated ones are slightly more expensive but really look awesome. looove headbands :)
trickie
Gee thanks for being a stereotypical stuck up snob I’m pretty sure I can’t conform with any of your tips for various reasons ranging from fluctuating weight (oh right I must be fat so officially a social leper anyway), lack of funds (I’m disabled and can’t work..this is true not a snide remark) as a result of said disability all shoes mentioned are immediately impossible dure to different sized feet leg length discepency and balance issues. Again though as your post suggests anyone who is not a carbon copy cutout of everyone else varying only in the colour of their shoes and sweaters is doomed to failure individuality obviously cannot be allowed and yet I have worn the same pair of pants to class basically every day this semester and still haven’t lost any friends and have in fact managed to strike up a few new aquaintances.
delta
i’m a freshman in high school.. but i don’t even think that matters, i love this. i would have to add sperrys though. the girl above me just needs to chill out.. she’s not saying that everyone should dress the same.
nagham
trickie i dont think these posts arement to be stareotypical…they are just ment to be helpful…they are not telling u what kind of person u need to be….there is nothing wrong with taking in ideas (thats not conforming) and cater them to ur body….obviously not everybody that reads this looks the same and has the same attitude and body shape…the point is to take the tips and tweek them to fit you
missmerry
Definitely agree w/ nagham on this one. Almost all of the essentials truly are essentials. Body type or personal fashion style doesn’t really matter. I’ve gone through different weights and even different styles (from preppy to skater to goth and back), and I have always owned jeans, cardigans, tank tops, and of course, underwear. I owned them when I was thin and I own them now. I am currently about 20 pounds overweight, and I have almost all of the things on this list. Although I plan to lose, not gain weight, I know that I would continue to buy these things even if I was 200 pounds overweight.
I’m also definitely NOT rich. Most college students (read: 99%) aren’t. But places like Target, Forever 21, Hot Topic, and even Walmart manage to sell cute inexpensive things.
I am with you, Trickle, though, with the disability thing. Due to several neurological problems (some mixed up wires up there, I guess) it’s really not comfortable for me to wear anything other than flip flops or sandals. It snowed today, and there I was in a pair of Old Navy flip flops.
So yeah, fashion can be harder when you don’t have the perfect body or the ability to wear trendy shoes or loads of cash to drop on name brand designers. But it’s not impossible. (So quit your whinin’!)
kaelani
There’s nothing wrong with wearing sweats to class!!! I rock VS pink sweat combos almost everyday and I look damn good doin it. Just because they’re called sweats doesn’t mean they are baggy, cheap, or that I am lazy. It takes me just as long to pick out my comfy outfits as it does to put together a jeans/peacoat ensemble.
I understand this isn’t something everyone would be comfortable doing, but it’s messed up to say you should think long and hard about EVER wearing sweats in public. Really?! Unless you are in a sorority that doesn’t allow sweats to class then there is no sane reason not to wear some! be comfortable and be comfortable WITH YOURSELF!!
Calli
These are a good idea if you want to look like every other girl on your campus. Experiment! Try something different and unique!
Rhonda
Nice suggestions. Just to let you know, I live in California and I have 3 feet of snow right outside my door. So, we have “real” winters here. It’s not like the movies.
H
I go to a private high school where we are not allowed to wear blue denim, or sweats. Every girl supplements this by wearing simple yet cute dresses, colored denim, navy and tan khaki’s, and of course lulu lemons. I saw someone mentioned them, and they are GREAT. Check them out!
Believe me, when those pants are paired with a cute t or cardigan, we look good, but not too preppy.
Katelyn
Great job on this list! I will definetly use this as a guide when planning my college wardrobe. I love your website.
Jacki
Thought I’d just tell you that I linked you on my newest post; I wrote about my personal wardrobe essentials! Some suggestions/comments would be great :)
Thanks, and I absolutely love your CF blog!
