When we were in middle school, we were so hyped to wear our new Lizzie McGuire T-shirts from Limited Too on the first day of class. Now, it’s a bit more difficult to figure out what to wear as we start a new semester. We want to look fab, but it can be so tempting to just give up and turn to our beloved sweatpants.
Comfort is everything when it comes to campus fashion, but your inner fashionista might be craving a change. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite outfits that will have you ready to slay, without worrying about high heels or body-con anything.
1. Band or graphic tee
Since the weather will still be warm by the time we enter our first classroom of the semester, wearing a casual t-shirt to class is perfectly acceptable. Choose one that stands out or represents your fave band or artists.
To keep the look comfortable and casual, pair it with your favorite pair of slip-on sandals or mules. You’ll look put-together without being *too* dressed up.
2. Black Leggings
Every college student needs black leggings (it’s a total wardrobe staple) — and there is no better time to rock yours than on the first day of class. Just like a supportive friend, they make you happy and they’re always there when you need them.
To keep the look simple with a little bit of flair, pair your leggings with a black and white striped top and a delicate necklace. For comfort all the way down to your toes, finish the look with a pair of comfy yet stylish sneakers, which will pull the rest of the look together perfectly.
3. Mom jeans
Jeans might have been seen as too casual at your internship, but on campus, they tend to lean on the dressier side (especially compared to the leggings counterpart). If you find that you’re down to wear jeans on the first day of class, opt for a pair of mom jeans, which exude chic and are not nearly as binding as your fave skinnies.
For a ~lived-in vibe~, reach for a distressed pair and plan the rest of your outfit accordingly, letting your pants steal the show. A basic scoop neck tee works perfectly with the texture of the jeans, and leaves room for a simple necklace. Don’t forget the shoes! We recommend pairing this ensemble with a pair of metallic Birkenstocks for a comfy yet edgy look.
4. High waist shorts
We know saying goodbye to summer break is hard, so make sure you wear your favorite pair of shorts a few more times before you put them away for the fall. Denim shorts are so versatile, so feel free to get creative.
For an athletic twist, pair them with a cropped baseball tee and a pair of colorful sneakers. It’s definitely a casual look, so you’ll feel comfortable just being yourself as you reunite with all of your campus friends on your way to class.
5. Fashionable joggers
The best part about patterned jogger pants is that they are just as comfy as your favorite baggy sweats, without actually being sweatpants. It’s definitely the best of both worlds! Opt for a statement-making printed pair, and wear it with a solid black top; we love the idea of sporting this cropped tank. Keep the comfort going all the way down to your toes with a pair of espadrilles, which are basically slippers you can wear in public, making it feel like you never changed out of your loungewear once you’re taking notes during your morning lecture.
No matter what you wear on your first day of class, we know you’ll rock it! As long as you’re comfortable in your outfit of choice, you’ll be able to take on the semester by storm, and these outfits prove that cozy and chic can come together in harmony.