When you’re in college, you’re really just starting to develop a wardrobe: a closet full of clothes that will not only last you your four years of college, but soon after when you enter the “real world.” We all want to keep up with the trends, but at the same time, you want clothes that won’t be out of fashion as soon as the next season comes around. You’ve heard that diamond studs and trench coats are essential, but let’s get real, college girls just don’t dress that way in real life. So, here’s what collegiettes at UF believe to be the definite guide to what every college girl should have in her wardrobe.
Jeans That Fit Well
Jeans (not leggings!) are the basics of a college girl’s closet. In order to start a collection of good jeans, find a brand of denim that fits you well. Once you find your perfect fit, stock up on different washes and various styles. These will be your go-to for nights out and the natural choice when you’re heading to class. Be careful when buying trendy styles, like high-wasted jeans or wide-leg jeans, because you’ll have to buy new jeans next season or risk looking outdated.
A Classic Dress
Dresses are so easy! Think about it. It’s pretty much an entire outfit in one easy piece. Many recommend having a “little black dress,” and of course, those are very essential for the chic and classic fashionista; however, if a dress fits you well and doesn’t look like a club dress, it doesn’t need to be black. You’re probably thinking that LBDs will be useless because you won’t be attending any cocktail parties, but you’ll love having it in your closet for unexpected events as well as dresses in a color that flatters your skin tone.
Basic Tank Tops
Investing in a few tank tops of varying lengths and basic colors like black, white, grey and navy will go a long, long way. Not only can you use these alone in summer, but tanks are perfect for layering under cardigans, jackets and long-sleeved tops in winter.
Cardigans
Pick up some basic cotton (or cashmere if you have the time and money for frequent trips to the dry cleaners) 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. Black, brown/beige, white, grey and navy are good colors for basic cardigans but buy at least one in a color like teal, pink or purple to sneak in a burst of color to any outfit.
Bras & Panties
Forget about everything else on this list. If you don’t have a few good pairs of panties and your ultimate favorite bra, drop everything now. 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. The same goes for panties. VPLs anyone? It is vital to spend the time and money shopping for good quality, well-fitting undergarments that won’t pinch, bulge, or show under your clothes.
Dressy Tops
Satin, lace, bright-colors and tops with cute prints are all good ideas to have in your closet. You could wear a dressy top under a jacket or by itself with jeans and heels to a party. You should also include a couple of oxford shirts. Black and white are probably the two you’d use the most.
A Jacket and a Coat
A nice fitted jacket that’ll get you through rainy days is definitely worth the investment. But make sure it’s completely what you want, down to the color and cut. Don’t settle for something that doesn’t fit just right. As for coats, you’ll be happy you can reach into you closet and pull out a fuzzy and warm one on cold winter days.
Of course, this is just our opinion on what we think every collegiette should have in her closet while at school. It really comes down to having what you need, what you know you’re going to use and what will last you a long time. If you can honestly say that about each item in your closet, well, seems like you’ve got it figured out!