Cheers x
N
I’ve been considering Spax for a while. Could you do an article on spanx and how it works and which shapes you would reccomend or which shape is the most versatile must have. That would be great. LOVE the blog :)
Alexandra
Thank you so much for this article! It was so helpful…I am in my last year of high school (in England) and soon to go off to university so I found it at the perfect time. =D I am so glad to have found your blog, it looks like a great site from what I have seen so far.
I plan to print out this article and take it with me for when I am shopping for clothes for university and basics etc! Totally agree about the well-fitting underwear, and the summer skirts are a must for me too. Although we don’t have much of a summer around here!
Thanks again :)
megs
this is good for younger girls as well maybe high school age, because it gives us an idea of what we really need to wear that is comfortable (not necessarily the heels).
Molly
Yeah, 4-5 pairs of jeans sounds about right…I mean, in a perfect world, you’d have a whole trunk full, but 4-5 is enough to survive with! And I agree about avoiding stuff that is too trendy. Regular jeans aren’t going out of style any time soon!
Amy
In relation to cardigans, it helps to avoid buying any that have acrylic in them- it’s prone to bobbling!
valerie
This article is spot on with everything you need for college! I’m a senior in college and I’m always looking for classic pieces like these to wear to class. I also have a lot of great buys on my site at Beauty and the Budget!
tori
omgosh i love it ! i have basically all of those things, but i live in england and you know what, it is SO HARD to find a good pair of jeans! all you get is high street fashion, so like topshop etc, and all they stock is what ever is in at the moment, no classic styles tehre! apart from gap, but gap jeans dont tend to fit me so well. also, you can get abercrombie (all the way in london..) but the exchange rate means your paying almost twice the dollar pricef or them! its very sad haha, but american eagle do GREAT jeans, i am getting my aunt to bring a load over, hopefully that will help me next year ! sorrry that this turned into such a ridiculously long post… love your website though, and iwish fashion in england was more like htis ! i love the casual look :)
nicole
i totally agree with your list, but you definitely forgot yoga pants and t shirts! not those ratty tshirts you got from powder puff but something like the v neck american apparel tees. so versatile. and yoga pants are definitely a better alternative to sweatpants – they just look nicer
marissa
Good list. Problem: Would like to find a place to buy matching sweats (yoga pants and hoodies) in a selection of colors for under $100.00 a set. As it is now, have to find yoga pants and then go on a separate hoodie quest to match the foldover colors on the yoga pants.
Any suggestions? Plain sweat suits tend to bag– liking the yoga pants. And not willing to spend for Juicy, etc.
Thanks.PS- : buy a travel jewlery container and the right kind of luggage can work for you besides moving in.
kels
so i love your site and was browsing online for similar ones and i found THIS. i was reading a post on this blog and recognized the text as being the exact same as on this particular article. is it plagerism? are you aware that this site exists? maybe its your old one or something?
http://collegefashionstyles.blogspot.com/2009/01/college-fashion-dress.html
Zephyr
Kels – Thanks for reminding me of that! I’d seen that website before but hadn’t gotten around to sending them a copyright infringement notice. I filed a DMCA notice with Google and hopefully they’ll take care of it! Thanks for letting me know :)
Shelbie
Thanks so much for this article! I’m starting college in North Carolina in the fall, all the way across the country from my family in Phoenix. As if out of state tuition wasn’t enough, now I have to deal with paying for all my own essentials on a tight budget.
But this article really bailed me out (I hadn’t even thought of snow boots!). Now I’m sure to have a cute, flexible wardrobe that fits my lifestyle… and my budget. (:
Thanks again for all the great ideas.
Bruce
This Article is Great and I think it is definitely welcome by most of the College Girls
Devyn Karyn
Loongg time vistor, first comment…
I know this was published forever ago, but I found it about halfway through my Junior year of high school (so like, January 2008) and have since then been gradually putting together a wardrobe for when I start college on August 31, 2009, so in like 2 monthes. I was just looking at it again to see if I hadn’t thought of anything, and wanted to thank you for the sheer awesomeness of this post and of this whole website! Oh, and Zephyr is a MUCH cooler name =D Anyway, it would be really awesome if there was an updated version or this, for someone that didn’t want to read over 100 comments, like with sneakers and stuff, but I guess you did articles on all of that anyway. Alright Thanks! Great job!!
kathy
going into my 3rd year of college, i agree with this list!!
