As someone who loves shopping and buying new pieces for my closet, cutting down my wardrobe is difficult when it comes time to pack up for school. If I’ve learned anything from my three-and-a-half semesters in college, you’re not going to need as much as you think you are. If you bring too many clothes it can get frustrating because they just sit in your room and take up a lot of your already minimal space. To help you out, here are some staple clothing items that you absolutely need—and none that you don’t—for your college wardrobe.
- A Good Pair of Jeans
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You’re going to want to bring at least four pairs of jeans that fit you well to keep in your college wardrobe. My go-to is a pair of black skinny jeans for a night out, but I recommend that you bring whatever cut and color that you feel most comfortable in. My favorite brands to buy some sturdy yet affordable jeans are Abercrombie & Fitch and Revice Denim.
- Leggings, Upon Leggings, Upon Leggings
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There are very few days out of the semester when you will not see me wearing leggings to class. Though my job as a Zumba instructor demands that I keep my closet stocked with leggings, I definitely wear my leggings for more than just getting my sweat on. As a lazy girl at heart, leggings are my school uniform. You can expect me to pair them with a sweatshirt for class when I’m rushing out the door; or if I wake up a little earlier in the morning I’ll pair my leggings with a sweater and booties. Although Lululemon will always be my favorite, for affordable alternatives I recommend Aerie or Gap.
- Hoodies
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This wouldn’t be a college wardrobe post if I didn’t include sweatshirts. Like I said before, I will frequently pair a hoodie with leggings or joggers if I’m in a rush for class (spoiler alert: I’m always in a rush). Hoodies are truly a beautiful thing and I’m a firm believer that you can never have too many. Bonus points if you steal your boyfriend’s!
- Crop Tops
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Crop tops are a style umbrella that encompass a variety of designs. From basic to dressy, you can never go wrong with a good crop top—especially for a night out. Pair them with jeans for an easy going out outfit!
- Denim Jacket
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If you go to school in a colder environment, a denim jacket is a necessity. I would advise bringing two to college: one for class/everyday wear and another for nights out. The one that you wear to house parties and bars should be the cheaper of the two because the amount of times that it will get spilled on or lost will surprise you. Forever 21 is perfect for the cheaper side. I would also highly recommend my Levi’s sherpa-lined denim jacket for an investment that you will not regret.
- Sneakers
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It should go without saying that sneakers should be included in your college wardrobe. Once again, opt for two pairs: one for everyday/going to class and another for parties that you’re ok with trashing. I wear my Nike Air Force One sneakers to class and platform Supergas when I go out.
This list is definitely not all-encompassing; but hopefully, it gives you a general idea of some of the staple items that you should bring to college. Or if you’re already in college, then an idea of how to cut down your wardrobe to maximize space. Buying new clothes is always fun, but it can be much more rewarding to piece together items you already own in a new, fun and stylish way.