Entering the college scene can be a daunting task: new people, difficult classes, and no more home-cooked meals. But thanks to the Her Campus Duke staff, ensuring you have all your college fashion essentials no longer needs to be a cause for concern! These Duke staples will guarantee you are (aesthetically) prepared for the toughest curve balls college life can throw you.
1. Rain Gear – I put this first on the list for a reason; it’s far more important than you would expect. It rains at Duke and something about the way our beautiful campus is configured results in the formation of numerous small rivers throughout campus. Pack rainboots! They can be cute and incredibly helpful when navigating the sea-world of Duke on a rainy day. I personally sport a bright yellow pair (think Singing in the Rain), but girl’s boots range from bright patterns to subtle hues.
Every cute pair of rainboots needs an accompanying jacket / umbrella. So be sure to bring a rain jacket or umbrella along to keep the rest of you dry.
2. Comfortable Wedges – As an almost midget-sized girl who avoids heels at all costs, I have become a true believer in the power of comfortable (yet cute, duh) wedges. Many Duke evening outings are spent dancing. Sometimes/always on elevated surfaces. In order to fully enjoy your night out, you need to be comfortable! A stylish pair of wedges allows you to be comfortable without sacrificing height or style.Â
3. Skinny Jeans – I consider skinny jeans a Duke essential because they can be played down for a casual day on campus, or up for a night out. Skinny jeans paired with a pair of boots or sandals can be a great outfit for class or dinner with a friend, but throw a pair of heels on with them and you have instant party attire!
4. Lightweight Jacket – North Carolina weather often consists of mild temperatures. The fall/spring seasons are too warm for a winter jacket. As a result, I suggest bringing a lightweight jacket for Duke’s seasonally confused days.
 5. Formal Dress – Every girl should have a formal dress stashed away in her undersized dorm closet. Whether it’s the Homecoming dance or a date function, you will always find a need for a nice dress. I suggest a basic dress (think LBD). You can vary the accessories and shoes to adjust for multiple events. Yes, you can re-wear a dress. Nobody is going to notice.
6. Sweatpants – The fashionistas of the world may be pulling their hair out at this suggestion, but I think it’s necessary. Sweatpants. We all live in them, it’s time to start admitting it. Go out and splurge on the comfiest pair of sweatpants you can find. Whether it’s an evening of relaxation after a tough exam, or a rough hungover Sunday morning, you will always appreciate a good pair of sweats.
7. Duke T-shirt – Last, but certainly not least: the classic Duke t-shirt. Duke’s school spirit is one of the university’s most attractive qualities. A Duke shirt will serve you well on the many occasions you find yourself showing that blue devil pride. I’m going to go out on a limb here and assume many of you went ahead and decked yourselves out in Duke blue immediately upon hearing of your acceptance. But, just in case…
These items provide a solid foundation to the college wardrobe. Now, go ahead and make them your own! See you on campus, good-lookin’.
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