Lola
Every college girl should invest in a cute pair of nighties, you never know when a the emergency assembly siren will be rung…
Amy
Great article, I’ll pass this along to my girls.
naomi
I won’t be starting college for a few years casue I’m still at high school in scotland but I still thought this post was amazing,I want to just throw all my stuff out and just buy everything on this list.I won’t though (:thanks for another amazing post.
Venus
This is a great list; it’s not too spartan and doesn’t include all those extra things like trenchcoats and ‘one pair of sturdy brown shoes’ that you get on lists clearly written by prudish parents!! The clothes suggested here are practical and cute because they’re decent, simple and adaptable to any budget, body shape and personal style. You can easily interpret these staples to make your college/university wardrobe your own – although I agree with the previous post lamenting the lack of decent jeans in England! The high street only stocks the latest transient ‘fashion’ styles, no classic, good quality jeans. You really do have to travel to get the decent ones, and they’re all super expensive! In fact you’d be realy hard-pushed to find non-skinny jeans in most of the shops in my town. It’s all the teenage fashionistas want, so it’s all they stock.
Most of the girls at my school (independant high school for girls – the lower years are full of Jack Wills and A&F clones with an overdose of pashminas and ‘jeggings’) could learn a lot about simple classic style and making an impact from this list. Somebody should tell them that it’s class, not the front page of LOOK magazine, that turns heads. Love this site! :-)
Sam
LOVE the post. Could you talk more about the Classic Dress that you mentioned as a necessity. I looked in your archives but only found articles on seasonal fun dresses. Could you do a post on investment/classic dresses like the one you imagined would be in every girls wardrobe in this article? I’m not sure what to look for.
Thanks!
Rachel
This is so informative and I am about to be a senior at UT. I think I have all that you put on the list and not much more. Well I do practically live in my nike shorts and t shirts though cause they are comfy and I work out between classes. I think the only thing I would add to the list is not actually a piece of clothing but I found the a really soft and absorbant towel has come on great use. Oh also great walking shoes that won’t destroy your feet.
Chynna
WOW!! I LOVEEEEEEE this website!! It really helped me, specially the page where it tells you what to wear to a college class. I will have no problem shopping this fall, I’m still gonna look good and I don’t care what people will say :)
Andrea Butchko
perfect!! just what i needed as i’m packing for school. one thing that i swear by as my go-to-class outfit are leggins. pairing these with a long shirt, short casual dress, or readjusted oversized t-shirt looks chic enough to maintain my fashion style but is also easy and casual enough to wear everyday. so many possibilities!!!
Angie M
This is a great list of stuff. These are all things I wear on a regular basis and would tell new college students to bring. Excellent job.
Leah
Oh, as for rain boots… I got an awesome Coach pair on sale. (still expensive, but not as horrible as full price) They’re uber-cute. Try Urban Outfitters or Delia’s, too. They have some good deals.
Miss Incognegro
This is a thoughtful, well-written article. Although I am well-past the college scene, I would have appreciated a similar piece for when I was heading off to college. Mad props to you!
Miss Incognegro
A word re: Spanx: They’re not just for fat girls. :) I’ve seen PLENTY of skinny girls with lumps and bumps, and who really needed some smoothing down. So, FYI: Just because one is skinny, doesn’t mean everything lays the way it should.
Vinita
Thanx alot…this info. was very useful……pls also lemme know…wad should a petite girl wear…..which is in fashion…i wanna be trendy….wanna have a makeover…..
Vianna
I truly love this I have this page bookmark because I really enjoy reading these pages espacially because there so entertaning.Thank so much for posting this this was really helpful. -xoxo Vianna
parul
hi there
thanx a ton for your amazing advice on wardrobe…i have been wastin my money since childhood on clothes bu counldt understand wat i wanted…thanx alot for this>>>..
Suzie Q
I think that you guys all need a better fashion sense. Who just sticks to jeans and tank tops and cardigans. Are you kidding me. This is a fashion site. Girls mix and match everything in your wardrobe. Get that nice Forever 21 or express top and put it with a nice pair of dark wash jeans and look classy without even trying. Tank tops and cardigans are for girls who don’t care. That is my rainy day outfit. Ha, give you better advice if you want to get these girls noticed.
Sneha maji
ur this site awesome n had guide me n gives me many useful information.. luvly site….
The Trendy Fashionista!
Thank you for the tips! They are awsome.
-The Trendy Fashionista
http://thetrendyfashionista.blogspot.com
Sara
Rain boots are absolutely ESSENTIAL if you are attending an older college with uneven brick pathways, because, trust me, those slight warps and dents down all the paths FILL with giant POOLS of water when it rains, and then you’re stuck fording a river in your jeans and flats and getting soaked to the knee if you’re not wearing boots.
Ashley
LOVE LOVE LOVE this site! I’m a senior in college and I’ve just entered my “pre-professional” track as a student teacher. After reading this site, my students think I’m a pretty cool gal.
I love getting my jeans at The Buckle. They have sizes that go waist by inseam … perfect for my awkward 31.5 inch inseam! :)
Monica
I am thankful for your great list… but I think it is limited to those going to college near their homes. I am going 8 hours from my home and I will not be able to come home as often to add or exchange clothes with my closet. Should I double the amount of clothes you listed?
Ashley
To Monica:
Just do laundry! :)
Mallory
I love this post! Especially since I’m a high school senior with a uniform. Hence, my wardrobe does not consist of much :(
I’ve always had trouble finding the right jeans or dress pants, because I’m so small.
Most size 0s are too big for me
The same applies to shoes.
I’m just below a size 5
Enough complaining…I’m going to do some shopping :)
I visit this site everyday. They’re always so much great advice.
Ambergina
I love this! I think this is completely true! I am just a freshman in high school, but I think I have everything on that list, and alot of the people at my school dress that way to (mostly upper-classman, however). Some great additions, in my opinion is flip flops, if your in a dorm, they make great shower shoes. Accesories, simple necklaces, big earings, hats, scarves, gloves, bracelets, rings, they can completely change a simple outfit.
Also, while you have that one great sturdy bag, which is a must, you might want a cute clutch too, for when you dont want to carry a bulky bag.
And one last thing, well is doesn’t exactly fit into the clothing category. Maybe some febreze, to freshan up your clothes. I don’t wash my clothes after every time I wear them, unless I get something on them. Because, one I do’t have time for that. And two, it wears them out faster and I want my clothes to last.
Again, I loved the post :))
Elena
Just to give you an option on rain boots, I just got a pair from Zappos that are AMAZING! They look amazing and they do the job. They are Kamik and are made in Canada. I got the Ellie style in black, but if I had the money to splurge more, I’d get the red ones. Sooooo awsome. And they aren’t all bulky and heavy so they give your feet and legs a feminie look still.
aish
this is my fav post
i keep looking at when i go shopping now
i headed 4 australia net yr feb
got to gt myself ready
thanx
Amanda
Sperry topsider carries a lot of great quality really cute rain boots. They all come lined in a very soft felt like material, and they even have a version that looks like flats. Their only downside is that they only come in whole sizes.
shina
I’m off to college in march.
and I didn’t know where to start first.
but now I know. thanks to you!
thank you so much~^^
this is so helpful!
Hey
Hey. This is awesome. I’m still a junior at high school, but this is great for my wardrobe even now. I absolutely love this article. It’s the most helpful one anywhere. Thanks so much for writing it!!! I think you should add a pair of sneakers from payless. Also some long sleeved tees. They’re great for layering. I’m in CA, but it’s getting pretty cold. I’m wearing them, and most people around here are, too. Something in bright colors ’cause it’s so dreary with the rains. Thanks again for the awesome article!!!! Love it SOOOOOOOOOOO much!!!!!!!!!!!
Anita Leroy
Nice list!!! It is on my favourite list!
Thanks